ADVERTISEMENT SmileCon Store Join Login Why Join Education Advocacy Publications Resources Search Licensure Licensure by credentials Licensure for international dentists Student licensure 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 requirements vary from state to state, all dental licensure applicants must meet three basic requirements: educational, written examination, and clinical examination. Educational 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 examination All U.S. licensing jurisdictions require licensure candidates to pass Part I and Part II of the written National Board Dental Examination (NBDE). NBDE Part I and Part II are being discontinued and replaced by the Integrated National Board Dental Examination (INBDE). The INBDE was developed in response to changes in educational curricula and instructional methods and launched August 1, 2020. Learn more about the INBDE. Clinical examination Candidates for dental licensure in most U.S. licensing jurisdictions are subject to a clinical examination requirement. Most state boards of dentistry rely on regional testing agencies to administer a clinical examination. State dental boards Review each state’s specific licensure requirements and contact information. Licensure dashboard & maps View the exams, credentials, and CE requirements for each state/territory. Initial licensure for students Ready to obtain your first dental license? Learn about the examinations and varying state requirements. See student requirements Licensure by credentials Learn how to obtain a dental license in a new jurisdiction by using your existing credentials. Use your credentials ADA licensure policy See how ADA licensure policy has evolved. Ethical considerations policy Review Ethical Considerations When Using Patients in the Clinical Examination Process. Task Force Report Read the report that discusses contemporary approaches to licensure for modern needs. COVID-19 updates for all testing candidates COVID-19 Testing Update (PDF) ADVERTISEMENT ADA About Press Releases ADA Jobs Contact Advertise Media Kit Product Portfolio Publication Rates Ad Standards Digital Advertising Contact Chat Now Email us 312.440.2500 Accessibility Privacy Notice Terms of Use © 2021 American Dental Association