| CDA’s offices will be closed Dec. 25 – Jan. 1. While you can apply or manage your current membership online at any time, please allow additional processing time for new applications. We expect to process all pending applications within the first week of the new year. |
CDA Membership FAQ
Membership & Eligibility
California dentists and dental students are eligible for CDA membership. General membership is also available to dental hygienists, dental assistants, laboratory technicians and other members of the dental team, as well as to dentists who reside or practice outside of California.
By joining, California dentists automatically enjoy membership and services to three dental organizations: their local dental society, CDA and the ADA. This structure provides support at the local, state and national levels.
Create an online account or sign in if you already have one. Then, follow the prompts to complete one easy application using your license or ADA number.
While the CDA membership year had been running from January 1 to December 31, we transitioned to anniversary date renewal for members joining after June 10, 2024. The membership year will be a rolling one that’s based on the date you joined CDA or your last renewal. This means you’ll have 12 months between dues payments (unless you break your dues into convenient monthly payments).
For many members, renewal invoices will be available in late fall of each year for the coming year. Starting in 2025, each new member’s renewal date will be based on the date they joined CDA.
You’ll receive an email notice when it’s time to renew, and statements are available within My Account on cda.org. If you’re not already enrolled in automated monthly payments, you’ll also receive a statement by mail. Multiple online payment options are available.
If you’re a current member who has signed up for automated payments, your membership will automatically renew each year, and no action is needed unless you want to change your voluntary contributions. To make your membership payment in full or enroll in autopay, sign in to My Account, choose Renewal Orders and follow the prompts to Pay Dues.
Email CDA or call 800.232.7645 so a representative can help you complete a membership application. You will need to apply to re-join CDA and regain access to membership benefits.
Yes! If you already paid annual dues, your membership in organized dentistry will transfer to California. Contact CDA so a representative can help you complete an application and pay dues (if needed) or ensure that you will not have to pay dues if you’ve already paid them in another state. You’ll also want to create an online account to update your profile, including current contact information and communication preferences.
An active or retired member dentist who is in good standing for at least 30 consecutive years (or a total of 35 years if there was a break in membership) and who has reached 65 years of age or older the previous calendar year is eligible for life membership. Member dentists who attain the requirements for life membership may qualify for discounted dues. Contact CDA for dues owed as life member.
CDA members who retire from the practice of dentistry and who do not earn income from performing any dental-related activity become eligible for retired membership the year following retirement. Members are required to submit an affidavit of retirement to CDA.
Dues Payments
Active or life-active CDA member-dentists can break their dues into convenient monthly payments. With autopay, equal monthly payments are automatically deducted from your chosen checking or savings account or credit card on or around the 15th of the month until paid in full. Your membership will automatically renew each year.
If you’re new to CDA: You can choose autopay during the membership application process. When prompted to choose a payment option, select Monthly Payment (1 year) and follow the on-screen steps.
If you’re a current member who would like to enroll in autopay: You can choose autopay during the online renewal process. When prompted to choose a payment option, select Monthly Payment (1 year) and follow the on-screen steps. Upon enrollment, you’ll receive confirmation and a monthly payment schedule.
Email CDA or call a representative at 800.232.7645 for assistance.
Autopay has an annual service charge of $12, which is equally divided among the months of the year. If a deduction is declined due to insufficient funds, a closed account or stopped payment, a $25 fee will be charged.
To change the account or method for your automated payments, contact CDA and speak to a helpful representative.
You can change the checking, savings or credit card for autopay at any time or make a payment in full that will cancel future monthly payments.
