Path for Out-of-State Dental Assistants
There is no active interstate compact route for dental assistant licensing in Michigan. Plan on endorsement through Michigan Board of Dentistry.
Dental assistants can apply for Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) through the Michigan Board of Dentistry by registration.
Items to Watch Out For
These are the issues most likely to affect whether your contract timeline is realistic in Michigan.
- Fingerprinting: Required. Out-of-state applicants can use IdentoGO Out-of-State Live Scan OR FD-258 hard card via mail. Completing prints outside Michigan can add 2-4 weeks.
- License verification: Michigan 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.
Michigan Endorsement Requirements
This is the endorsement checklist for already-licensed clinicians applying in Michigan.
-
Step 1
Start the Michigan application
Apply through the Michigan Board of Dentistry. The application fee is $50.
-
Step 2
Send verification of your current license
Michigan requires verification sent directly from your current state board or its official verification system before your file is complete.
-
Step 3
Send Proof of Training
Certificate from CODA-accredited program or documentation of on-the-job training hours.
-
Step 4
Send DANB Certification
Official CDA certification from the Dental Assisting National Board, if applicable.
-
Step 5
Send Radiography Certification
Proof of radiography competency/certification required for taking x-rays.
-
Step 6
Complete fingerprinting or background check
Michigan requires fingerprinting or background screening on this path. Out-of-state applicants can use IdentoGO Out-of-State Live Scan OR FD-258 hard card via mail.
-
Step 7
Wait for board processing
Plan on about 4 to 6 Weeks for processing. Michigan also lists a temporary or provisional route while the full file is pending.
-
Step 8
Apply for State Credential
Submit application to the Michigan Board of Dentistry with required documentation and fees.
Fees and Renewal
- Total fee
- $50
- Processing time
- 4 to 6 Weeks
- Renewal fee
- $50
- Renewal cycle
- Every 2 years
- Application
- $50
- Background check
- Varies by provider
- Jurisprudence exam
- $0
- Total estimated cost
- $50
Temporary License
Michigan 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
- Michigan Board of Dentistry
- Department
- State Board of Dentistry
- Phone
- (517) 241-0199
- See board website
- Board site
- Primary board page
Source: Primary board website
Renewal
Renewal fee is $50. Renewal cycle: Every 2 years.
Michigan Dental Assistant Licensing FAQ
Does Michigan require a dental assistant license?
Yes, Michigan requires Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) through the state board.
Is DANB certification recognized in Michigan?
Yes, DANB CDA certification is recognized and often preferred by employers in Michigan.
Can I take dental x-rays in Michigan?
Yes, but a radiography permit or certification is required.
How much does it cost to become a dental assistant in Michigan?
State application fees are $50. Additional costs may include DANB CDA exam ($450), radiography certification, and background check fees.