Guide to Obtaining a Dental License in Michigan

This guide covers the main pathways to obtain a dental license in Michigan. The Michigan Board of Dentistry, under the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA), oversees the licensing process.

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 regional clinical examination accepted by the Michigan Board of Dentistry
• Complete a course in infection control
• Hold current CPR certification

Steps:

1. Submit an application through Michigan’s online licensing system (MiPLUS)
2. Provide official transcripts from your dental school
3. Submit NBDE or INBDE scores
4. Submit regional clinical examination scores
5. Provide proof of infection control course completion
6. Submit a copy of your CPR certification
7. Pay the required application fee
8. Complete a jurisprudence examination on Michigan dental laws and rules

2. Licensure by Endorsement (for dentists licensed in 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 regional clinical examination
• Have actively practiced dentistry for at least 3 years immediately 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. Complete a criminal background check

3. Educational Limited License

Purpose:

For individuals participating in a hospital-based specialty program or those employed by a dental school to gain clinical experience.

Requirements:

• Be enrolled in a hospital-based specialty program in Michigan or employed by a dental school
• Hold a dental degree from a CODA-accredited program or equivalent

Steps:

1. Submit an application for an educational limited license
2. Provide proof of enrollment in a specialty program or employment at a dental school
3. Submit dental degree credentials

4. Faculty License

Requirements:

• Be employed as a faculty member at a CODA-accredited dental school in Michigan
• Hold a dental degree from a recognized institution
• Have a minimum of two years of experience in teaching or practicing dentistry

Steps:

1. Submit an application for a faculty license
2. Provide proof of employment at a Michigan dental school
3. Submit dental degree credentials and proof of experience

5. Special Volunteer License

Purpose:

For retired dentists who wish to provide volunteer services at health care facilities.

Requirements:

• Previously held an unrestricted license to practice dentistry in Michigan
• Retired from active practice
• Engaged in practice for at least 20 years prior to retirement

Steps:

1. Submit an application for a special volunteer license
2. Provide proof of previous Michigan licensure and retirement status
3. Submit an affidavit stating the license will only be used for volunteer services

General Notes:

• All applicants must be at least 18 years old and of good moral character
• Licenses must be renewed every three years
• Continuing education requirements must be met for license renewal (60 hours per 3-year cycle)
• The Board may require additional information or an interview from any applicant
• Human Trafficking training is required for all new applicants and for license renewal

For the most current information and specific details, always refer to the Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) website or contact the Michigan Board of Dentistry directly.