The CDA Just Got More Expensive — But Free Options Exist
In August 2025, the Council for Professional Recognition raised CDA credential fees for the first time since 2013. The application fee jumped to $525 for online applications ($600 for paper), and when you add training, materials, and other costs, the total can reach $1,500–$2,000+.
For early childhood educators earning an average of $30,000–$35,000/year, that's a significant investment. The good news: multiple state scholarship programs, employer reimbursements, and federal grants can cover most or all of the cost. This guide breaks down exactly what the CDA costs in 2026 and how to minimize — or eliminate — your out-of-pocket expense.
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Complete CDA Cost Breakdown (2026)
Itemized Costs
| Expense | Cost Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| CDA Training Program (120 clock hours) | $350–$1,400 | Varies by provider; online options are cheapest |
| Competency Standards Book | $25–$35 | Required for the CDA exam |
| Application Fee (online) | $525 | Increased August 2025 — includes PD Specialist fee |
| Application Fee (paper) | No longer available | Paper applications ended December 31, 2025 |
| Professional Development Specialist | Included | Fee is part of the application cost |
| Portfolio Materials | $0–$50 | Paper, printing, binder — digital options reduce cost |
| Background Check | $0–$50 | Required in some states; cost varies |
Total Cost Scenarios
| Scenario | Estimated Total | Who This Applies To |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum cost (cheapest online training + online app) | $900–$1,100 | Self-funded candidates choosing budget training |
| Mid-range (quality training program + online app) | $1,200–$1,600 | Most common path |
| Maximum cost (in-person training at college) | $1,800–$2,100+ | College-credit bearing programs |
Cost Change Comparison: Before vs. After August 2025
| Fee | Before Aug 2025 | After Aug 2025 | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Online application | $425 | $525 | +$100 (+23.5%) |
| Paper application | $500 | $600 | +$100 (+20%) |
| Online renewal | $125 | $250 | +$125 (+100%) |
| Paper renewal | $150 | $300 | +$150 (+100%) |
Key change: While paper applications remain available at higher prices ($600 initial, $300 renewal), online submission is strongly recommended to save $75-$50 per transaction. The CDA Council has also announced they will review pricing adjustments every three years, with the next review expected around 2028.
5 Ways to Get Your CDA for Free (or Nearly Free)
1. State-Funded CDA Scholarships
Many states have dedicated funding to help early childhood educators earn their CDA. Here are the major programs:
| State | Program | What It Covers | How to Apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| Minnesota | Child Care Aware MN CDA Awards | Up to $525 (full application fee) | Apply through Child Care Aware Minnesota |
| Georgia | DECAL Scholars Program | Up to $525 (full application fee) | Apply through Georgia DECAL |
| New York | Educational Incentive Program (EIP) | Up to $2,500 (covers full cost including training) | Apply through NY OCFS |
| Michigan | MIAEYC CDA Scholarship | Application and renewal fees | Apply through Michigan AEYC |
| Utah | URPD CDA Scholarship | Full cost for eligible child care workers | Apply through Utah Registry |
| Alaska | SEED Program | Application fees for qualifying educators | Apply through SEED Alaska |
| Texas | T.E.A.C.H. Early Childhood | Training + application fees | Apply through Texas AEYC |
| North Carolina | T.E.A.C.H. Early Childhood | Up to 90% of training costs + exam fees | Apply through Child Care Services Association |
| Florida | T.E.A.C.H. Early Childhood | Significant tuition and fee coverage | Apply through Children's Forum |
| Wisconsin | T.E.A.C.H. Early Childhood | Training and credentialing costs | Apply through Wisconsin Early Childhood Association |
| Missouri | Child Care Aware of Missouri | Full CDA cost at no charge | Apply through Child Care Aware Missouri |
| New Jersey | Workforce Registry CDA Scholarship | Fully funded for eligible educators | Apply through NJ Workforce Registry |
| Rhode Island | T.E.A.C.H.-RI CDA Scholarship | Training + bonus upon CDA attainment | Apply through Rhode Island AEYC |
| South Carolina | T.E.A.C.H. Early Childhood | Funded by SC DSS for eligible workers | Apply through SC DSS |
| Washington, DC | Southeast Children's Fund | Free CDA coursework + 100% cost coverage | Apply through Southeast Children's Fund |
T.E.A.C.H. (Teacher Education and Compensation Helps) operates in 22 states and the District of Columbia. Check if your state has a T.E.A.C.H. program at teachecnationalcenter.org.
