Your Title is Changing: What BC Dental Assistants Need to Know

On April 1, 2026, your title changes from Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) to Licensed Dental Assistant (LDA). This page tells you exactly what that means for you — and what you need to do next. Find your situation below.

I'm a practising CDA in good standing

You're in the simplest situation. On April 1, 2026, your licence updates automatically to Licensed Dental Assistant (LDA). Your scope of practice, modules, and day-to-day work stay the same.

What you need to do:

• Confirm your BCCOHP account information is current and fees are paid

• Make sure you have your own professional liability insurance in place — you'll confirm this at renewal

• Renew your LDA licence each year on the April 1 – March 31 cycle

Log in to BCCOHP

My BCCOHP status is Temporary or Limited

You have extra steps and deadlines. Don't wait — your path to a full LDA licence depends on meeting specific requirements within set timeframes.

What you need to do:

• Log in to your BCCOHP account and check your exact status and any conditions on your registration

• Review the specific pathway for Temporary or Limited registrants

• Contact BCCOHP directly if you're unsure what your conditions mean or when your deadline is

Check your BCCOHP status

I'm a student or recent graduate

If you're currently in a dental assisting program or recently graduated, you'll enter the profession directly as an LDA — there is no CDA step for you. Your school or program will guide you through the BCCOHP registration process.

What you need to do:

• Talk to your program coordinator about your registration timeline with BCCOHP

• Register with BCCOHP as an LDA once you meet the requirements

• Connect with CDABC early — student and new-grad support is part of what we do

Learn about CDABC student membership