If you’ve been thinking about working in childcare, you’ve probably heard about the Child Development Associate (CDA) credential. It’s one of the most recognized qualifications in early childhood education—and in many states, it’s a must-have for teaching or entering a licensed childcare program.
But if you’ve found yourself Googling “how to get my CDA license” or “CDA classes near me”, you already know the process can feel overwhelming. Between training hours, portfolio requirements, and assessment steps, it’s easy to feel stuck before you even start.
The good news? With the right guidance and the right training program, you can earn your CDA faster and with less stress. In this guide, we’ll break down exactly what the CDA is, why it matters, and how to complete it efficiently, especially if you want to work in Florida, Texas, Louisiana, or other states with specific credentialing rules.
What Is the CDA Certification?
The CDA is a national credentialing program awarded by the Council for Professional Recognition. It shows that you have the knowledge, skills, and practical experience to work effectively with young children in a variety of settings.
There are four main CDA settings:
- Preschool (ages 3–5)
- Infant–Toddler
- Family Child Care
- Home Visitor
Once earned, the CDA is valid for three years and can be renewed.
Why Is the CDA So Important?
In many states, a CDA is the minimum qualification for lead teachers and higher childcare staff positions. For example:
- Florida: The CDA fulfills requirements for the Florida Staff Credentialand is a stepping stone toward the Florida Director Credential.
- Texas: CDA certificationcan be paired with a Texas director credentialto meet daycare director requirements.
- Louisiana: The CDA is recognized in Louisiana daycare licensingas a core credential for childcare workers.
It is the only portable and national credential of its kind, meaning that it’s recognized across the United States through the CDA National Credentialing Program.
Who Needs the CDA?
You should strongly consider a CDA if you:
- Want to start a career in childcare but have no formal credentials.
- Are working toward preschool director qualificationsor daycare director certification.
- Need a DCF staff credentialin Florida.
- Are a high school student interested in getting a head start through approved CDA high school pathways, gaining a competitive advantage before graduation.
Even if you already have classroom experience, a CDA can help you advance into a lead or supervisory position.
How to Get the CDA – Step by Step
Whether you’re searching for CDA classes in person or an online CDA program, the process follows the same core steps. The Council for Professional Recognition offers four CDA types, and the process is similar for each.
- Choose Your Setting
Pick the CDA type that fits your career goal—Preschool, Infant–Toddler, Family Child Care, or Home Visitor. If you’re taking the NICCM Fast Track CDA program, you don’t need to worry about whether your setting is covered—the training is designed to prepare you for any CDA type. - Complete 120 Hours of Formal Education
These hours can be completed through:
- Online CDA programoptions for flexibility and speed
- In-person programs like the Fast Track CDAor a regularCDA class near you
- Gain 480 Hours of Experience
You must have documented experience working directly with children in your chosen age group. This requirement applies no matter your setting, and NICCM supports candidates from all childcare environments. - Compile a Professional Portfolio
Your CDA portfolio will include:
- A personal Philosophy Statement
- Resource collection (lesson plans, policies, etc.)
- Professional reflections
- Apply Through the CDA National Credentialing Program
Submit your application and fee to the Council for Professional Recognition. - Prepare for the Verification Visit & Exam
A CDA Professional Development Specialist will:
- Review your portfolio
- Observe your work with children
- Conduct a reflective dialogue
You’ll also take a computer-based CDA exam.
How to Get Your CDA License Faster – The NICCM Fast Track CDA Option
If you’re thinking, “This sounds like it could take months, maybe even years,” you’re right. Many educators take six months to a year to complete their CDA.
The NICCM Fast Track CDA program offers a quicker route—without cutting corners. It’s built for busy childcare professionals across all settings who want to:
- Complete coursework in as little as 3 days
- Get expert, setting-neutral portfolio guidance
- Receive targeted assessment prep from industry leaders
NICCM’s Fast Track CDA program is designed to meet the national CDA requirements, which means it doesn’t limit you to a single setting. Instead, the program equips you with the coursework, portfolio support, and assessment preparation you need, no matter where you work. Whether you’re in a daycare center, school-based preschool, private early learning program, or a licensed home childcare business, you can complete your CDA requirements through the Fast Track approach and be ready for credentialing in your chosen area.
Florida-Specific Tips for CDA Candidates
If you want to work in Florida, your CDA fulfills the requirements for the DCF Staff Credential. Additionally, it also helps you move towards earning the Florida Director Credential—but you’ll also need to complete the Florida Overview of Child Care Management Course (approved by the Department of Children and Families).
NICCM’s National Administrator Credential (NAC) fulfills this requirement, making it easier to go from teacher to director without piecing together multiple programs.
Florida candidates often search for:
- CDA Jacksonville or CDA Orlando
- Directors credential Florida
- DCF training and credentialing
- How to obtain a CDA in Florida
If that’s you, the Fast Track CDA plus NAC combo can save you months of work.
Texas & Louisiana Considerations
- Texas:In Texas, the CDA is a strong starting point for launching your childcare career, whether you’re entering the field for the first time or formalizing your experience. It’s also a key step toward earning yourTexas child care director certification—available online or in person—for those aiming to move into management roles. Many candidates pair the CDA with a daycare director certification, such as the NAC in Texas, to open the door to leadership and supervisory roles.
- Louisiana:The CDA meets Louisiana daycare licensing requirementsand can also support those pursuing CDA certification in Louisiana for career advancement.
CDA Portfolio Tips
Your portfolio is a critical part of the process. Here’s how to get it right:
- Stay Organized– Use tabs for each section.
- Be Specific– Include real examples of your work.
- Reflect Honestly– Show growth, not perfection.
- Ask for Feedback– NICCM instructors can review your materials for clarity.
Online vs. In-Person CDA Programs
Online CDA programs offer flexibility for those working full-time or managing family responsibilities. Look for:
- Self-paced modules
- Instructor support
- Portfolio review assistance
In-person CDA classes (like CDA Orlando or CDA Jacksonville, Florida) can be great if you prefer face-to-face learning and networking.
Common CDA Mistakes to Avoid
- Waiting too long to start your 480 hours of experience
- Choosing the wrong CDA setting for your career goals
- Submitting an incomplete portfolio
- Not preparing for the verification visit
Avoiding these pitfalls can save you time, reduce stress, and help you earn your CDA with confidence.
Why Pair the CDA with the NAC?
Once you earn your CDA, you may want to move into early childhood education administration or management. That’s where the National Administrator Credential comes in.
The NAC:
- Meets requirements for earning theDirector's Credentialin multiple states, including Texas, Louisiana, Utah, and New Mexico, along with relevant experience.
- Fulfills the Florida Overview of Child Care Management Course requirements
With both the CDA and NAC, you’ll be ready for leadership roles such as preschool director, program coordinator, or center administrator.
Your Fast Track to a Childcare Career
Whether you’re in Florida, Texas, Louisiana, or anywhere in the U.S., the CDA is your gateway to a rewarding career in early childhood education.
With the NICCM Fast Track CDA program, you can:
- Complete your CDA courserequirements in record time
- Receive expert guidance on your professional portfolio
- Prepare for the CDA exam with confidence
- Move quickly into higher-paying, leadership positions
Ready to Get Started?
Don’t let complicated requirements hold you back from the career you want. NICCM has helped thousands of educators, from CDA certification Florida seekers to daycare director certification Texas candidates, reach their goals faster.
Take the first step today. Learn more about NICCM’s Fast Track CDA and NAC program, or if you already know what course to go for, register now!