Arkansas Dental Assistant License
Arkansas State Board of Dental Examiners
Total Fee
$75
Processing Time
4 to 6 Weeks
Fingerprints
Required
Temp License
Not available
What You'll Need
- Application for Registration — Official typed application form for Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) status.
- Passport Photo — A current passport-sized photograph (taken within the last 6 months) must be attached to the application.
- CPR Certification — Copy of a current Healthcare Provider level Basic Life Support (BLS) CPR card. Online-only courses are not accepted.
- Proof of Education/Competency — Copy of a CODA-accredited program diploma, DANB CDA certificate, or a signature from an Arkansas-licensed dentist verifying on-the-job training (OJT).
- Registration Fee — $75 check or money order made payable to the Arkansas State Board of Dental Examiners.
How to Apply
-
Complete Application Form ▾Download and complete the 'Application for Registration of Dental Assistants'. The form must be typed; handwritten applications are not accepted.
-
Submit Application and Fees ▾Mail the completed application, a $75 registration fee (check or money order), and required supporting documents to the Board office in Little Rock.
-
Complete Background Check ▾Once the Board receives your application, they will mail you instructions for the state and federal criminal background check. You must follow these instructions to complete fingerprinting.
-
Take Jurisprudence Exam ▾The Board will email the open-book Jurisprudence Exam to the email address provided on your application. You must pass with a score of at least 75% and return it within 30 days.
-
Receive Permit ▾After all requirements are met, including the background check and exam, the Board will issue your permit via email. A wall certificate will follow in the mail.
Total Fee
$75
Processing Time
4 to 6 Weeks
Fingerprints
Required
Temp License
Not available
Transfer License
Contact the Arkansas State Board of Dental Examiners for current transfer requirements.
Steps
-
Verify Credentials ▾Out-of-state applicants must hold a current DANB CDA certification or have graduated from a CODA-accredited program to qualify for an Arkansas RDA permit.
-
Submit Initial Application ▾Follow the standard initial application process, including the $75 fee and background check authorization.
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Complete Arkansas Jurisprudence ▾All applicants, regardless of experience in other states, must pass the Arkansas Jurisprudence Exam covering the state's Dental Practice Act.
Total Fee
Contact board
Renewal Cycle
Annually
Compact
No
Board
Arkansas State Board of Dental Examiners
Keeping Your License Active
Arkansas Dental Assistant licenses renew Annually. Contact the Arkansas State Board of Dental Examiners for continuing education requirements and renewal deadlines.
Fees
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Application | $75 |
| Endorsement application | $75 |
Slow Downs
Handwritten Applications
▾
The Board strictly requires applications to be typed. Handwritten forms will be returned, delaying the process.
Invalid CPR Certification
▾
Submitting a CPR certificate from an online-only course or one that is not 'Healthcare Provider' level will result in application rejection.
Jurisprudence Exam Deadline
▾
Failure to return the Jurisprudence Exam within 30 days of it being emailed will void the application and fee.
Background Check Mailing
▾
Background check instructions are sent via physical mail only after the application is received; delays in mail or fingerprinting appointments can slow the final permit issuance.
Questions
Do I need a permit to work as a dental assistant in Arkansas?
▾
No permit is required for basic supportive duties. However, a permit is legally required to perform 'expanded duties' such as radiography, coronal polishing, and nitrous oxide administration.
What are the continuing education (CE) requirements for RDAs?
▾
Registered Dental Assistants must complete 2 hours of Board-approved continuing education in infection control every two-year reporting period.
How do I add expanded duties like Nitrous Oxide to my existing permit?
▾
You must submit the 'Expanded Duties Add-On' form along with proof of completing a Board-approved course in that specific function.
Does Arkansas accept DANB certification for registration?
▾
Yes, holding a current DANB Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) credential is one of the primary pathways to obtaining an Arkansas RDA permit.
Board Info
Sources