Keep your CDA active! Your Child Development Associate (CDA) credential from the Council for Professional Recognition is valid for three years from the award date. It must be renewed before it expires. You can begin the renewal application up to six months in advance. In addition to providing CDA Training Pathways to guide candidates through the entire credentialing process, the National Head Start Association (NHSA) is committed to providing resources to help the Head Start workforce keep their credentials up-to-date.
Complete after the issue date of the credential being renewed.
Obtain 4.5 CEUs, a 3 credit hour college course, or 45 clock hours of training.
NOTE: Training must be specific to credential type
Become a member of an ECE professional organization.
NOTE: Membership must be current at time of application
Select an early childhood professional to review and verify your training and membership documentation.
NOTE: Training and membership documentation will no longer be submitted to or accepted by the Council
Complete within one (1) year of submitting your application.
Complete 80 hours of experience working with children.
NOTE: Experience must be specific to credential type
Select an early childhood professional to:
