Welcome to the Dental Board of California

Registered Dental Assistant Applicants

Reciprocity is not offered to practice as a Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) in California. All persons wishing to perform the functions of a RDA in California must complete the licensure process described below.

To obtain a California RDA license, you must:

  1. Successfully pass a hands-on practical examination performed on a typodont.
  2. Successfully pass a State computerized written examination.
  3. Successfully pass a State computerized law and ethics written examination.
  4. Successfully complete Board-approved courses in coronal polishing and radiation safety.
  5. Successfully complete and show proof of a Board-approved course in Dental Practice Act, an eight (8) hour Board-approved course in infection control and proof of basic life support (CPR) card.
  6. Submit fingerprint clearances from both the Department of Justice and Federal Bureau of Identification. This process can take 60 days or more. If an applicant has a criminal history, arrest report and court records must be obtained and investigated before a decision is made to issue or deny the license. Live Scan locations

    Once this process is completed and an applicant is found to be qualified for licensure, a pocket identification card and wall certificate are issued. There is no license fee required for the initial license other than the initial application and examination fees.