Aspiring to become a registered dental assistant (RDA) or curious to learn more about this rewarding career path? Aside from getting patients prepared for their exams or taking X-rays, RDAs perform more complex duties than unlicensed dental assistants. That’s why it’s critical to understand the differences in dental assisting roles.
In addition to performing a wider breadth of duties, registered dental assistants typically have greater career flexibility. To get there, you’ll need to start preparing for the Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) exam.
This guide covers important information about the RDA exam — what it is, what’s on it, and the tips to help you nail it on your first try. Review our career guide on how to become a dental assistant in California for additional information on education and certification requirements.
What is the RDA Exam?
The Registered Dental Assistant exam is a test administered by the Dental Board of California to prospective registered dental assistants. The purpose of the exam is to assess whether candidates have the knowledge and skills needed to perform the responsibilities required of a registered dental assistant.
Candidates have three hours to complete 125 scored and 25 pretest (unscored) multiple-choice items on the exam. These multiple-choice questions cover a variety of topics, but they focus on four main components: assessing/diagnosing records, dental procedures, infection control, and laws and regulations.
What’s on the RDA Exam?
As with any exam, it’s important to know what’s on the RDA exam. Below is an outline of the 2024 RDA Combined Written and Law and Ethics Examination. The numbers in parentheses indicate the approximate percentage of scored questions covering the topic in the RDA exam:
- Assessment and Diagnostic Records (15%)
- Patient Information and Assessment (8%)
- Diagnostic Tests and Records (7%)
- Dental Procedures (50%)
- Treatment Preparation (15%)
- Direct and Indirect Restorations (10%)
- Preventative and Aesthetic Procedures (10%)
- Patient Education (10%)
- Specialty Procedures (5%)
- Infection Control and Health and Safety (25%)
- Patient Safety and Prevention of Disease Transmission (15%)
- Equipment Disinfection and Cross-Contamination Prevention (10%)
- Laws and Regulation (10%)
Study Tips for the RDA Exam
Studying for the RDA exam doesn’t have to be overwhelming — especially when you’re equipped with the proper resources you need to succeed. Here are some proven tips to boost your confidence and pass the exam.
1. Understand the Exam Format
Before you start studying, you need to know how the RDA exam is set up. Knowing the exam’s structure can make a big difference in how you prepare and feel on test day. Start by familiarizing yourself with the number of sections, the timing for each part, and the types of questions you'll encounter.
A great place to begin is by accessing the RDA exam resources available on the Dental Board of California’s website. These resources provide a clear overview of the exam format and the subjects you'll be tested on, allowing you to tailor your study plan accordingly.
2. Develop a Consistent Study Schedule
Once you understand the exam format, the next step is to organize your study time effectively. Divide your preparation into smaller sections, focusing on one topic at a time—like infection control, dental materials, or radiology. Allocate specific days or time slots for each subject and stick to your plan to avoid last-minute cramming. The main goal here is to stay consistent.
3. Start Practicing with Sample Questions
It’s time to start putting your knowledge to the test. Start by reviewing the four main topics covered on the RDA exam and look for practice tests or prep guides with a variety of sample questions. Working through sample questions is a great way to gauge your understanding and identify areas where you might need more review.
Since the RDA exam is administered by the Psychological Services Incorporated (PSI) in California, make sure to only use test guides designed specifically for California residents. Here are a few sample questions to help you get familiar with what you might encounter:
- In addition to being labeled or color-coded red, sharps containers must have what features?
- They must be compact and leakproof
- They must be compact and reusable
- They must be puncture-resistant and reusable
- They must be puncture-resistant and leakproof
- Why should an RDA floss the patient’s teeth after coronal polishing?
- To adhere the polishing agent to the sublingual area
- To apply the polishing agent subgingivally to the gingiva
- To strengthen the enamel of the interproximal tooth surfaces
- To remove debris that may be lodged in the interproximal contact area
- Why is it important to use the proper cuff size when taking a patient’s blood pressure?
- To prevent arrhythmia
- To prevent a false reading
- The patient can experience syncope
- The patient can become uncomfortable
- Which of the following actions should an RDA take after the sealant has set?
- Check tooth with an explorer to ensure sealant is well-retained
- Check tooth with floss to remove excess cement from interproximal contacts
- Instruct patient to rinse with water to ensure excess material is removed
- Instruct patient to rinse with mouthwash to ensure sealant provides protection from sensitivity
Remember: These sample questions do not fully represent the content that will be on the RDA exam. If you’re enrolled in a Dental Assisting program, ask your instructor about accessing official practice exams or additional resources.
4. Practice Time Management
Be sure to practice under timed conditions to improve your speed and accuracy. You should aim to simulate the exam environment by timing yourself while working through practice questions or sample tests. This ensures you get comfortable with the pacing and know in advance what sections are taking you too long to complete.
5. Join a Study Group
Joining a study group can make exam preparation more effective by allowing you to share resources, quiz each other, and tackle challenging topics together. ACC’s board-approved Dental Assisting program provides opportunities to train alongside other dental professionals in real-world settings, giving you valuable hands-on experience and expanding your professional network. Study groups are also a great way for you to connect with others who are equally committed to mastering the concepts that will appear on the exam.
Where Can I Take the RDA Exam?
According to the Dental Board of California, the RDA exam is administered by the testing vendor Psychological Services Incorporated. In order to take the exam, you must first apply for the exam through the Dental Board of California and then wait for approval. Once approved, the Board will notify you by mail where and when you can take the written exam.
When Will I Get My Results?
Waiting for your exam results can be stressful, so here’s what to expect:
- Written examination results are given at the PSI testing site directly after the exam is completed.
- All candidates that fail will receive a score of 55%. All candidates that pass will receive a score of 75%. This is because the Board can only provide pass/fail results, meaning your actual score on the exam is not released.
How Do I Renew My RDA Certification?
Your RDA certification is valid for two years, and you will need to renew it before it expires. Here are the steps you need to follow for renewal:
- Step 1: Complete any required continuing education (CE) hours. RDAs require 25 units for renewal; however, dental licensees renewing for the first time are exempt from continuing education requirements.
- Step 2: Apply for renewal through the Dental Board of California BreEZe system.
- Step 3: Pay the renewal fee and submit any relevant documentation. Failure to pay the fee will prohibit you from legally practicing as a registered dental assistant.
Train to Become a Dental Assistant Through ACC
Want to learn more about becoming a dental assistant in California? ACC’s approved Dental Assisting program prepares you to pass the RDA exam in as little as 10 months. You’ll have the opportunity to participate in real-world training through a 160-hour externship. Plus, once you complete the RDA and state exams, you’re awarded the Coronal Polish Certification and Pit and Fissure Certification.
ACC’s dental assisting diploma program is offered in a blended format (combining in-person instruction with online coursework) at our campuses in Los Angeles, Anaheim, and Ontario. Join us for a campus tour to envision yourself at ACC. Your future in dental assisting is just around the corner!
The Dental Assisting programs in Los Angeles, Orange County, and Ontario are approved by the Dental Board of California. Dental Board of California 2005 Evergreen Street, Suite 1550, Sacramento, CA 95815; Phone (916) 263-2300 / Fax (916) 263-2140 / www.dbc.ca.gov
