Guide to Obtaining a Dental License in Alabama

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

Pathways to Licensure

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

1. Examination
2. Credentials (License by Credentials)
3. National Board Dental Examination (NBDE) Certification

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
• Pass a regional clinical examination (ADEX, CDCA, CITA, CRDTS, or SRTA)
• Pass the Alabama Dental Jurisprudence Examination

Steps:

1. Submit an application to the Board of Dental Examiners of Alabama
2. Pay the required application fee
3. Provide official transcripts from your dental school
4. Submit NBDE scores
5. Submit regional clinical examination scores
6. Pass the Alabama Dental 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 practice for at least 5,000 hours over the past five years
• Have no disciplinary actions against your license
• Pass the Alabama Dental 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 letters of recommendation
6. Pass the Alabama Dental Jurisprudence Examination
7. Complete a background check

3. National Board Dental Examination (NBDE) Certification Pathway

This pathway is for dentists who have passed the NBDE but haven’t taken a regional clinical exam.

Requirements:

• Graduate from a CODA-accredited dental school
• Pass the NBDE Parts I and II
• Complete a one-year residency program accredited by CODA
• Pass the Alabama Dental Jurisprudence Examination

Steps:

1. Submit an application to the Board of Dental Examiners of Alabama
2. Pay the required application fee
3. Provide official transcripts from your dental school
4. Submit NBDE scores
5. Provide proof of completion of a one-year residency program
6. Pass the Alabama Dental Jurisprudence Examination
7. Complete a background check

Additional Information

• All applicants must be at least 19 years old and of good moral character.
• The Alabama Dental Jurisprudence Examination covers the Alabama Dental Practice Act and the Board’s administrative rules.
• Licenses must be renewed annually, and continuing education requirements must be met for renewal.
• Foreign-trained dentists must have their credentials evaluated by an approved credentialing agency and may need to complete additional requirements.

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