Take a Red Cross or first aid CPR class. While it was required and completed for the original CDA, they usually expire after one to two years, so if you may need to take it again before applying for your renewal CDA. Texas has many organizations, including the Salvation Army, that can assist with teaching or scheduling a class.
Enroll and complete at least 4.5 continuing education credits. These may be offered through your place of employment or online. You can also substitute this with a three-hour course in Early Education at your local university. In Texas, many community colleges offer early education courses that can be credited toward this requirement.
Document your work history. Your work history must reflect that you have been working with children since the awarding of your original CDA. You will want it to show recent work history, at least in the previous year. Renewing in Texas means you should show some work history in Texas in the recent year.
Ask someone and obtain a letter of recommendation. Obtain a recommendation from another early childhood education professionalwho has seen and knows of your love for and ability to care for children. While a reference from Texas would be great, as it is a national renewal, you can have your recommendation from anywhere in the nation.
Join a national or local childhood education professional organization. Your membership should be current and active. You can choose an organization in Texas or a national child welfare agency. This is a requirement for a renewal CDA.
Purchase a renewal packet. Once you have all of your documentation completed, you can purchase a renewal packet from your local child care regulation agency or online with the CDA council. Fill out the packet and mail it in to the CDA council with an application fee, currently $50. The agency will either let you know that you are approved, or will give you the opportunity to resend any information that may be needed.