Apply for the CDA Credential

• Apply online for your CDA Credential using the YourCDA online application system or complete a paper application provided in the ​CDA Competency Standards Book.
• The non-refundable / non-transferable application fee must be submitted with your application.  Learn about CDA scholarships in your state. If you submit the application to the CDA Council online, the fee is $425, if you submit a paper application then the fee is $500.
• Once your CDA application has been reviewed and accepted you will receive a Ready to Schedule notification from the Council. 

CDA Credential Process

1. Step 1: 120 Hours of CDA Training
2. Step 2: Work Experience
3. Step 3: ​Professional Portfolio
4. Step 4: ​Apply for the CDA Credential
5. Step 5: ​Verification Visit & CDA Exam​

Refer to pages 19-22 in the CDA Competency Standards Book. ​

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