Guide to Obtaining a Dental License in Alaska

This guide outlines the pathways and requirements for obtaining a dental license in the state of Alaska.

Pathways to Licensure

There are three main pathways to obtain a dental license in Alaska:

1. Examination
2. Credentials (License by Credentials)
3. Specialty License

1. Examination Pathway

This is the most common path for new graduates.

Requirements:

• Graduate from a Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) accredited dental school
• Pass the National Board Dental Examination (NBDE) Parts I and II, or the Integrated National Board Dental Examination (INBDE)
• Pass a regional clinical examination accepted by the Alaska Board of Dental Examiners (WREB/CDCA-WREB, CDCA, CRDTS, or SRTA)
• Pass the Alaska Jurisprudence Examination

Steps:

1. Submit an application to the Alaska Board of Dental Examiners
2. Pay the required application fee
3. Provide official transcripts from your dental school
4. Submit NBDE or INBDE scores
5. Submit regional clinical examination scores
6. Pass the Alaska Jurisprudence Examination
7. Complete a background check

2. Credentials Pathway (License by Credentials)

This pathway is for dentists who are already licensed and practicing in another state.

Requirements:

• Hold a current, unrestricted license in another state
• Have been in active clinical practice for at least 3,000 hours within the past five years
• Have no disciplinary actions against your license
• Pass the Alaska Jurisprudence Examination

Steps:

1. Submit an application for licensure by credentials
2. Pay the required application fee
3. Provide verification of licensure from all states where you hold or have held a license
4. Submit proof of active practice hours
5. Provide professional references
6. Pass the Alaska Jurisprudence Examination
7. Complete a background check

3. Specialty License Pathway

This pathway is for dentists seeking licensure in a recognized dental specialty.

Requirements:

• Hold a current, unrestricted license to practice dentistry in another state
• Have completed a CODA-accredited postgraduate specialty program
• Be board certified or board eligible in the specialty
• Pass the Alaska Jurisprudence Examination

Steps:

1. Submit an application for a specialty license
2. Pay the required application fee
3. Provide verification of your general dentistry license
4. Submit proof of completion of a specialty program
5. Provide evidence of board certification or eligibility
6. Pass the Alaska Jurisprudence Examination
7. Complete a background check

Additional Information

• All applicants must be at least 18 years old and of good moral character.
• The Alaska Jurisprudence Examination covers Alaska dental statutes and regulations.
• Licenses must be renewed biennially, and continuing education requirements must be met for renewal.
• Alaska also offers temporary and courtesy licenses for specific situations, such as volunteering or short-term practice.
• Foreign-trained dentists must have their credentials evaluated by an approved credentialing agency and may need to complete additional requirements, including passing the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL).

For the most up-to-date information and specific details, please visit the Alaska Board of Dental Examiners website or contact them directly.