A Child Development Associate (CDA) Certification is a critical credential for early childhood educators looking to enhance their careers, improve job prospects, and meet state and national requirements. Many professionals opt to get their CDA online to complete the process conveniently without disrupting their schedules.
However, not all CDA programs offer the same level of support. Unlike most online training providers that only assist with the required 120 hours of coursework, NICCM’s CDA Fast Track Distance Learning Program takes a comprehensive, start-to-finish approach. NICCM helps candidates with:
✔ Training hours required for CDA certification
✔ Documenting work experience
✔ Building a professional portfolio
✔ Application submission
✔ Test preparation & scheduling
✔ Guidance for the Verification Visit
✔ Post-certification support
By enrolling in NICCM’s CDA Fast Track Distance Learning Program, candidates receive hands-on mentorship throughout the process, ensuring they meet every certification requirement without confusion or delays.
Step 1: Enroll in an Approved CDA Training Program
If you want to get your CDA online, the first step is choosing a trusted training provider that supports candidates through every stage. NICCM’s CDA Fast Track Distance Learning Program ensures that educators don’t just complete coursework but successfully navigate every aspect of certification with expert guidance.
Step 2: Complete the 120-Hour CDA Training Online
NICCM provides structured coursework covering all eight CDA subject areas, including but not limited to:
✔ Planning a Safe & Healthy Learning Environment
✔ Advancing Children’s Physical & Cognitive Development
✔ Supporting Social-Emotional Growth & Cultural Identity
✔ Building Strong Family & Community Relationships
✔ Observing & Assessing Child Development
✔ Professionalism & Leadership in Early Childhood Education
✔ Program Management
✔ Strategies to Maintain a Productive Learning Environment
NICCM ensures that candidates don’t just complete the hours—they gain a practical understanding of these concepts through structured guidance.
Step 3: Gain Hands-On Experience While Learning
Unlike most online programs, NICCM helps candidates document their work experience and create their CDA Professional Portfolio, a key certification requirement. This portfolio includes:
✔ Competency Statements reflecting on early childhood practices
✔ A Resource Collection of lesson plans, activity ideas, and teaching tools
✔ Family Questionnaires assessing the candidate’s childcare approach
Many CDA candidates struggle with assembling these materials independently, but NICCM provides step-by-step support to ensure everything is correctly documented and prepared.
Step 4: Submit Your CDA Application & Schedule the Exam
Once the coursework and portfolio are complete, NICCM helps candidates:
✔ Submit their CDA application to the Council for Professional Recognition
✔ Pay the application & exam fee
✔ Schedule the required CDA Verification Visit & Written Exam
NICCM ensures candidates don’t navigate these administrative steps alone. From scheduling to paperwork submission, NICCM assists every step of the way.
Step 5: Take the CDA Exam and Complete the Verification Visit
The final step to get your CDA online is passing the CDA Exam and completing a Verification Visit with a Professional Development Specialist. NICCM fully prepares candidates by:
✔ Offering test prep resources and guidance
✔ Providing coaching for the Verification Visit
✔ Assisting with scheduling and final certification steps
After passing the exam and completing the Verification Visit, candidates earn their CDA certification, which is valid for three years.
Why NICCM’s CDA Fast Track Stands Out
Many online CDA programs leave candidates to figure out key requirements independently. NICCM, however, ensures full guidance from start to finish, making it easier and faster to complete certification without delays.
✔ Comprehensive Support – NICCM covers everything: coursework, applications, portfolio preparation, and exam readiness.
✔ Direct Instructor Access – Unlike most online programs, NICCM provides expert guidance with real instructors available to help.
✔ Start-to-Finish Assistance – NICCM helps schedule the exam & Verification Visit, a step often left out by other programs.
Earning your CDA certification doesn’t have to be confusing or overwhelming. With the right program, hands-on mentorship, and structured guidance, you can achieve your career goals efficiently and stress-free.
For over two decades, NICCM (National Institute of Child Care Management) has been a trusted leader in fast-track credentialing programs, helping childcare professionals navigate CDA certification, licensing, and career advancement.
Want to get your CDA online with full support? Explore NICCM’s CDA Fast Track Program today! If you have questions, visit our FAQ page or contact us for personalized assistance.