Guide to Obtaining a Dental License in Nebraska

This guide covers the main pathways to obtain a dental license in Nebraska. The Nebraska Board of Dentistry, under the Department of Health and Human Services, 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 Nebraska Board of Dentistry
• Complete a jurisprudence examination on Nebraska dental laws and rules
• Hold current CPR certification

Steps:

1. Submit an application to the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services
2. Provide official transcripts from your dental school
3. Submit NBDE or INBDE scores
4. Submit clinical examination scores
5. Complete and pass the Nebraska 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 criminal background check

2. Licensure Based on Years of Practice (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 actively practiced dentistry for at least three years immediately preceding the application
• Have completed 50 hours of continuing education in the past two 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. Faculty License

Purpose:

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

Requirements:

• Be employed as a faculty member at a CODA-accredited dental program in Nebraska
• 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 faculty license
2. Provide proof of employment at a Nebraska dental education program
3. Submit dental degree credentials and specialty program completion (if applicable)
4. Complete a criminal background check

4. Temporary License

Purpose:

For dentists licensed in other states to practice temporarily in Nebraska 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 Nebraska

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. Volunteer License

Purpose:

For retired dentists to provide volunteer dental services in Nebraska.

Requirements:

• Have held a valid, unrestricted license to practice dentistry in any state
• Be retired from active practice
• Provide services without compensation or expectation of compensation

Steps:

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

General Notes:

• All applicants must be at least 19 years old and of good moral character
• Licenses must be renewed biennially by March 1 of even-numbered years
• Continuing education requirements must be met for license renewal (30 hours per 2-year cycle)
• The Board may require additional information or an interview from any applicant
• All licensees must maintain professional liability insurance
• Nebraska is a member of the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact, which may facilitate licensure for dentists licensed in other member states
• Dentists must obtain a separate permit for administration of general anesthesia, deep sedation, moderate sedation, or minimal sedation

For the most current information and specific details, always refer to the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services website or contact the Board of Dentistry directly.