Registered Dental Assistant Program

In Texas, you can be a dental assistant by applying for a job at a dental office and learning job skills while you work with a dentist. However, if you want to help the dentist with X-rays, then first you need to get your Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) certificate. The RDA certificate allows you to take dental X-rays in Texas in a dentist's office.  It's one way to advance in your career in dentistry!

4 Steps to Get a Registered Dental Assistant Certificate  

Learn about the certificate requirements
The Texas State Board of Dental Examiners (TSBDE) requires you to have a GED or high school diploma to become a Registered Dental Assistant. Getting a GED or High School Diploma. The TSBDE also requires you to take and pass an approved RDA course and an in-person CPR class.

Register and Complete our online RDA course
When you register for our online RDA course, you will have 45 days to complete it. There are 3 different sections: Radiology (learn about X-rays), Infection Control, and Jurisprudence (legal considerations). There is a final assessment at the end, so it is a good idea to take notes while you watch the videos and then study for the final assessment.  If you don't pass the assessment, you can take the assessment one additional time for no charge. Our online RDA course includes the TSBDE exam!  Click here to register now.

COST : $163

Take a CPR class near you
You can register and take the CPR class anytime! It just must be completed prior to you turning in your application in Step 4. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is a class that teaches you a life-saving skill called "timed chest compressions." It can help save a patient's life if they have a heart problem.  This CPR class must be an in-person class; you cannot take an online CPR class.

Find a CPR class and the cost of the class.

Apply for your RDA certificate with the Texas State Board of Dental Examiners (TSBDE)
Okay! You finished our RDA online course, you passed our final assessment, and you finished your CPR class too. Now, you are ready to apply for your certificate. First, visit the website or contact the Texas State Board of Dental Examiners (TSBDE) to learn about the application process. Next, you can begin your application online OR download the paper application. The application has fees and steps. Contact TSBDE any time you need help.

Contact TSBDE for details

Do You Need to Renew Your Certification?
Per the Texas State Board of Dental Examiners (TSBDE), all RDAs are required to complete 12 CE hours biennially. Click here to learn more. The RDA CE Renewal Program is designed with your biennial CE requirements in mind. Click here to review the steps to renew your certification.