Frequently Asked Questions

What's on the exam?  Is the state exam included in the online course?

The exam is about laws and regulations (Jurisprudence), x-rays (Radiology), and infection control. This course helps prepare you for the exam, and yes, the state exam is included in the online course.  You can review the videos at your own pace and take notes! You must complete the course and exam within 45 days of enrollment.  

Will I receive my completion certificate in the mail - or - by email?

You will receive your completion certificate electronically. We do not mail physical certificates. When you complete the course successfully within 45 days of enrollment, you will receive your certificate via email. You can print or save this on your computer or electronic device.  

I've taken this course before.  How do I take it again?

You will need to contact technical support first and ask them to re-open the course to you again. Call 800-701-5161 | M-F, 8 - 6 

How much does a dental assistant earn hourly?

It depends on where you live in Texas!  You can see hourly wage estimates for your area by visiting the Texas Wages website.

I passed my online RDA course and exam, and completed my TSBDE RDA Application Requirements (CPR & Human Trafficking). What's next? 

As step 4 describes, you'll be working with the Texas State Board of Dental Examiners (TSBDE) to complete your paperwork and return it to TSBDE.  Learn more about the requirements here.

What is the Human Trafficking TSBDE requirement. 

Effective September 1, 2020, all dental health care personnel, including dentists, hygienists, and RDA's will be required to complete human trafficking prevention training to apply for their state license or certification.  The course is required for all first-time dental assistants prior to submitting their application.  Enroll HERE. (Free with RDA Course Registration)  Through Unbound, this course meets the TSBDE requirements for human trafficking and is approved by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC). 

I have my Registered Dental Assistant license.  What more can I do?

Continue to learn! Ask Texas AGD about continuing education courses or TSBDE about continuing education courses to renew your license.
Get an additional certificate! With a Nitrous Oxide Monitoring certificate, you can help check patients' sedation levels.
Consider going to college!  Continue your career in dentistry.  Learn about financial aid options.

I'm going to move out of Texas.  Can I use my license in another state?

This license is a cost-effective way to start your career as a dental assistant in Texas, but if you are planning to move to another state, you should do some research first. Before you register for any courses with us, you should first contact the state dental board in that state to see what licenses and programs they recognize.   

I need to RENEW my license.  How do I do that?

First, you will want to review the CE requirements here!  You can take our online course; Texas AGD is an Approved TSBDE CE Provider.  Or you can take other CE courses from Approved TSBDE CE Providers.  When you are ready, visit the TSBDE webpage to get your renewal application!

How can I find a job in Texas?

There are free resources to help you!  Visit www.workintexas.com to be matched with jobs or contact your local Texas Workforce Commission office for personal assistance.

My RDA registration through TSBDE expired over 1 year ago.  Can I still renew - OR - do I need to start a new application?

If your RDA registration expired over 1 year ago, unfortunately, the Texas State Board explains in Rule D3 that you cannot renew. So, it is time to follow the steps here and start a new RDA application!  

Do I need to be employed by a dentist before I can take the course and become a RDA? 

You can take the online course and exam before OR after you are hired to work in a dental practice; it's your choice.