This guide covers the main pathways to obtain a dental license in Minnesota. The Minnesota Board of Dentistry oversees the licensing process for dentists in the state.

1. Standard Pathway (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 Minnesota Board of Dentistry
  • Complete a jurisprudence examination on Minnesota dental laws and rules
  • Hold current CPR certification

Steps:

  1. Submit an application to the Minnesota 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 Minnesota jurisprudence examination
  6. Submit a copy of your CPR certification
  7. Pay the required application fee
  8. Complete a criminal background check

2. Licensure by Credentials (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 2,000 hours within the 36 months prior to application

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 50 hours of continuing education completed within the previous five years

3. Faculty License

Requirements:

  • Be employed as a full-time or part-time faculty member at a CODA-accredited dental school in Minnesota
  • 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 Minnesota dental school
  3. Submit dental degree credentials and specialty program completion (if applicable)
  4. Complete a criminal background check

4. Limited License (for foreign-trained dentists)

Requirements:

  • Graduate from a non-CODA accredited dental program
  • Complete at least two years of postdoctoral education at a CODA-accredited institution
  • Pass the NBDE or INBDE
  • Pass a clinical examination accepted by the Minnesota Board of Dentistry

Steps:

  1. Submit an application for a limited license
  2. Provide transcripts and diploma from your foreign dental school
  3. Submit proof of completion of postdoctoral education
  4. Submit NBDE or INBDE scores and clinical examination scores
  5. Complete a criminal background check

5. Resident Dentist Registration

Purpose:

For dentists participating in a hospital-based residency program in Minnesota.

Requirements:

  • Be accepted into a hospital-based residency program in Minnesota
  • Hold a dental degree from a CODA-accredited program or equivalent

Steps:

  1. Submit an application for resident dentist registration
  2. Provide proof of acceptance into a Minnesota residency program
  3. Submit dental degree credentials
  4. Complete a criminal background check

General Notes:

  • All applicants must be at least 18 years old and of good moral character
  • Licenses must be renewed annually
  • Continuing education requirements must be met for license renewal (50 hours per 2-year cycle)
  • The Board may require additional information or an interview from any applicant
  • All licensees must maintain professional liability insurance

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