Guide to Obtaining a Dental License in Arizona

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

Pathways to Licensure

There are four main pathways to obtain a dental license in Arizona:

1. Examination
2. Credential (License by Credential)
3. Specialty
4. Universal Recognition

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 clinical examination accepted by the Arizona State Board of Dental Examiners (WREB/CDCA-WREB, CDCA, CRDTS, or SRTA)
• Pass the Arizona Dental Jurisprudence Examination

Steps:

1. Submit an application to the Arizona State 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 clinical examination scores
6. Pass the Arizona Dental Jurisprudence Examination
7. Complete a fingerprint clearance card application for a background check

2. Credential Pathway (License by Credential)

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 or teaching for at least 5,000 hours during the five years immediately preceding application
• Have no disciplinary actions against your license
• Pass the Arizona Dental Jurisprudence Examination

Steps:

1. Submit an application for licensure by credential
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 or teaching hours
5. Provide a letter of endorsement from the licensing board of the state where you practice
6. Pass the Arizona Dental Jurisprudence Examination
7. Complete a fingerprint clearance card application for a background check

3. Specialty License Pathway

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

Requirements:

• Hold a general dentistry license in good standing in another state
• Have completed a CODA-accredited postgraduate specialty program
• Be board certified in the specialty
• Pass the Arizona Dental 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
6. Pass the Arizona Dental Jurisprudence Examination
7. Complete a fingerprint clearance card application for a background check

4. Universal Recognition Pathway

This pathway is unique to Arizona and allows for licensure based on being licensed in another state for at least one year.

Requirements:

• Be currently licensed as a dentist in at least one other state for at least one year
• Be in good standing in all states where licensed
• Establish residency in Arizona
• Meet Arizona’s fingerprint clearance card requirements
• Pass the Arizona Dental Jurisprudence Examination

Steps:

1. Submit an application for licensure by universal recognition
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 Arizona residency
5. Pass the Arizona Dental Jurisprudence Examination
6. Complete a fingerprint clearance card application for a background check

Additional Information

• All applicants must be at least 18 years old and of good moral character.
• The Arizona Dental Jurisprudence Examination covers Arizona dental laws and rules.
• Licenses must be renewed triennially, and continuing education requirements must be met for renewal.
• Arizona offers a restricted permit for dentists employed by or under contract with a public health agency or institution.
• Foreign-trained dentists must have their credentials evaluated by an approved credentialing agency and may need to complete additional requirements, including passing an English proficiency exam.

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