Boost your career and earning potential with professional certification. Certified dental assistants in Illinois earn $54,000 - $61,000 — up to 40% more than non-certified peers.
Professional certification sets you apart in Illinois's competitive job market with 6800+ dental practices and demonstrates your commitment to excellence.
Earn $54,000 - $61,000 as a certified DA — up to 40% more than entry-level at $38,500 - $43,500.
Access 4200+ annual openings. Most employers prefer or require certification.
DANB certification is nationally recognized — work anywhere in the US.
Qualify for EFDA and specialized roles with 6% projected growth.
Choose the certification path that matches your career goals. Each certification opens new opportunities in Illinois's dental industry.
Certified Dental Assistant
National Certification
Exam Fee: ~$450 | Annual Renewal: ~$60
Registered Dental Assistant
IL Certification
Requirements vary by state
Expanded Functions DA
Expanded Scope
Availability varies by state
Follow these steps to earn your dental assistant certification and launch your career in Illinois.
Finish an accredited dental assistant program. EHired offers free, self-paced online training that covers all DANB exam topics.
Duration: 3-9 months
Complete hands-on externship or gain work experience. Many Illinois dental practices offer externship opportunities for students.
Duration: 2-4 weeks (externship) or 1+ year (work pathway)
Prepare for the three CDA exam components: General Chairside (GC), Radiation Health and Safety (RHS), and Infection Control (ICE).
Duration: 2-4 weeks of focused study
Take and pass all three DANB CDA component exams. Computer-based tests are available at Pearson VUE testing centers throughout Illinois.
Cost: ~$450 total for all three exams
Receive your CDA credential and start applying for certified positions earning $54,000 - $61,000 across Illinois's 6800+ dental practices.
Maintain certification with annual renewal and continuing education
See how certification and experience affect your earning potential across Illinois.
$22.06/hour average
Cook County – largest market
DuPage, Lake, Will counties
State capital region
Winnebago County area
Illinois's 6800+ dental practices include major DSOs, community health centers, and private practices actively seeking certified dental assistants.
Leading dental employer in Illinois with excellent benefits and career advancement opportunities.
📍 801 S Paulina St, Chicago, IL 60612
📞 (312) 996-7555
👥 ~45+ hires annually
National DSO with multiple IL locations. Structured training, competitive benefits, and career advancement paths.
📍 Multiple IL locations
👥 Ongoing hiring statewide
Major DSO supporting dental practices across Illinois. Known for professional development and team culture.
📍 IL supported practices
👥 Regular opportunities
FQHCs throughout Illinois offering federal benefits, loan repayment programs, and diverse patient populations.
📍 Statewide locations
👥 Mission-driven employers
Leading dental support organization with a strong presence and comprehensive benefits package.
📍 Select IL locations
👥 Career growth focus
6800+ private practices across Illinois offering personalized work environments and competitive wages.
📍 All regions of IL
👥 Majority of job openings
Hear from certified dental assistants who advanced their careers in Illinois.
Maria S.
Chicago • 4 years
"Chicago has endless opportunities in every neighborhood. Bilingual Spanish is a huge plus. I'm earning $52K at a busy Pilsen practice."
Kevin R.
Naperville • 2 years
"Suburbs pay well and have great work-life balance. Commute from the city is easy on Metra. Making $49K with full benefits."
Jasmine W.
Springfield • Recent Graduate
"Started in Springfield serving state workers and families. Lower cost of living than Chicago. Earning $40K with room to grow."
Common questions about dental assistant certification in Illinois.
Illinois dental assistants can pursue several certifications: Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) through DANB is the most recognized national credential. Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) may be required or available depending on state regulations. Expanded Functions Dental Assistant (EFDA) certification allows you to perform advanced procedures. Each certification can increase your earning potential to $54,000 - $61,000.
Certified dental assistants in Illinois typically earn $54,000 - $61,000, compared to $38,500 - $43,500 for entry-level positions. This represents a salary increase of 25-40% with certification. The state average across all experience levels is $45890 ($22.06/hour). Chicago Metro offers the highest wages at $48,000 - $56,000.
To earn your CDA certification, you need: graduation from a CODA-accredited dental assisting program OR completion of an alternative program plus work experience. You must pass three DANB exams: General Chairside Assisting (GC), Radiation Health and Safety (RHS), and Infection Control (ICE). Current CPR certification is also required.
The timeline varies by pathway: completing a dental assistant program takes 3-9 months, studying for exams takes 2-4 weeks of focused preparation, and exam scheduling/results take 2-4 weeks. Total time from starting training to certification is typically 4-12 months. EHired's free online program offers flexible, self-paced training.
Requirements vary by state. While Illinois may not require certification for all positions, most of the 6800+ dental practices prefer or require CDA certification. Certification demonstrates competency, increases job opportunities, and qualifies you for higher-paying positions. Check the IL dental board for current requirements.
Excellent outlook with 6% projected growth through 2034. Illinois's 12.5 million population supports 6800+ dental practices with 4200+ annual job openings. Certified dental assistants have the best prospects and can work throughout the state including Chicago Metro, Chicago Suburbs, and Springfield / Central.
DANB's CDA certification is nationally recognized, making it easier to work in other states. However, each state has its own requirements, so you may need to meet additional criteria. From Illinois, many dental assistants find opportunities in neighboring states like Indiana, Wisconsin, and Missouri. Always verify requirements with the destination state's dental board.
CDA certification requires annual renewal. You must complete continuing education credits and pay a renewal fee (~$60/year). DANB requires specific CE hours in topics like infection control and general dentistry. Many Illinois employers provide CE opportunities, and EHired offers resources to help maintain your credentials.
EHired offers free, comprehensive dental assistant training to prepare you for certification. Train at your own pace and only pay when you're ready to certify.
No credit card required • Accredited institution • Illinois residents welcome