Pathway I:
1. Current DANB CDA certification, AND
2. Verification of knowledge- or performance-based competency in each of the three CPFDA functions. Each function must be verified individually through one of the following options. The documentation must indicate that the expanded functions/duties or preventive functions/duties were included in the course curriculum.
• Successful completion of a course on the CPFDA functions offered by or within a CODA-accredited dental assisting, dental hygiene or dental program, or
• Successful completion of a state dental board-approved course on the CPFDA functions, or
• Dentist verification of knowledge or performance of the CPFDA function, AND
3. Current hands-on CPR, BLS or ACLS from a DANB-accepted provider
Pathway II:
1. Graduation from a CODA-accredited dental assisting, dental hygiene or dental program, AND
2. Verification of knowledge- or performance-based competency in each of the three CPFDA functions. Each function must be verified individually through one of the following options. The documentation must indicate that expanded functions/duties or preventive functions/duties were included in the course curriculum.
• Successful completion of a course on the CPFDA functions offered by or within a CODA-accredited dental assisting, dental hygiene or dental program, or
• Successful completion of a state dental board-approved course on the CPFDA functions, or
• Dentist verification of knowledge or performance of the CPFDA function, AND
3. Current hands-on CPR, BLS or ACLS from a DANB-accepted provider
Pathway III:
1. Former DANB CDA whose certification lapsed no more than two years ago, AND
2. Minimum of 3,500 hours work experience as a dental assistant, accrued over the previous four years (employment must be verified by a licensed dentist), AND
3. Verification of knowledge- or performance-based competency in each of the three CPFDA functions. Each CPFDA function must be verified individually through one of the following options. The documentation must indicate that expanded functions/duties or preventive functions/duties were included in the course curriculum.
• Successful completion of a course on the CPFDA functions offered by or within a CODA-accredited dental assisting, dental hygiene or dental program, or
• Successful completion of a state dental board-approved course on the CPFDA functions, or
• Dentist verification of knowledge or performance of the CPFDA function, AND
4. Current hands-on CPR, BLS or ACLS from a DANB-accepted provider
Pathway IV:
1. Current Registered Dental Hygienist (RDH) license*, AND
2. Minimum of 3,500 hours work experience as a dental assistant, accrued over the previous four years (employment must be verified by a licensed dentist), AND
3. Current hands-on CPR, BLS or ACLS from a DANB-accepted provider
* If RDH license is issued in Alabama and the candidate is not a graduate of a CODA-accredited dental hygiene program, candidate must meet the requirements of Pathway I, II or III.
CPFDA Application Packet (PDF)