RDA Law and Ethics Practice Exam 2026 – Complete Prep Guide

To legally practice as a dental assistant in California, passing the required examinations and obtaining a high school diploma is essential. This requirement ensures that dental assistants possess the necessary foundational education and have demonstrated competence through examinations, which may include proficiency in various areas such as radiography, infection control, and dental law.

Simply completing a dental assisting training program does not meet all the legal requirements since it is not sufficient on its own without the additional qualifications of having a high school diploma and passing state examinations. While working under a licensed dentist may provide valuable experience, it does not confer the legal qualification to practice independently. Additionally, a college degree in dentistry is not a prerequisite for dental assisting roles, as the regulations focus on specific training and examination criteria.

Therefore, the correct path to legal practice in this field in California emphasizes the combination of education and examination success to ensure that dental assistants have the skills and knowledge necessary to provide safe and effective support in a dental practice.