Dental licensure

Every dentist must go through the licensure process at least once during their professional life. Find out how to obtain your license.

The 3 requirements for licensure

In the U.S., licensure requirements are set by the state board of dentistry, also known as the board of dental examiners or licensing board. Although licensure requirements vary by state and territory, all licensure candidates must meet three basic requirements: educational requirement, written examination, and clinical assessment.

Educational requirement
Nearly all states require a D.D.S. or D.M.D. degree from a university-based dental education program accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA).

Written assessment. All U.S. licensing jurisdictions require applicants to pass the Integrated National Board Dental Examination (INBDE). The INBDE, developed in response to changes in educational curricula and instructional methods, was launched in August 2020 and replaced the NBDE Part I and Part II. Learn more about the INBDE.

Clinical assessment
Applicants for dental licensure in most U.S. licensing jurisdictions are subject to a clinical assessment. Most state boards of dentistry rely on third-party testing agencies to administer a clinical assessment and acceptance varies by state and territory. View clinical assessments accepted by each state and territory.

Additional information

State dental boards

Find contact information for each state and territory.

Guide

Dental licensure maps

View the examinations, credentials, and CE requirements for each state/territory.

Map

New Dentist Committee

Help shape the future of dentistry. Get involved with the New Dentist Committee.

Action

ADA licensure policies

While the American Dental Association recognizes and supports a state's right to regulate dental licensure, it has adopted policies on licensure issues, including licensure mobility for dentists, specialty licensure and the elimination of patients in clinical assessment process.

ADA licensure policy

Learn more about the ADA comprehensive licensure policy and how it has evolved.

Ethical considerations policy

Review Ethical Considerations When Using Patients in the Clinical Examination Process.

Task Force Report (PDF)

Read the report that discusses contemporary approaches to licensure for modern needs.

Article

Ready to obtain your first dental license? Learn about the examinations and varying state requirements.

See student requirements

Learn how to obtain a dental license in a new jurisdiction by using your existing credentials.

Use your credentials

Still have licensure questions?

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Please note: response times for submitted questions may vary. Licensure questions typically take from 2 to 9 days to resolve. Your inquiry is important to us and we'll do our best to assist you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your patience!

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