California’s #early-childhood-education (ECE) system is one of the largest and most diverse in the nation. Whether you work in a Title 22–licensed program, a Title 5 state-funded #preschool, a #Head-Start center, or a #family-child care #home, the Child Development Associate® (CDA) remains one of the most widely recognized and accessible credentials for entering the profession.

Beginning in February 2026, the Council for Professional Recognition is implementing updates that will affect how some California #educators complete the CDA process. These changes are designed to improve efficiency, support fair evaluation, and offer greater convenience, while keeping all CDA competency standards exactly the same.

This article breaks down the changes in clear, simple #language and explains what California educators— #teachers, aides, site supervisors, and directors—should know as they plan for professional growth.

🌴 Why the CDA Matters in California’s ECE Landscape

California’s regulatory and workforce environment is unique:

• Programs must meet Title 22 licensing requirements, including minimum #staffing qualifications.

• State-funded programs must follow Title 5 Education Code, which requires higher teacher qualifications.

• Many educators use the CDA as a stepping stone toward earning a California Child Development Permit.

• The state faces ongoing teacher shortages, high cost-of-living challenges, and a multilingual workforce that relies on flexible credential pathways.

Because of this, the CDA remains a powerful and accessible credential for new educators entering the field and those advancing their careers.

📘 Overview of the CDA 2026 Updates

Two major updates are coming in 2026:

🎓 1. Faster CDA Decisions for Some Candidates

Beginning in February 2026:

• Candidates who achieve a qualifying score on the #CDA Exam may receive their credentialing decision without a Verification Visit.

• This update #speeds up the process for candidates who already demonstrate strong competence through the exam.

• Standards remain unchanged—this is efficiency, not easier requirements.

• The qualifying threshold ensures fairness and consistent evaluation.

⚠️ Important for California Educators:
➡️ The Home Visitor CDA setting is NOT included in this change.
Home Visitor CDA candidates will continue with the traditional process, including:

• A full Verification Visit

• Onsite portfolio review by a CDA PD Specialist

• Observation in the #home-visitor setting

This ensures that CDA pathways tied closely to family engagement maintain in-person evaluation.

💻 2. Digital CDA Professional Portfolios

All CDA candidates will now upload their CDA Professional Portfolio digitally.

This change:

• Eliminates the need for paper portfolios

• Streamlines the application process

• Helps California’s mobile, tech-comfortable workforce

• Ensures easier access for PD Specialists and reviewers

For educators balancing multiple jobs, family responsibilities, or long commutes, digital submission offers major convenience.

🧑‍🏫 Who Will Still Need a Verification Visit?

Verification Visits will still be required for:

• Candidates who do NOT meet the qualifying CDA Exam threshold

• Home Visitor CDA candidates (completely unchanged process)

• Candidates whose competencies need in-person observation

This maintains the integrity of the CDA while offering efficiency for candidates who clearly demonstrate readiness.

🎯 How These Updates Impact California Educators

These updates support California’s diverse workforce in meaningful ways:

For Teachers & Aides

• Faster decisions for some candidates

• Reduction in scheduling challenges

• Easier digital documentation

• Improved career mobility

For Directors & Administrators

• Faster credentialing may help fill staffing gaps

• Digital portfolios improve coaching and evaluation

• Standards remain reliable and consistent

For California’s ECE System

• Improved workforce readiness

• More accessible credential process

• Stronger professional pathways

🧭 Preparing for the CDA 2026 Updates: California Action Steps

1. Strengthen CDA Exam Preparation

Because exam performance may determine whether a Verification Visit is needed, California candidates should:

• Review CDA competency standards

• Take practice tests

• Use CDA-aligned training

Explore California-approved CDA training:
👉 https://www.childcareed.com/courses_in-CA-california.html

2. Build a Digital-Friendly Portfolio

Begin preparing digital files for:

• Competency Statements

• Resource Collection items

• Certificates & transcripts

• Family questionnaires

3. Connect With a CDA PD Specialist

A CDA PD Specialist can help you:

• Understand expectations

• Strengthen competencies

• Organize your portfolio

• Prepare for a Verification Visit (if required)

Learn how to work with a PD Specialist:
👉 https://www.childcareed.com/r-00647-how-to-find-and-work-with-a- #cda-pd-specialist-birth-to-five.htmlhttps://www.cdacertification.com/a/earning-your-cda-in-california-start-today.html
(I can clean this link if needed.)

4. Explore CDA Support Options

California educators can learn more about getting started here:
👉 https://www.cdacertification.com/a/earning-your-cda-in-california-start-today.html

🏫 What California Directors Need to Know

Directors should note:

• Some staff may receive faster CDA decisions

• Verification Visits still exist

• Home Visitor pathway remains unchanged

• Digital portfolios support staff onboarding

• Standards remain rigorous and reliable

📚 Resources

📘 California CDA Training

California-approved CDA coursework to build competencies and prepare for the exam.
Link: https://www.childcareed.com/courses_in-CA-california.html

🧑‍🏫 How to Work With a CDA PD Specialist

A helpful guide explaining how to find and collaborate with a CDA PD Specialist.
Link: https://www.childcareed.com/r-00647-how-to-find-and-work-with-a-cda-pd-specialist-birth-to-five.htmlhttps://www.cdacertification.com/a/earning-your-cda-in-california-start-today.html

💵 Earning Your CDA in California

An article explaining how to begin the CDA process in California.
Link: https://www.cdacertification.com/a/earning-your-cda-in-california-start-today.html

📲 Follow ChildCareEd on Instagram

Daily tips, reminders, and inspiration for #early-childhood educators.
Link: https://www.instagram.com/childcareed/