Guide to Obtaining a Dental License in New Mexico

General Requirements

• Be at least 18 years old
• 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 New Mexico Board of Dental Health Care

Pathways to Licensure

1. Initial Licensure

• Complete all general requirements
• Pass one of the following clinical examams:
• Western Regional Examining Board (WREB)
• Central Regional Dental Testing Service (CRDTS)
• Commission on Dental Competency Assessments (CDCA)
• Submit a completed application with required documentation and fees

2. Licensure by Credentials

For dentists licensed and practicing in another state:

• Have an active license in good standing from another state
• Have been in active practice for at least 3 of the past 5 years
• Pass the New Mexico Jurisprudence Exam
• Provide proof of continuing education credits
• Submit a completed application with required documentation and fees

3. Temporary Licensure

For dentists participating in dental residency programs:

• Be accepted into a New Mexico dental residency program
• Submit a completed application with required documentation and fees
• License is valid only for the duration of the residency program

4. Public Service Licensure

For dentists working in designated public health clinics:

• Meet all requirements for initial licensure
• Agree to work in a designated public health clinic
• Submit a completed application with required documentation and fees

Application Process

1. Complete the application form from the New Mexico Board of Dental Health Care
2. Submit required documents:

• Official transcripts from dental school
• NBDE or INBDE scores
• Clinical examination scores
• Proof of CPR certification
• Letters of recommendation (if required)

1. Pay the application and licensing fees
2. Pass a background check
3. Complete the jurisprudence exam (for licensure by credentials)

Maintaining Licensure

• Renew license annually
• Complete required continuing education credits
• Maintain CPR certification

For the most up-to-date information, contact the New Mexico Board of Dental Health Care or visit their official website.