Guide to Obtaining a Dental License in Montana

This guide covers the main pathways to obtain a dental license in Montana. The Montana 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 Montana Board of Dentistry
• Complete a jurisprudence examination on Montana dental laws and rules
• Hold current CPR certification

Steps:

1. Submit an application to the Montana 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 Montana jurisprudence examination
6. Submit a copy of your CPR certification
7. Pay the required application fee
8. Provide a recent photograph
9. Submit to a fingerprint background check

2. Licensure by Credential (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 60 hours of continuing education in the past three 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 three professional references

3. Nonresident Volunteer License

Purpose:

For out-of-state dentists to provide volunteer dental services in Montana.

Requirements:

• Hold a current, valid dental license in another U.S. state
• Be retired from active practice or actively licensed and in good standing
• Provide services without compensation or expectation of compensation

Steps:

1. Submit an application for a nonresident volunteer license
2. Provide verification of current or retired licensure in good standing
3. Submit a detailed plan of the volunteer services to be provided
4. Complete a fingerprint background check

4. Temporary License

Purpose:

For dentists licensed in other states to practice temporarily in Montana for a specific purpose (e.g., to provide care in underserved areas or during emergencies).

Requirements:

• Hold a current, valid dental license in another U.S. state
• Have a specific, board-approved reason for temporary practice in Montana

Steps:

1. Submit an application for a temporary license
2. Provide verification of current licensure in another state
3. Submit a detailed explanation of the purpose for temporary practice
4. Pay the required fee

5. Restricted Temporary License for Charitable Dental Care

Purpose:

For out-of-state dentists to provide short-term charitable dental care in Montana.

Requirements:

• Hold a current, valid dental license in another U.S. state
• Provide services without compensation or expectation of compensation
• Limit practice to a specific charitable event or organization

Steps:

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

General Notes:

• All applicants must be at least 18 years old and of good moral character
• Licenses must be renewed annually by March 1
• 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
• All licensees must maintain professional liability insurance
• Montana is a member of the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact, which may facilitate licensure for dentists licensed in other member states
• Dentists must register any facilities where they provide conscious sedation or general anesthesia

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