How much does CDA certification cost?
How much does CDA certification cost?
$425 – $500 application cost
$125 – $150 renewal cost
$350 – $1,400 training program cost
Child Development Associate certification cost
Child Development Associate (CDA) certification costs $425 if you apply online or $500 if you submit a paper application. CDA renewal fees are $125 to $150 every three years. Approved CDA training programs that meet the 120-hour education requirement cost $350 to $1,400, depending on the type and format.
| Factor | Online | Paper |
|---|---|---|
| Application | $425 | $500 |
| Renewal | $125 | $150 |
CDA Assessment
The CDA Assessment involves an exam and a verification visit. The Council for Professional Recognition bases its credentialing decision on the results of both components.
CDA exam
The CDA exam features 65 questions that test the candidate's knowledge of basic early childhood best practices, including the six CDA Competency Standards and goals:
To establish and maintain a safe healthy learning environment
To advance physical and intellectual competence
To support social and emotional development and provide positive guidance
To establish positive and productive relationships with families
To ensure a well-run, purposeful program that is responsive to participant needs
To maintain a commitment to professionalism
The CDA exam is computer-based and is offered at Pearson VUE testing sites.
CDA Verification Visit
During the Verification Visit, a Council-approved, CDA Professional Development (PD) Specialist visits the candidate's place of work and observes the candidate working with children and families. The specialist also reviews the candidate's professional portfolio and conducts a reflective dialogue about the candidate's strengths and areas of growth.
CDA training & exam prep costs
To be eligible for CDA certification, you must complete 120 hours of formal early childhood education training. Several providers offer online training programs that meet this requirement, with costs ranging from $350 to $1,400.
Self-paced programs typically fall at the lower end of the price range, while programs at the higher end often include portfolio creation guidance and live chat sessions or conference calls.
The Council for Professional Recognition also sells study guides, workbooks, and CDA Competency Standards books for $28 to $55 each or bundled together in a Value Package for $107.
What is CDA certification?
The Child Development Associate (CDA) certification is a nationally recognized credential in early childhood education and validates the skills and knowledge needed for effectively working with young children.
The CDA is awarded by the Council for Professional Recognition and demonstrates that holders meet specific competency standards in childcare settings including preschools, home-based programs, and family childcare environments.
How do I get a CDA certificate?
To obtain a CDA certificate, you need to:
Submit an application and pay the associated fee to the Council for Professional Recognition.
Complete 120 hours of formal early childhood education training.
Gather 480 hours of professional experience working with children.
Create a professional portfolio of materials related to your work with children and families.
Pass the CDA exam.
Pass your Verification Visit and obtain a recommendation from a Professional Development Specialist.
How long does it take to get your CDA certificate?
Earning a CDA certificate takes 6 months to 1 year, depending on your existing experience and how quickly you complete the required components. If you're starting from scratch, you'll need time to acquire the 120 hours of training and 480 hours of professional experience.
After completing the requirements and submitting your application, the verification process generally takes about 2 to 3 months.
What jobs can you get with a CDA certification?
With a CDA certification, you can pursue several career paths in early childhood education. You can work as a preschool teacher in public or private settings, including Head Start programs. Daycare centers hire CDA holders as lead or assistant teachers, while elementary schools employ them as teacher's aides in early grades.
Home-based childcare providers often obtain a CDA to enhance their credentials and attract more families. With experience and additional education, a CDA can also lead to advancement opportunities like childcare center director or program coordinator.
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