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Key Facts: RDA Exam
140
Exam Questions
Multiple-choice
75%
Passing Score
Dental Board of CA
2 hrs
Exam Duration
PSI
$100-125
Exam Fee
Dental Board of CA
50%
Dental Procedures
Largest domain
2 years
License Renewal
CE required
The RDA exam has 140 multiple-choice questions in 2 hours with a 75% passing score. Four domains: Dental Procedures (50%), Infection Control & Safety (25%), Assessment & Diagnostic Records (15%), and Laws & Regulations (10%). Requires completion of Board-approved RDA program and CPR certification. Total cost: $180-$245 including application.
About the RDA Exam
The RDA (Registered Dental Assistant) exam validates competency in dental procedures, infection control and safety, assessment and diagnostic records, and dental laws and regulations. It is required for California RDA licensure and covers clinical and regulatory knowledge.
Questions
140 scored questions
Time Limit
2 hours
Passing Score
75%
Exam Fee
$100-$125 (Dental Board of California / PSI Services)
RDA Exam Content Outline
Dental Procedures
Provisional restorations, preventive procedures, isolation techniques, materials/supplies, patient education
Infection Control & Health/Safety
Hand hygiene, PPE, sterilization, disinfection, bloodborne pathogens, hazard communication
Assessment & Diagnostic Records
Patient history, vital signs, oral assessment, charting, diagnostic records
Laws & Regulations
Licensing requirements, scope of practice, professional conduct, ethics, HIPAA
How to Pass the RDA Exam
What You Need to Know
- Passing score: 75%
- Exam length: 140 questions
- Time limit: 2 hours
- Exam fee: $100-$125
Keys to Passing
- Complete 500+ practice questions
- Score 80%+ consistently before scheduling
- Focus on highest-weighted sections
- Use our AI tutor for tough concepts
RDA Study Tips from Top Performers
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the RDA certification?
RDA (Registered Dental Assistant) is a California credential required to perform expanded duties as a dental assistant. It validates competency in dental procedures, infection control, patient assessment, and dental law compliance.
How many questions are on the RDA exam?
The RDA exam has 140 multiple-choice questions in 2 hours. The passing score is 75%. The exam is administered by PSI Services at test centers throughout California.
What are the prerequisites for the RDA exam?
You must be 18 or older, have a high school diploma, complete a Board-approved RDA program or equivalent training pathway, and hold current CPR (BLS for Healthcare Providers) certification.
What is the scope of practice for an RDA?
RDAs can perform expanded duties including placing provisional restorations, applying topical anesthetic, taking impressions, exposing radiographs, and performing coronal polishing under dentist supervision. Scope is defined by the Dental Board of California.
How should I prepare for the RDA exam?
Plan for 60-100 hours of study over 4-8 weeks. Focus on Dental Procedures (50%) — the largest domain by far. Also prioritize Infection Control (25%). Master sterilization protocols, hand hygiene, and PPE requirements.