Registered Dental Assistant Program

Last Updated on 09/08/2424 at 7:12pm

Registered Dental Assistant Program

Program Overview

In Texas, dental assistants can enhance their career prospects by obtaining a Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) certificate. This certification allows you to take dental X-rays and is a step towards advancing your career within dental practices.

Certification Requirements

To become a Registered Dental Assistant, candidates must have a GED or high school diploma, complete an approved RDA course, and pass an in-person CPR class. The Texas State Board of Dental Examiners (TSBDE) sets these requirements to ensure quality and proficiency in dental assisting.

Steps to Certification

  1. Register and complete the online RDA course, which includes Radiology, Infection Control, and Jurisprudence sections.
  2. Take the final assessment, with an opportunity to retake once for no additional charge.
  3. Complete additional requirements such as the Human Trafficking course and CPR training.
  4. Apply for the RDA certificate through TSBDE with the necessary fees and application steps.

Benefits of Certification

  • Career advancement opportunities in dental practices.
  • Acquire essential skills in dental X-ray, infection control, and legal aspects of dental care.
  • 100% online course access, allowing for flexible learning schedules.
  • Enhance credibility and employability within the dental profession.

Renewal Process

RDAs need to complete 12 CE hours biennially with an approved provider to maintain their certification. This ensures that dental assistants stay updated on the latest practices and technologies in dentistry.

Contact Information

For more information or assistance with the RDA program, please contact:

Email: support@tagd.org

Phone: (800) 701-5161



Texas State Dental CE Requirements


Dental CE Requirements for Texas Dental Professionals

Profession Total CE Hours (Every 2 Years) Technical/Scientific Hours Risk Management Controlled Substances CPR/BLS Requirement Self-Study Hours
Dentists 24 16 Up to 8 2 hours if authorized Current CPR required Up to 8
Dental Hygienists 24 16 Up to 8 Not required Current CPR required Up to 8
Dental Assistants 12 At least 6 Not required Not required Current CPR required No
Registered Dental Assistants 24 16 Up to 8 Not required Current CPR required Up to 8

Continuing Education Requirements for Texas Dental Professionals

Ensure you meet your continuing education requirements for dental professionals in Texas. Here's a breakdown of CE requirements by role:

Requirement Dentists Dental Hygienists Dental Assistants Registered Dental Assistants
Total CE Hours (Every 2 Years) 24 24 12 24
Technical/Scientific Hours 16 16 At least 6 16
Risk Management Up to 8 Up to 8 Not required Up to 8
Controlled Substances 2 hours if authorized Not required Not required Not required
CPR/BLS Requirement Current CPR required Current CPR required Current CPR required Current CPR required
Self-Study Hours Up to 8 Up to 8 No Up to 8

View All Texas CE Requirements