Guide to Obtaining a Dental License in Nevada

This guide covers the main pathways to obtain a dental license in Nevada. The Nevada State Board of Dental Examiners oversees the licensing process for dentists in the state.

1. Standard Pathway (for new graduates)

Requirements:

• Graduate from a dental school accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA)
• 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 Nevada State Board of Dental Examiners
• Complete a course in infection control approved by the Board
• Hold current CPR certification
• Complete a course in bioterrorism approved by the Board

Steps:

1. Submit an application to the Nevada State Board of Dental Examiners
2. Provide official transcripts from your dental school
3. Submit NBDE or INBDE scores
4. Submit clinical examination scores
5. Provide proof of completion of the infection control course
6. Submit a copy of your CPR certification
7. Provide proof of completion of the bioterrorism course
8. Pay the required application fee
9. Provide a recent photograph
10. Submit to a criminal background check

2. Licensure by Credentials (for experienced dentists from other states)

Requirements:

• Hold a current, valid dental license in another U.S. state
• Have graduated from a CODA-accredited dental program
• Have passed the NBDE or INBDE
• Have passed a clinical examination
• Have actively practiced dentistry for at least 5 years (or 3 years with a specialty) immediately preceding the application
• Have completed 20 hours of continuing education in the 12 months preceding the application

Additional Steps:

1. Submit verification of licensure from all states where you’ve held a dental license
2. Provide proof of active practice (e.g., employer letters, tax documents)
3. Submit certificates of completion for continuing education
4. Complete the infection control and bioterrorism courses (if not already completed)

3. Limited License

Purpose:

For dentists employed by or under contract with a federal, state, or local government entity in Nevada.

Requirements:

• Be employed by or under contract with a qualifying government entity
• Hold a valid dental license in another U.S. state
• Meet all standard requirements for licensure

Steps:

1. Submit an application for a limited license
2. Provide proof of employment or contract with a government entity
3. Submit verification of current licensure in another state
4. Complete all steps required for standard licensure

4. Restricted Geographical License

Purpose:

For dentists to practice in underserved areas of Nevada.

Requirements:

• Meet all standard requirements for licensure
• Agree to practice only in specific geographical areas designated by the Board

Steps:

1. Submit an application for a restricted geographical license
2. Complete all steps required for standard licensure
3. Sign an agreement to practice only in designated areas

5. Specialty License

Purpose:

For dentists who have completed a specialty program and wish to limit their practice to that specialty.

Requirements:

• Meet all standard requirements for licensure
• Have completed a CODA-accredited specialty program
• Have passed a specialty board examination (if available for the specialty)

Steps:

1. Submit an application for a specialty license
2. Provide proof of completion of a specialty program
3. Submit specialty board examination scores (if applicable)
4. Complete all steps required for standard licensure

General Notes:

• All applicants must be at least 21 years old and of good moral character
• Licenses must be renewed annually by June 30
• Continuing education requirements must be met for license renewal (20 hours per year)
• The Board may require additional information or an interview from any applicant
• All licensees must maintain professional liability insurance
• Dentists must obtain a separate permit for administration of general anesthesia, deep sedation, or moderate sedation
• Nevada has specific requirements for dental assistants and hygienists working under a dentist’s supervision

For the most current information and specific details, always refer to the Nevada State Board of Dental Examiners website or contact them directly.