CaliforniaDentist License Requirements

Prerequisite Education

3-4 years undergraduate education (most schools require bachelor's degree); DAT (Dental Admission Test) required for admission

Dentists must earn a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree from a CODA-accredited dental school. Programs typically span 4 years and include extensive clinical training in restorative, surgical, and diagnostic dentistry.

Retake Policy

Must wait 60 days between attempts; max 4 attempts per 12 months; must pass within 5 years of first attempt or 5 attempts (whichever first)

The INBDE (Integrated National Board Dental Examination) replaced the former NBDE Part I and Part II. It is a comprehensive, one-day exam administered by the Joint Commission on National Dental Examinations. Most states also require a regional clinical exam (ADEX, CDCA, WREB, or CRDTS) and some require a state jurisprudence exam.

Many states require separate permits or endorsements for sedation (minimal, moderate, deep, and general anesthesia), laser use, and specialty practice areas. Sedation permits typically require additional training, equipment standards, and facility inspections.

Restricted Activities

• •Practicing medicine beyond the scope of dentistry
• •Administering sedation without proper permit
• •Prescribing controlled substances without DEA registration
• •Performing procedures outside specialty training without appropriate qualifications

Dentists are authorized to diagnose, treat, and manage conditions of the oral cavity. Scope includes restorative, endodontic, periodontic, and prosthodontic procedures, as well as basic oral surgery. Supervision requirements for dental hygienists and assistants vary by state. Most states grant prescriptive authority including controlled substances.

Required CE Topics

Regulatory Board

Dental licenses must be renewed on schedule with the state board. Continuing education requirements typically include infection control, opioid prescribing, CPR, and other state-mandated topics. Many states require specific hours in certain subject areas.

Reciprocity Requirements

• •Active dental license in good standing in another state
• •Graduation from a CODA-accredited DDS or DMD program
• •Passage of the INBDE with passing score
• •Passage of WREB or accepted regional clinical exam
• •Complete California application requirements
• •Pass criminal background check and fingerprinting
• •Submit endorsement application to the Dental Board of California

Most states accept out-of-state dental licenses through endorsement or credentials verification. Requirements typically include passing the INBDE, a regional clinical exam, and meeting active practice requirements. Some states may require additional state-specific exams or clinical evaluations.