Key Takeaways
- Complete 120 hours education and 480 hours experience before applying
- CDA Exam is taken at Pearson VUE centers (65 questions, 105 minutes)
- Must pass the exam before scheduling the Verification Visit
- Portfolio includes family questionnaires, resources, competency statements, and philosophy
- Verification Visit includes portfolio review, observation, and reflective dialogue
Last updated: January 2026
The CDA Exam Process
Understanding the CDA credentialing process helps you prepare effectively. Here's a step-by-step guide from application to receiving your credential.
Step 1: Meet Eligibility Requirements
Before applying, ensure you have:
- ✅ 120 hours of professional education (with documentation)
- ✅ 480 hours of work experience (within 3 years)
- ✅ High school diploma or GED
- ✅ Purchased the CDA Competency Standards book for your setting
Step 2: Create Your Account and Apply
- Create an account on the Council's YourCDA portal
- Complete the online application
- Pay the application fee ($525 online)
- Upload required documents
Step 3: Schedule and Take the CDA Exam
Exam Details:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Pearson VUE testing centers |
| Questions | 65 multiple-choice |
| Time | 105 minutes |
| Format | Computer-based |
| ID Required | Government-issued photo ID |
Exam Day Tips:
- Arrive 15-30 minutes early
- Bring valid photo ID
- No personal items allowed in testing room
- Read each question carefully
- Answer every question (no penalty for guessing)
Step 4: Prepare Your Professional Portfolio
After passing the exam, prepare your portfolio for the Verification Visit:
| Portfolio Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Family Questionnaires | Collect from families you work with |
| Resource Collection | Materials for each competency area |
| Competency Statements | Written reflections (one per competency) |
| Professional Philosophy | Your beliefs about working with children |
Step 5: Complete the Verification Visit
A CDA Professional Development Specialist (PDS) will:
- Review Your Portfolio - Check all required documents
- Observe You - Watch you interact with children in your setting
- Conduct Reflective Dialogue - Discuss your practices and decision-making
Step 6: Receive Your Credential
The Council reviews all assessment components:
- CDA Exam results
- Verification Visit evaluation
- Portfolio review
Important: There is no single "passing score." The Council evaluates your performance across all functional areas to make a credentialing decision.
Timeline Overview
| Step | Typical Timeline |
|---|---|
| Application processing | 1-2 weeks |
| Schedule exam | Within 90 days of approval |
| Take exam | At your scheduled time |
| Schedule Verification Visit | After passing exam |
| Verification Visit | Within your application window |
| Receive credential | 2-4 weeks after all assessments |
Test Your Knowledge
What must be completed BEFORE scheduling the Verification Visit?
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Test Your Knowledge
Where is the CDA Exam taken?
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