Updated August 13, 2025
If you want to work in dental care without spending years in school, becoming a dental assistant is one of the fastest ways to get started. In California, you can complete your training in less than a year and step into a stable career with plenty of job opportunities. The key is choosing the right school and making sure you meet state licensing requirements.
Below, you'll find the best dental assistant schools in California, how long training usually takes, and the steps you need to take to start working.
When comparing programs, you need to look beyond distance and cost. A quality dental assisting program in California should meet three main standards:
California is one of the stricter states for dental assisting. To work as a licensed Registered Dental Assistant (RDA), you must:
According to the Dental Board of California, anyone seeking an RDA license must complete a Board-approved program and pass both a written and practical exam. Supporting documents such as CPR certification and fingerprint clearance are also required.
Here's a breakdown of the training path:
| Step | Requirement | Where It Happens |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Complete a dental assisting program approved by the Dental Board or CODA | Trade school, community college, or career college |
| 2 | Earn CPR certification from an approved provider | Red Cross or other state-approved source |
| 3 | Pass the California RDA Written Examination | Testing center after program completion |
| 4 | Pass the RDA Practical Examination | State-designated testing facility |
| 5 | Submit fingerprint clearance | Live Scan service provider |
Here are some of the top options you should consider. These programs are either CODA-accredited or approved by the Dental Board of California.
Here's a quick reference chart for the listed schools:
| School | Program Length | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| Sacramento City College | 10 months | CODA |
| Pasadena City College | 11 months | Board-approved |
| San Diego Mesa College | 10 months | CODA |
| Cerritos College | 11 months | Board-approved |
| American Career College | ~9 months | Board-approved |
| UEI College | ~9 months | Board-approved |
The state also offers an Unlicensed Dental Assistant (UDA) category, which allows you to work in a limited capacity while completing requirements.
If you are serious about becoming a dental assistant in California, your first move is to choose a Board-approved or CODA-accredited program. Then, map out your licensing steps so you can move from training into employment without delays. Contact at least two schools from the list above to compare costs, schedules, and support services.
Tip: The Dental Board of California keeps an updated list of approved dental assisting programs - check it before you enroll.
Starting your training this year means you could be working in a dental office helping patients in less than 12 months. That's the kind of timeline many people are looking for when they want a quick but reliable career path in healthcare.
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