200+ Free CDA Practice Questions
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Key Facts: CDA Exam
65
Exam Questions
60 standard + 5 scenario-based
6
Competency Standards
Council for Professional Recognition
13
Functional Areas
Assessed across all CDA settings
$525
Credential Fee
Initial application fee (2026)
3 years
Credential Valid
Renewal: $250 fee
200+
Practice Questions Here
OpenExamPrep question bank
The CDA exam consists of 65 multiple-choice questions (60 standard + 5 scenario-based with photos), administered at Pearson VUE centers. Time limit is 1 hour 45 minutes for most settings (1 hour 55 minutes for the new Birth to Five credential). The exam is Pass/Fail with no published cut score. As of February 2026, candidates take the exam BEFORE scheduling the Verification Visit, and high scorers may qualify for a streamlined credentialing decision. Fee is $525. The credential is valid for 3 years.
About the CDA Exam
The CDA (Child Development Associate) credential is the most widely recognized early childhood credential in the United States, awarded by the Council for Professional Recognition. The exam tests 6 Competency Standards across 13 functional areas including safe environments, child development, social-emotional guidance, family relationships, program management, and professionalism.
Questions
65 scored questions
Time Limit
1 hour 45 minutes (105 minutes)
Passing Score
Pass/Fail (no published cut score; evaluated across all 13 functional areas)
Exam Fee
$525 (initial credential) (Council for Professional Recognition / Pearson VUE)
CDA Exam Content Outline
Safe, Healthy Environment (FA 1–2)
Health and safety practices, emergency procedures, SIDS prevention, illness exclusion, handwashing, medication administration, allergen management
Learning Environment (FA 3)
Classroom arrangement, age-appropriate materials, interest areas, cultural responsiveness in environment design
Physical & Intellectual Development (FA 4–5)
Gross and fine motor milestones, cognitive development theories (Piaget, Vygotsky), play and learning, brain development
Communication & Creative Development (FA 6–7)
Language acquisition, literacy foundations, phonological awareness, bilingual support, art and music in development
Social-Emotional & Guidance (FA 8–10)
Attachment, Erikson's stages, positive guidance strategies, conflict resolution, self-concept, emotional regulation
Families & Program Management (FA 11–12)
Family-centered practice, confidentiality, observation and documentation, curriculum planning, assessment tools, transitions
How to Pass the CDA Exam
What You Need to Know
- Passing score: Pass/Fail (no published cut score; evaluated across all 13 functional areas)
- Exam length: 65 questions
- Time limit: 1 hour 45 minutes (105 minutes)
- Exam fee: $525 (initial credential)
Keys to Passing
- Complete 500+ practice questions
- Score 80%+ consistently before scheduling
- Focus on highest-weighted sections
- Use our AI tutor for tough concepts
CDA Study Tips from Top Performers
Frequently Asked Questions
How many questions are on the CDA exam?
The CDA exam has 65 multiple-choice questions: 60 standard knowledge-based questions and 5 scenario-based questions that include a short narrative and photograph. The time limit is 1 hour 45 minutes for most credential settings, and 1 hour 55 minutes for the new Birth to Five credential.
What is the passing score for the CDA exam?
The Council for Professional Recognition does not publish a specific numeric passing score. Results are evaluated holistically across all 13 functional areas. The credentialing decision also considers the Verification Visit (or streamlined decision path for high exam performers) and the Professional Portfolio.
What are the eligibility requirements for the CDA?
To apply for the CDA, you need: (1) a high school diploma or GED; (2) 120 clock hours of formal early childhood education training covering 8 subject areas (minimum 10 hours each); (3) 480 hours of work experience with young children in an early childhood setting within the past 3 years. All applications are now submitted online through the YourCouncil portal.
What changed about the CDA process in 2026?
Major 2026 changes: (1) Candidates now take the exam BEFORE scheduling the Verification Visit; (2) High exam scorers may qualify for a streamlined credentialing decision without a full verification visit; (3) A new Birth to Five center-based credential was launched; (4) Paper applications ended December 31, 2025 — all applications are now online; (5) A new e-portfolio digital tool was launched in February 2026.
What is the CDA Professional Portfolio?
The CDA Professional Portfolio contains six Reflective Competency Statements (one per Competency Standard), Family Questionnaires from families you work with, documentation of your 120+ hours of training, and a Resource Collection. As of 2026, a digital e-portfolio tool in the YourCouncil portal guides candidates through portfolio preparation.
How long is the CDA credential valid?
The CDA credential is valid for 3 years from the date it is awarded. Renewal requires 45 hours of continuing education, a current work experience statement, and the $250 renewal fee. Most renewals are processed automatically upon submission — a percentage are randomly selected for audit.