Exam Details
The ADA Certification Examination evaluates your readiness to provide professional postpartum doula care. The exam consists of a written portion and a practical evaluation, both designed to assess your knowledge of evidence-based practices and hands-on competency. Candidates who pass receive an ADA certification valid for one year.
Exam Overview
The ADA Certification Examination evaluates your readiness to provide professional postpartum doula care. The exam consists of a written portion and a practical evaluation, both designed to assess your knowledge of evidence-based practices and hands-on competency. Candidates who pass receive an ADA certification valid for one year.
Exam Details
Exam Fee
$625
Certificate Validity
1 year
Retake Fee
$325
Exam ID Format
YY-NNNNN (e.g., 25-80301)
Languages
English, Chinese, Japanese, Korean
What to Expect
Written Exam
- •60-minute timed examination
- •Multiple choice and short answer questions
- •Covers postpartum care, newborn care, and cultural competency
- •Available in 4 languages
Practical Exam
- •30-minute one-on-one evaluation
- •Hands-on demonstration of doula skills
- •Assessed by a certified ADA examiner
- •Evaluates practical competency and communication
Frequently Asked Questions
The written exam covers postpartum care fundamentals, newborn care, breastfeeding support, cultural competency, safety protocols, and client communication. Questions are a mix of multiple choice and short answer, designed to assess your knowledge of evidence-based postpartum care practices.
The practical exam is a 30-minute one-on-one evaluation with a certified examiner. You will demonstrate hands-on skills including newborn handling, swaddling, bathing techniques, postpartum recovery support, and your ability to communicate effectively with families from diverse cultural backgrounds.
Yes. ADA offers the certification exam in English, Chinese (Mandarin), Japanese, and Korean. Please specify your preferred language when registering for the exam. All exam materials, including instructions and questions, will be provided in your chosen language.
If you do not pass on your first attempt, you may retake the exam for a fee of $325. You must wait at least 30 days before retaking the exam. We recommend reviewing the areas identified for improvement and consulting with your training program before reattempting.
After completing an ADA-approved training program, your training provider will guide you through the exam registration process. You can also contact ADA directly at contact@asiandoula.org or call (714) 202-6501 to register.
Exams are administered at the ADA training center located at 7515 Irvine Center Drive, #110, Irvine, CA 92618. Additional exam locations may be available depending on demand. Contact us for the latest schedule.
Results are typically communicated within 2 weeks of your exam date. Once you pass, your ADA certification and exam ID will be issued and you can begin practicing as a certified doula.
Ready to take the exam? Start with Step 1.
Steps to CertificationLet's Connect and Support Families Together!
Whether you're interested in becoming a certified doula, looking for postpartum support, or want to learn more about our programs, we'd love to hear from you.