Your CDA® Comeback: The Door Is Open Again!

Life happens. Dreams get put on hold. But sometimes, you get a perfect opportunity to pick up where you left off. That’s exactly what’s happening with the return of the CDA® Renewal Amnesty Program, launched in celebration of the CDA’s 50th anniversary!

Did your credential expire? Here’s your fresh start. If your CDA® expired anytime after January 1, 2020, you can now make it active again through this special program running February 1 – July 31, 2025. Whether the pandemic shifted your priorities or life simply took you in a different direction, this is your chance to reconnect with your early childhood education career.

Quick Facts About the Program:

  • Available through July 31, 2025
  • Renewal fee: $125 online ($150 for paper applications)
  • Training must be within the last three years
  • Must meet current renewal requirements
  • Download the CDA® Renewal Procedures Guide for complete details

Why Renew Now?

  • The field needs you: There’s growing demand for CDA-credentialed educators
  • Career opportunities: Many states are expanding requirements for CDA credentials
  • Professional growth: Stay current with best practices in early childhood education

CCEI’s Got You Covered

We offer comprehensive CDA renewal training programs designed to meet your specific needs:

English Programs:

Programas en Español:

Ready to Take Action? Here’s Your Renewal Roadmap:

  1. Visit the Council for Professional Recognition to:
    • Download and review the CDA® Renewal Procedures Guide
    • Understand all current renewal requirements
    • Access your YourCouncil account
  1. Complete a self-audit of your renewal requirements:
    • Check if your work experience is current (within the past year)
    • Verify if you need to complete the 45-hour training requirement
    • Review all other Council requirements
  1. If you need training, choose your CCEI renewal program that matches your credential type – we offer comprehensive programs in English and Spanish
  2. Submit your completed application and $125 fee to the Council by July 31st

⚠️ Pro Tip: Don’t wait to get started! Begin your training early to ensure you have plenty of time to complete all Council requirements by the deadline. Remember: the Council will not grant extensions.

Begin Your Renewal Journey →