Path for Out-of-State Dental Assistants
There is no active interstate compact route for dental assistant licensing in Alabama. Plan on endorsement through Board of Dental Examiners of Alabama.
Dental assistants can apply for Expanded Duty Dental Assistant through the Board of Dental Examiners of Alabama by registration.
Items to Watch Out For
These are the issues most likely to affect whether your contract timeline is realistic in Alabama.
- Fingerprinting: The board does not publish a separate fingerprint requirement for this path.
- License verification: Alabama requires verification of your current out-of-state license before your file is complete.
- Compact status: No active compact route here. Plan on endorsement.
- Temporary license: The board lists a temporary or provisional route while the full file is pending.
Alabama Endorsement Requirements
This is the endorsement checklist for already-licensed clinicians applying in Alabama.
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Step 1
Start the Alabama application
Apply through the Board of Dental Examiners of Alabama. The application fee is $75.
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Step 2
Send verification of your current license
Alabama requires verification sent directly from your current state board or its official verification system before your file is complete.
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Step 3
Send Proof of Training
Certificate from CODA-accredited program or documentation of on-the-job training hours.
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Step 4
Send DANB Certification
Official CDA certification from the Dental Assisting National Board, if applicable.
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Step 5
Send Radiography Certification
Proof of radiography competency/certification required for taking x-rays.
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Step 6
Wait for board processing
Plan on about 2 to 4 Weeks for processing. Alabama also lists a temporary or provisional route while the full file is pending.
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Step 7
Apply for State Credential
Submit application to the Board of Dental Examiners of Alabama with required documentation and fees.
Fees and Renewal
- Total fee
- $75
- Processing time
- 2 to 4 Weeks
- Renewal fee
- $75
- Renewal cycle
- Every 2 years
- Application
- $75
- Background check
- Varies by provider
- Jurisprudence exam
- $0
- Total estimated cost
- $75
Temporary License
Alabama offers a temporary or provisional license so you can start working while your full endorsement application is processing.
- Fee
- See board
- Duration
- See board
- Processing time
- See board
Required Documents
- Proof of Training: Certificate from CODA-accredited program or documentation of on-the-job training hours.
- DANB Certification: Official CDA certification from the Dental Assisting National Board, if applicable.
- Radiography Certification: Proof of radiography competency/certification required for taking x-rays.
Board Contact
- Board
- Board of Dental Examiners of Alabama
- Department
- State Board of Dentistry
- Phone
- (205) 985-7267
- See board website
- Board site
- Primary board page
Source: Primary board website
Renewal
Renewal fee is $75. Renewal cycle: Every 2 years.
Alabama Dental Assistant Licensing FAQ
Does Alabama require a dental assistant license?
Yes, Alabama requires Expanded Duty Dental Assistant through the state board.
Is DANB certification recognized in Alabama?
Yes, DANB CDA certification is recognized and often preferred by employers in Alabama.
Can I take dental x-rays in Alabama?
Yes, but a radiography permit or certification is required.
How much does it cost to become a dental assistant in Alabama?
State application fees are $75. Additional costs may include DANB CDA exam ($450), radiography certification, and background check fees.