Certified Dental Assistant

Passing the Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) exam is a milestone achievement. Learn about the exam requirements, how to apply, how to prepare, and what to expect on exam day.
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Timeline & Requirements

TEST WINDOW

60 DAYS

TEST TIME

195 MINUTES

TEST QUESTIONS

245 QUESTIONS

Eligibility Requirements & Pathways

Pathway I

  • Graduation from a CODA-accredited dental assisting or dental hygiene program,
  • Current hands-on CPR, BLS or ACLS from a DANB-accepted provider

Pathway II

  • High school graduation or equivalent
  • Minimum of 3,500 hours of approved work experience
  • Current hands-on CPR, BLS or ACLS from a DANB-accepted provider

Pathway III

  • Former DANB CDA status, or graduation from or enrollment in a CODA-accredited DDS or DMD program, or graduation from a dental degree program outside the U.S. or Canada, or graduation from or enrollment in a post-baccalaureate program affiliated with a U.S. or Canadian dental school on DANB’s list of accepted post baccalaureate programs
  • Current hands-on CPR, BLS or ACLS from a DANB-accepted provider

Testing Options

Test Center

Read about what to expect when you take your exam in-person at a test center.

DALE Foundation Study Materials

CDA Exam Prep Bundle

This complete package includes all the practice tests and review courses for DANB’s CDA exam.

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CDA Practice Tests

Prepare for DANB’s CDA exam with all three practice tests together in one cost-saving package.

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Other Study Materials

See other practice test and review course options from the DALE Foundation.

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