This study tested hypotheses concerning perceived and real consequences of certification for individuals who earned a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential in Illinois. Primary hypotheses were that the majority of CDAs would indicate that earning the CDA credential had made a positive difference to them, made their job better, and increased their salary. Also assessed were the propositions that the impact of certification on the recipient would differ according to the recipient's level of educational achievement at the time the credential was earned and according to the population density of the area in which the CDA was employed. Data were collected using a questionnaire specifically designed for the study. Participants were 184 out of 374 CDA recipients in Illinois (49%). Results are discussed and the questionnaire is appended, along with comments made by respondents. (RH)