Membership

CDHA offers numerous different membership types.

Professional - $260

Professional membership may be granted to any individual who: (i) has either earned a certificate or professional degree in dental hygiene granted pursuant to a dental hygiene program offered by an accredited college or institution of higher education or is licensed to practice dental hygiene in the United States under the provision of a "grandfather clause:" and (ii) is licensed to practice in any state, territory or possession of the United States if such license is required for the practice of dental hygiene; and (iii) agrees to maintain membership in a component if one exists where the member is licensed, practices or resides.

Professional members may pay their dues quarterly for $70/quarter. Out-of-State Professional member dues are $230 annually.

New Professional - $145

For a term of two years, New Professional membership may be granted to any individual who: (i) initially granted dental hygiene licensure in California; and (ii) who joined CDHA within six (6) months from initial licensure date; and (iii) who earned a degree from an accredited dental hygiene program within the past twelve (12) months. The New Professional membership will convert to a Professional membership after two years. *This category does not include newly licensed RDHAP's.

Student - $50

Student members of CDHA must currently be enrolled in an accredited dental hygiene program in California. Student member dues are $50 for the full term of your program, valid until your graduation date (limit two years).

Student Second Year - $25

Membership intended for dental hygiene students joining in their second year. Student members of CDHA must currently be enrolled in an accredited dental hygiene program in California. Second Year Student member dues are $25 and are open to students in their second year of a dental hygiene program, valid until your graduation date (limit one year).

Senior Members - $145

Membership may be granted to any individual who (i) has reached the age of 65, (ii) had a license to practice dental hygiene, and (iii) agrees to maintain membership in a Component (if such exist where the member is licensed, practices or resides).

Supporting - $145

Membership intended for non-hygienist supporting members. This includes dental assistants and dentists. Supporting membership is available to any individual who supports the purpose and mission of the CDHA and is not licensed to practice dental hygiene in California or classified as a Senior member. Supporting members are "non-voting" members.

Lifetime Member - By Nomination Only

Any voting member in good standing, who meets the Life Membership Guidelines/Criteria with a minimum of thirty (30) years CDHA membership, shall be eligible for Life Membership, along with meeting the following: 

• The candidate shall have mentored others to CDHA positions of leadership.
• The candidate shall be recognized by peers as a role model for contributions to the Dental Hygiene profession within the six (6) roles of dental hygiene.
• The candidate shall have evidence of active leadership participation in state elected positions as an Officer or Speaker of the House Component/Regional Trustee, CalHyPac Chair, Councils Chairs, and /or CDHA Foundation Chair. 

Upon nomination to the Board of Trustees by a component trustee or a CDHA member, the Board of Trustees may then recommend candidates for Life Membership to the House of Delegates. Approved candidate(s) shall be presented to the House of Delegates for election by a ¾ vote of approval by ballot of those present and voting.  Full criteria is included in the application.