Guide to Obtaining a Dental License in Delaware

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

Pathways to Licensure

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

1. Examination
2. Reciprocity
3. Licensure by Credentials

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 Delaware Board of Dentistry and Dental Hygiene (ADEX, CDCA, CRDTS, SRTA, or WREB)
• Complete a course in infection control
• Complete a course in CPR

Steps:

1. Submit an application to the Delaware Board of Dentistry and Dental Hygiene
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. Provide proof of completion of infection control and CPR courses
7. Complete a criminal background check

2. Reciprocity Pathway

This pathway is for dentists licensed in states with which Delaware has a reciprocal agreement.

Requirements:

• Hold a current, active license in good standing in a state with which Delaware has a reciprocal agreement
• Have been actively practicing for at least 3 of the 5 years immediately preceding application
• Have passed a clinical examination substantially similar to that required by Delaware
• Complete a course in infection control
• Complete a course in CPR

Steps:

1. Submit an application for licensure by reciprocity
2. Pay the required application fee
3. Provide verification of licensure from the reciprocal state
4. Submit proof of active practice
5. Provide evidence of passing a clinical examination
6. Provide proof of completion of infection control and CPR courses
7. Complete a criminal background check

3. Licensure by Credentials Pathway

This pathway is for dentists who are already licensed and practicing in another state but do not qualify for reciprocity.

Requirements:

• Hold a current, active license in good standing in another state
• Have been actively practicing for at least 3 of the 5 years immediately preceding application
• Have passed a clinical examination substantially similar to that required by Delaware
• Complete a course in infection control
• Complete a course in CPR

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
5. Provide evidence of passing a clinical examination
6. Provide proof of completion of infection control and CPR courses
7. Complete a criminal background check

Additional Information

• All applicants must be at least 18 years old and of good moral character.
• Delaware does not have a separate jurisprudence examination, but applicants are expected to be familiar with the state’s dental laws and regulations.
• Licenses must be renewed biennially, and continuing education requirements must be met for renewal.
• Delaware requires dentists to maintain current CPR certification.
• The state offers a restricted volunteer license for retired dentists who wish to provide volunteer services.
• Foreign-trained dentists must have their credentials evaluated by a board-approved credentialing service and must complete additional requirements, including passing an English proficiency exam if educated in a non-English speaking country.

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