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