2. Head Start Program Funding
If you work in a Head Start or Early Head Start program, your employer may cover the full cost of your CDA:
- Head Start Performance Standards require a percentage of staff to hold CDAs
- Many programs budget specifically for CDA training and assessment costs
- Ask your center director about professional development funding
- Federal Head Start grants include line items for staff credentialing
3. Employer Tuition Reimbursement
Many child care centers, preschools, and school districts offer tuition reimbursement:
- Large child care chains (KinderCare, Bright Horizons, Learning Care Group) often cover CDA costs for employees
- School district paraprofessionals may access professional development budgets
- Private preschools may offer partial or full reimbursement as a retention tool
- Ask your employer before paying out of pocket — many workers don't know these benefits exist
4. CCDF (Child Care Development Fund) Grants
The federal Child Care Development Fund provides grants to states specifically for professional development:
- Each state administers CCDF funds differently
- Many states use CCDF money to fund CDA scholarships
- Contact your state's child care resource and referral (CCR&R) agency
- Income eligibility requirements may apply
5. Payment Plans and Fee Reductions
If no scholarship is available:
- The CDA Council offers payment plan options for the application fee
- Some training providers offer sliding-scale tuition based on income
- Community colleges may accept financial aid for CDA-bearing coursework
- Check if your state has a workforce development program for essential workers
CDA Training Programs: Comparing Your Options
The 120 clock hours of CDA training is typically the largest single cost. Here's how options compare:
| Training Type | Cost | Duration | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Online self-paced | $350–$600 | 8–16 weeks | Cheapest; flexible schedule | Less interaction; self-discipline required |
| Online instructor-led | $500–$900 | 10–20 weeks | Structured; instructor support | Fixed schedule; moderate cost |
| In-person workshop | $600–$1,000 | Intensive weekends or evenings | Hands-on; networking | Travel; time commitment |
| Community college | $800–$1,400 | 1 semester | College credit; financial aid eligible | Most expensive; rigid schedule |
| Hybrid | $500–$800 | 12–16 weeks | Mix of flexibility and interaction | Varies by provider |
Tips for Choosing a Training Program
- Check CDA Council approval — ensure the program is recognized by the Council for Professional Recognition
- Look for scholarship-eligible programs — some state scholarships only cover approved providers
- Consider college credit — some CDA training counts toward an associate or bachelor's degree
- Ask about job placement — some programs include employment assistance for graduates
The CDA ROI: Is It Worth the Investment?
Salary Impact
| Credential Level | Average Annual Salary | Average Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| No credential | $27,000–$30,000 | $13–$14.50/hr |
| CDA credential | $30,000–$36,000 | $14.50–$17.30/hr |
| Associate degree | $33,000–$40,000 | $15.90–$19.20/hr |
| Bachelor's degree | $38,000–$50,000 | $18.30–$24.00/hr |
Career Advancement Pathways
The CDA is often the first step on a career ladder:
CDA → Associate Degree → Bachelor's Degree → Director/Administrator
| Career Stage | Credential | Typical Role | Salary Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry | High school diploma | Assistant teacher | $25,000–$29,000 |
| Level 1 | CDA credential | Lead teacher | $30,000–$36,000 |
| Level 2 | Associate degree | Senior teacher / curriculum specialist | $33,000–$40,000 |
| Level 3 | Bachelor's degree | Lead teacher / site supervisor | $38,000–$50,000 |
| Level 4 | Master's degree | Director / program administrator | $45,000–$65,000 |
The Payback Period
Even at the maximum out-of-pocket cost of $2,000:
- Average salary increase with CDA: $3,000–$6,000/year
- Payback period: 4–8 months
- Lifetime earnings increase (over 20-year career): $60,000–$120,000
If you get the CDA for free through a scholarship, the ROI is infinite.
CDA Credential Requirements Checklist
Before you start, make sure you can meet all requirements:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Age | 18 years or older |
| Education | High school diploma or GED |
| Experience | 480 hours of work experience with the age group of your CDA setting |
| Training | 120 clock hours of formal early childhood education training |
| Portfolio | Professional portfolio with competency statements, resource collection, and family questionnaires |
| Verification Visit | Observation by a CDA Professional Development Specialist |
| CDA Exam | 65 multiple-choice questions (computer-based) |
The CDA Exam Format
| Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Questions | 65 multiple-choice |
| Time | 1 hour 45 minutes |
| Passing score | Scaled score varies by setting |
| Testing method | Computer-based at Pearson VUE |
| Content areas | 6 competency goals, 13 functional areas |
Renewal Costs and Timeline
Your CDA credential isn't permanent — plan for renewal costs:
| Renewal | Timing | Cost (2026) | Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| First renewal | 3 years after initial | $250 online / $300 paper | 45 clock hours of training + 80 hours of work experience |
| Second renewal | 3 years after first | $250 online / $300 paper | Same as first renewal |
| Subsequent renewals | Every 3 years | $250 online / $300 paper | Same requirements |
Good news for renewals: First Aid and CPR certification is no longer required at the time of renewal, reducing one cost and logistical barrier.
Budget tip: Many of the same scholarship programs that cover initial CDA costs also cover renewal fees. Check with your state program at renewal time.
Get Started on Your CDA Journey
Our free CDA study program helps you prepare for the exam component of your credential:
- All 6 competency goals covered in detail
- 13 functional areas with practice questions
- AI-powered study assistant — get instant help with any early childhood education topic
- Portfolio guidance — understand what observers are looking for
- Updated for 2026 credentialing requirements
Don't let cost be a barrier — explore scholarships first, then start your free exam prep.
Official Resources
- CDA Council (Council for Professional Recognition) — Official CDA information, application, and renewal
- CDA Council — 2025 Pricing Update — Current fee schedule
- CDA Council — Find CDA Scholarships — State scholarship search tool
- T.E.A.C.H. Early Childhood National Center — Scholarship program in 22+ states
- Child Care Aware of America — CCR&R locator for your state
- Pearson VUE CDA Testing — Schedule your CDA exam