Child Development Associate (CDA) Certification

What is a CDA?

The Child Development Associate® (CDA) Credential™ is the most widely recognized credential in early childhood education. It's a great way to advance your career in early childhood education. The CDA® is based on a core set of competency standards set by the Council for Professional Recognition guide early childhood professionals toward becoming qualified educators of young children.

Our CDA Pathway walks you step by step through the process so you are well prepared to earn your CDA Certificate.

Who issues the CDA credential?

The Child Development Associate (CDA) credential is awarded by the CDA Council, an independent organization.

Procare Professional Development does not issue the CDA credential but provides training courses that help fulfill the 120-hour education requirement needed to earn the CDA.

Earn your CDA

How long does it take to earn a CDA?

The timeline is flexible and depends on your schedule. Our self-paced courses let you work at your own speed.

Example: If you dedicate around 5 hours per week, you can complete the 120 training hours in about 6 months.

You have up to 3 years to finish all the steps required to earn your credential. Our CDA Pathway tells you which courses to take so you meet all the requirements.

How long is a CDA valid?

A CDA credential is valid for 3 years from the date it's awarded.

To renew, you’ll need to show proof of continued professional development. The CDA Council website provides full details on the renewal process.

What is the CDA verification visit and CDA exam?

The CDA verification visit is a required step in earning your credential. During this visit, a Professional Development (PD) Specialist from the CDA Council will:

• Review your professional portfolio
• Observe your interactions with children
• Hold a reflective conversation with you about your teaching approach

Following the verification visit, you will need to take the CDA exam to complete the certification process.

CDA-Related Expenses

The CDA pathway coursework and portfolio support is included in your Procare Professional Development Membership.

Note: The full cost to get a CDA varies. Alternative funding sources and scholarships are available. See: CDA Scholarship Information

Do I need to buy the CDA Competency Standards book?

Yes. All CDA applicants must purchase the CDA Competency Standards book. It’s available:

• In English or Spanish
• For different age groups (Preschool, Infant/Toddler, etc.)

You can order the book from the CDA Council's online shop.

How much does the CDA Assessment cost?

There is an initial fee to apply for the CDA credential, as well as a separate renewal fee. Both are payable directly to the CDA Council.

For the most up-to-date pricing and details, visit the CDA Council’s Fees page.

CDA Renewal

How do I renew my CDA?

We offer the required 45 hours of training needed to renew your CDA Credential.

You can begin the renewal process up to 6 months before your credential expires, but your application must be submitted before the expiration date to avoid starting over.

What are the CDA renewal requirements?

To renew your CDA Credential, you must:

• Complete 45 hours of training in your focus area
• Be a current member of an early childhood professional organization
• Complete 80 hours of work with children within 12 months of applying
• Hold a valid First Aid and Pediatric (Infant & Child) CPR certification

The CDA Council’s renewal guide outlines the documentation and steps required.

Where can I find more information?

Here are helpful links to get started or learn more:

• Earn Your CDA Credential
• Renew Your CDA Credential
• CDA Council – Renew CDA
• Free CDA Renewal Procedures Guide
• CDA Scholarship Information
• Applying for your CDA FAQS