Does California Childcare Centers Require a CDA? - post

In most cases, California does not require a CDA (Child Development Associate Credential®) to work in a licensed child care center.

Instead, California licensing rules usually focus on things like:

• College units in early childhood education/child development (ECE/CD)

• Work experience

• Meeting specific role requirements (teacher, infant teacher, director, etc.)

For example, California’s Title 22 “teacher qualifications” talk about ECE/CD units and experience, not a CDA requirement.

That said, many centers like the CDA because it shows training, skills, and professionalism. Some programs may also prefer it for hiring or promotions. #CDA #EarlyChildhoodEducation

📚 What do California Title 22 rules usually require for teachers?

Many licensed child care centers in California follow Title 22 regulations. Under Title 22, a fully qualified teacher can qualify in ways that include:

• 12 semester units (or quarter equivalent) in ECE/CD and

• At least 6 months of work experience in a licensed center or similar program

Key point: Title 22 lists units and experience pathways. It does not say “you must have a CDA.”

If you work with infants, there are also specific education requirements for infant care teachers.

🏫 Are there California programs where a CDA matters more?

Yes. In California, requirements can change based on the type of program.

Some examples:

• Title 22 licensed private centers: often focus on ECE/CD units + experience

• State-funded programs (often called “Title 5” programs, like CSPP): may require higher qualifications, such as a Child Development Permit

• Head Start or grant-funded programs: may set their own standards and may prefer or require certain credentials (varies by agency)

So the best answer is:

• California licensing usually does not require a CDA

• Some employers or funding sources may prefer it

• A CDA can help you move forward in your career (#CaliforniaChildCare)

🌟 How can a CDA help you in California even if it isn’t required?

Even when it’s not required, the CDA can still be a smart choice because it can help you:

• Build strong teaching skills (health & safety, child development, positive guidance, and more)

• Stand out when applying for jobs

• Feel more confident in the classroom

• Work toward other goals, like a California Child Development Permit

Many educators use the CDA as a “step” toward a California Child Development Permit.

✅ What should you do if you’re not sure what your center requires?

If you’re asking, “Do I need a CDA for my job?”, here’s a simple checklist:

• Ask your director or HR: “Do you require a CDA, ECE units, or a permit?”

• Ask what rules they follow: Title 22 only, Title 5/CSPP, Head Start, etc.

• Check your role: infant teacher, preschool teacher, assistant, director (requirements can differ)

• Keep written proof: transcripts, certificates, and training records

Tip: If your center says “We need ECE/CD units,” ask them which classes count.

🗓️ What’s changing with the CDA in 2026 (and why California educators should care)?

If you plan to earn your CDA soon, you should know about updates starting February 2026.

A helpful summary is here:

• https://www.cdacertification.com/a/cda-2026-changes-what-california-educatorsshould-know.html

Two big updates mentioned include:

• Digital CDA portfolios (uploading instead of paper)

• Faster decisions for some candidates if they meet a qualifying exam score (some may not need a verification visit)

This matters because it may help educators finish the CDA process more smoothly—especially busy teachers balancing work and family. #ChildCare #ProfessionalDevelopment

🎓 ChildCareEd trainings 

If you want CDA training that matches your setting, here are directly related options from ChildCareEd:

• Birth to Five CDA Credential with Portfolio Review

• CDA Preschool Credential

• CDA Infant/Toddler Credential with Portfolio Review

These are helpful if you want a clear training path and support while building your portfolio.

🧾 What free ChildCareEd resource can keep you on track?

Use this checklist to stay organized while you work toward your CDA:

• Updated Checklist for Earning Your CDA Credential

It’s a simple way to make sure you don’t miss steps.

📰  CDA overview

If you’re still thinking, “What is a CDA and how does it work?”, start here:

• What Is a CDA Certification? A Complete Breakdown for Aspiring Early Educators

📲 Where can you connect with ChildCareEd

For tips, reminders, and encouragement, follow ChildCareEd on Instagram:

• Follow ChildCareEd on Instagram

Follow today so you can get quick learning tips, course updates, and CDA motivation in your feed! #Preschool #ECE