Guide to Obtaining a Dental License in Nebraska
The Nebraska Board of Dentistry, operating under the Department of Health and Human Services, is the governing body responsible for licensing dentists in the state. Whether you’re a new graduate, an experienced clinician relocating from another state, or a retired dentist looking to give back, Nebraska offers several licensing pathways to fit your situation. Here’s what you need to know about each one.
1. Standard Pathway (New Graduates)
This is the primary route for dentists entering the profession after completing their formal education.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify, you must have graduated from a dental program accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) and passed either the National Board Dental Examination (NBDE) Parts I and II or the Integrated National Board Dental Examination (INBDE). You’ll also need to pass a clinical examination accepted by the Nebraska Board of Dentistry and hold a current CPR certification.
Application Steps
Submit your application to the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services along with official dental school transcripts, your NBDE or INBDE scores, and your clinical examination results. You’ll also need to complete and pass the Nebraska jurisprudence examination — a test on the state’s dental laws and regulations — and submit a copy of your CPR certification, a recent photograph, and the required application fee. All applicants are subject to a criminal background check.
2. Licensure Based on Years of Practice (Experienced Dentists from Other States)
Seasoned clinicians relocating to Nebraska may be eligible to obtain licensure based on their practice history, bypassing the need to sit for a clinical examination.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must hold a current, valid dental license in another U.S. state, have graduated from a CODA-accredited dental program, and have passed the NBDE or INBDE. Critically, you must have been actively practicing dentistry for at least three consecutive years immediately prior to applying and have completed a minimum of 50 hours of continuing education within the past two years.
Application Steps
In addition to the standard application materials, you’ll need to submit verification of licensure from every state in which you’ve held a dental license, proof of active practice (such as employer letters or tax documents), certificates of completion for your continuing education hours, and three professional references.
3. Faculty License
This license is designed specifically for dentists who are employed as faculty members at a CODA-accredited dental education program in Nebraska.
Eligibility Requirements
You must hold a dental degree from a recognized institution and be actively employed as a faculty member at an accredited Nebraska dental program. Those in specialty faculty positions must also have completed a CODA-accredited specialty education program.
Application Steps
Submit a faculty license application along with proof of your employment at a Nebraska dental education institution and your dental degree credentials. Specialty program completion documentation is required if applicable. A criminal background check is also part of the process.
4. Temporary License
A temporary license allows dentists licensed in other states to practice in Nebraska for a defined, board-approved purpose — such as serving underserved communities or providing care during public health emergencies.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must hold a current, valid dental license in another U.S. state and have a specific reason for temporary practice that has been approved by the Board.
Application Steps
Submit a temporary license application, provide verification of your current out-of-state licensure, include a detailed written explanation of the purpose for your temporary practice in Nebraska, and pay the required fee.
5. Volunteer License
The volunteer license enables retired dentists to contribute their skills and expertise through pro bono dental services in Nebraska.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify, you must have previously held a valid, unrestricted dental license in any U.S. state, be retired from active practice, and commit to providing services without any form of compensation.
Application Steps
Submit a volunteer license application along with verification that your previous license was held in good standing. You’ll also need to provide a detailed description of the volunteer services you intend to offer, and you’ll be subject to a criminal background check.
Important Notes for All Applicants
Before applying under any pathway, keep the following general requirements and policies in mind:
All applicants must be at least 19 years of age and demonstrate good moral character. Nebraska dental licenses must be renewed biennially by March 1 of even-numbered years, and licensees are required to complete 30 hours of continuing education per two-year renewal cycle. All licensed dentists must carry professional liability insurance.
Dentists who wish to administer general anesthesia, deep sedation, moderate sedation, or minimal sedation must obtain a separate permit for each level of sedation in addition to their dental license.
Nebraska is a member of the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact, which may streamline the licensure process for dentists who are already licensed in other member states.
The Board reserves the right to request additional information or schedule an interview with any applicant at its discretion.
For the most current requirements, fee schedules, and application forms, visit the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services website or contact the Nebraska Board of Dentistry directly.