Guide to Obtaining a Dental License in New Jersey

This guide covers the main pathways to obtain a dental license in New Jersey. The New Jersey State Board of Dentistry 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 New Jersey State Board of Dentistry
• Complete a jurisprudence examination on New Jersey dental laws and rules
• Hold current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification

Steps:

1. Submit an application to the New Jersey State Board of Dentistry
2. Provide official transcripts from your dental school
3. Submit NBDE or INBDE scores
4. Submit clinical examination scores
5. Complete and pass the New Jersey jurisprudence examination
6. Submit a copy of your BLS certification
7. Pay the required application fee
8. Provide a recent photograph
9. 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 immediately preceding the application
• Have completed 40 hours of continuing education in the past 2 years

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. Provide five professional references

3. Limited Teaching License

Purpose:

For dentists employed as faculty members at an accredited dental education program in New Jersey.

Requirements:

• Be employed as a faculty member at a CODA-accredited dental program in New Jersey
• Hold a dental degree from a recognized institution
• Have completed a dental specialty education program accredited by CODA (for specialty faculty positions)

Steps:

1. Submit an application for a limited teaching license
2. Provide proof of employment at a New Jersey dental education program
3. Submit dental degree credentials and specialty program completion (if applicable)
4. Complete a criminal background check

4. Limited Resident Permit

Purpose:

For dentists participating in a residency program at an approved New Jersey healthcare facility or dental school.

Requirements:

• Be accepted into an approved residency program in New Jersey
• Hold a dental degree from a CODA-accredited program or equivalent

Steps:

1. Submit an application for a limited resident permit
2. Provide proof of acceptance into a New Jersey residency program
3. Submit dental degree credentials
4. Complete a criminal background check

5. Temporary Courtesy License

Purpose:

For out-of-state dentists to provide volunteer dental services in New Jersey for a limited time.

Requirements:

• Hold a current, valid dental license in another U.S. state
• Be invited by a sponsoring entity to provide free dental care in New Jersey
• Limit practice to a specific charitable event or organization

Steps:

1. Submit an application for a temporary courtesy license
2. Provide verification of current licensure in good standing
3. Submit details of the charitable event or organization
4. Obtain sponsorship from a New Jersey-licensed dentist or approved organization

General Notes:

• All applicants must be at least 18 years old and of good moral character
• Licenses must be renewed biennially
• Continuing education requirements must be met for license renewal (40 hours per 2-year cycle)
• 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, parenteral sedation, or enteral sedation
• New Jersey requires dentists to complete a one-time course on opioid prescribing practices
• The state has specific requirements for infection control practices and sterilization procedures

For the most current information and specific details, always refer to the New Jersey State Board of Dentistry website or contact them directly.