RDA Written Review Course

 1. Choose Your Pathway

You can qualify by either:

• Graduating from a Board‑approved RDA educational program, or

• Completing 15 months of on‑the‑job experience as a dental assistant, or

• Using a combination of non-approved education + work experience 

 2. Complete Required Courses

California requires these Board‑approved courses before applying:

• Radiation safety

• Coronal polishing

• Dental Practice Act (2‑hour)

• Infection control (8‑hour)

• Basic Life Support (BLS/CPR) approved by ASHI, AHA, ARC, ADA‑CERP, or AGD‑PACE 

 3. Apply for Exam & Licensure

• Create a free BreEZe account on the CA Department of Consumer Affairs site.

• Submit the “Registered Dental Assistant Examination and Licensure” application.

• Upload: proof of your chosen pathway, all required course certificates.

• Pay the $120 application fee.

You may also mail a paper RDA‑1 form with documents and payment to the Dental Board office.

 4. Complete Background Check

• Submit fingerprints via Live Scan (or fingerprint card) for DOJ/FBI clearance 

 5. Pass the Combined State Exam

You must pass the Combined Written & Law/Ethics Examination administered by PSI. Authorization to test is sent after your application is approved

 6. Receive RDA License

Once you pass the exam and clear the background check, the Dental Board issues your RDA license.

 7. Renew & Maintain

• The license is valid for two years, expiring in your birth month.

• Renewal requires continuing education (approx. 25 CE units, including live hours), up‑to‑date CPR, and renewal fees 

 Upcoming Changes (Starting July 1, 2025)

New pathways will be implemented per California Senate Bill 1453. Future requirements may include:

• DANB CDA certification,

• Preceptorship instead of the 15‑month work requirement 

 Quick Roadmap Summary