Free Practice Questions for RDA
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Key Facts: RDA Exam
210
Total Items
AMT RDA Content Outline
2.5 hrs
Exam Time
AMT Candidate Handbook
$150
Exam Fee
AMT Get Certified
CPR
Required
AMT eligibility (hands-on CPR)
AMT RDA is AMT's national dental assistant certification (separate from state-issued RDA licenses). 210 items in 2.5 hours at a school site or Pearson VUE center, scaled passing score of 70, $150 fee covering application, exam, and first annual fee. Eligibility requires one of five routes plus current hands-on CPR. Focus on tooth numbering, infection control, chairside procedures, and radiographic technique and safety.
Sample RDA Practice Questions
Try these sample questions to review concepts for the RDA exam. Each question includes a detailed explanation. Start the interactive quiz above for the full 122+ question experience with AI tutoring.
1In the Universal Numbering System, which tooth is designated as #1?
2How many teeth are in the complete permanent dentition?
3Which dental tissue is the hardest substance in the human body?
4In the FDI two-digit notation system, which tooth is designated as 11?
5How many teeth are in the complete primary dentition?
6At what age do the first permanent molars typically erupt?
7Which tooth surface faces the tongue on mandibular teeth?
8Which local anesthetic is the most commonly used amide anesthetic in dentistry?
9What is the purpose of epinephrine added to local anesthetic at 1:100,000 concentration?
10What is the standard temperature and time for steam autoclave sterilization?
About the RDA Exam
AMT national dental assistant credential, distinct from state-licensed RDA titles such as California's. The 210-item exam covers office assisting skills (9.5%), dental sciences (33.3%), clinical procedures (32.4%), and dental imaging (24.8%), per AMT's 2026 content outline.
Exam sponsor: AMT. The requirements and fees below concern the certification or admission exam, separate from our free practice resources.
Questions
210 questions
Time Limit
2.5 hours
Passing Score
Scaled score of 70 (0-100 scale)
Fees, eligibility, and exam policies can change. Confirm them with the exam sponsor before applying or paying.
Our practice resources: topics covered
We aim to reflect publicly available exam outlines and topic information in our study resources. Coverage, format, and difficulty may differ from the actual exam, and we cannot guarantee that every detail is accurate or current. Confirm exam requirements, fees, and policies with the official exam sponsor.
Dental Sciences
Tooth numbering (Universal #1-32, FDI), dentition, histology, embryology, pharmacology, infection control, microbiology
Clinical Procedures
4-handed assisting, instruments, cavity classes, restorative, endo, perio, prostho, ortho, oral surgery, vital signs
Dental Imaging
BWX/PA/Pano/CBCT, ALARA, lead apron, paralleling vs bisecting, technique errors, PSP/digital
Office Assisting
Scheduling, recordkeeping, insurance, reception, HIPAA, communication, billing
Preparing for the RDA Exam
What You Need to Know
- Passing score: Scaled score of 70 (0-100 scale)
- Exam length: 210 questions
- Time limit: 2.5 hours
- Exam / certification fees: $150 Official sources
Using Our Practice Resources
- Work through all 122 available questions
- Review every answer and explanation
- Track weak areas and revisit them
- Use our AI tutor for tough concepts
RDA: Suggested Study Strategy
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Universal tooth numbering system?
Universal Numbering System (most common in US): #1 = maxillary RIGHT 3rd molar; numbers continue across upper arch to #16 = maxillary LEFT 3rd molar; #17 = mandibular LEFT 3rd molar; continues across lower arch to #32 = mandibular RIGHT 3rd molar. Primary teeth use letters A-T (A = max R 2nd primary molar; T = mand R 2nd primary molar). FDI uses two-digit format: quadrant + tooth (e.g., #11 = max R central incisor).
How do you correct cone-cut radiograph errors?
Cone cut (PID/aiming ring not aligned with receptor) appears as a clear/unexposed area on the film. Correction: re-aim PID so the central beam is fully aligned with the receptor (use a beam alignment device — XCP, RINN). Other common errors: elongation (insufficient vertical angulation — image stretched), foreshortening (excessive vertical angulation — image compressed), overlap (incorrect horizontal angulation — proximal contacts overlap).
What ALARA precautions apply to dental radiography?
ALARA = As Low As Reasonably Achievable. Use selection criteria so radiographs are taken only when clinically justified; use the fastest receptor (digital sensors or F-speed film); use rectangular collimation, which cuts patient exposure by roughly 60-70% versus a round beam; use a long PID and beam-alignment holders to prevent retakes; never hold the receptor or tubehead; stand at least 6 feet away at 90-135 degrees to the beam or behind a barrier. Since February 2024 the ADA no longer recommends lead aprons or thyroid collars for dental imaging, but follow your state's rules if they still require shielding, and never use a thyroid collar for a panoramic image.
How should I study for AMT RDA?
Plan 60-100 hours over 8-12 weeks. AMT RDA weighting heavily favors Dental Sciences (33.3%) and Clinical Procedures (32.4%). Master Universal tooth numbering, the 32-tooth permanent dentition, common cavity classes (I-VI by Black), instrument identification (mirror/explorer/probe/scaler/curette), 4-handed transfer, and radiograph technique errors. Maintain current BLS CPR — required for application.