The profession of dentistry should be shaped by the people who practice it—people like you. CDA provides opportunities for our members to learn, grow and be inspired to provide the best care possible. Our resources are designed to support dentists throughout all stages of their careers from dental school to nearing retirement. Our community of dentists is nearly 25,000 members strong… and growing.

By becoming a member of organized dentistry, you’re ensuring that your voice and the needs of the profession are being represented on every level. Whether you are looking for education, practice support, protection, or for a stronger voice in government, you’ve come to the right place.

Members also enjoy these benefits:

• Waive the $890 registration fee to CDA Presents, the twice-yearly convention in Anaheim and San Francisco. You can also access 50 FREE units of C.E. and receive show discounted pricing on dental equipment and supplies.
• Access cdacompass.com, a website with hundreds of valuable resources to help you better manage the business side of dentistry. Top resources include the Guide for the New Dentist, the Legal Reference Guide for California Dentists, Regulatory Compliance manual with unlimited phone support and downloadable sample employee manual.
• Apply for professional insurance needs and experience generous multipolicy discounts with TDIC Optimum when you bundle your Professional Liability, Building and Business Personal Property and Workers’ Compensation insurance.
• Plus, there’s job assistance, Risk Management advice line, Peer Review and much more.

It’s now easier than ever to become a CDA tripartite member. You are eligible if you are a licensed dentist in California, a full-time faculty member at one of the six California dental schools, or a California dentist serving full-time military duty. One application handles your membership for ADA, CDA and your local society.

Current annual CDA membership dues are $690, although special rates are available for full-time faculty members, recent graduates, recent licentiates and federal military professionals. Current American Dental Association dues are $522. Each local dental society also charges dues. Dues for your local society vary, and you will be contacted with a dues quote once your application is received.

Yes. Simply register for our Electronic Dues Payment (EDP) program to divide your CDA dues into easy monthly payments.

What’s more, because we understand that you’re just getting started, your CDA dues will be reduced for the next four years.

To apply for membership, follow these simple steps:

1. Complete the online application. After licensure, you will become a member of the ADA, CDA and the local dental society closest to your school.
2. When you establish a permanent address, contact your local dental society or update your profile online. 
   *If you’ve moved out of the current dental society jurisdiction, please contact CDA (800.CDA.SMILE) to transfer your membership to the appropriate dental society.