How much does a Dental Assistant - Registered license cost in California?

The estimated total cost is $301, including application fees, exam fees ($181), and education costs.

How long does it take to get a Dental Assistant - Registered license in California?

The process typically takes 2-4 months after completing training, depending on education completion and exam scheduling.

What exam do I need for a Dental Assistant - Registered license in California?

You need to pass the RDA Written Exam, Practical Exam, and Law & Ethics Exam. N/A

Dental Assistant - Registered License in California

To become a Registered Dental Assistant in California, you need a Board-approved dental assisting program OR 15 months of on-the-job training, plus courses in radiation safety, coronal polishing, infection control, and dental practice act. Pass written, practical, and law/ethics exams. Application is $120, exam fees total ~$181.50. Processing takes about 30 days.

Exam: RDA Written Exam, Practical Exam, and Law & Ethics Exam
Total Cost: $301 (est.)
Timeline: 2-4 months after completing training
Renewal: Every Biennial

Requirements

Dental Assistant - Registered registration in California

gold

Veterans Benefits

Expedited processing is available for military and spouses

Estimated Costs Est.

Application Fee: $120
Exam Fee: $181
Total Estimated Cost: $301

Licensing Agency

Department of Consumer Affairs~Dental Board of California

Website 9162632300 Email

Cost Breakdown

Estimated costs for getting your Dental Assistant - Registered license in California. Values marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions.

Application Fee

$120

Exam Fee

$181

Total Estimated Cost

$301

Education / School Cost

Enter the cost of your pre-licensing education program

Application FeeEst.$120

Exam FeeEst.$181

Total Estimated Cost$301

Fees marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions and may not reflect current pricing. Verify with the California licensing board.

Dental Assistant - Registered Salary in California

Entry Level

$38,770

Median

$48,910

Experienced

$72,060

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salary data is for informational purposes only.

How to Get Licensed

Step-by-step roadmap to becoming a licensed Dental Assistant - Registered in California.

1

Submit Your Application

File your application with the licensing agency. Application fee: ~$120.
2

Receive Your License

Processing typically takes 2-4 months after completing training.

Dental Assistant - Registered Licensing in California: What to Know

California provides excellent detail for Registered Dental Assistant (RDA). Fees: Application $120, Practical Examination $100, Written Examination $43, Law and Ethics Written Examination $38.50 (total exam fees ~$181.50). Examinations are given four times per year statewide. Experience requirement: Graduation from a Board-approved dental assistant program OR 15 months of on-the-job training as a dental assistant for a licensed dentist. Required courses: Radiation Safety, Coronal Polishing, 8-hour Infection Control, 2-hour Dental Practice Act, and current BLS (American Heart Association or Red Cross). Average processing time: 30 days. Renewal: Biennially. All dentists utilizing a dental assistant must post allowed duties (Cal. Code Regs. Section 1068). Authority: Business and Professions Code Section 1752. Expedited processing available for military and spouses.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Dental Assistant - Registered license cost in California?: The estimated total cost is $301, including application fees, exam fees ($181), and education costs.
How long does it take to get a Dental Assistant - Registered license in California?: The process typically takes 2-4 months after completing training, depending on education completion and exam scheduling.
What exam do I need for a Dental Assistant - Registered license in California?: You need to pass the RDA Written Exam, Practical Exam, and Law & Ethics Exam. N/A