Minnesota Dental Assistant License
Minnesota Board of Dentistry
Total Fee
$100
Processing Time
2 to 4 Weeks
Fingerprints
Required
Temp License
Not available
What You'll Need
- Official Transcripts — Must be sent directly from your CODA-accredited school to the Board via email (dental.board@state.mn.us) or mail.
- DANB Certification — Proof of passing the DANB CDA examination components. DANB Website
- Jurisprudence Exam Results — Original or notarized copy of passing the Minnesota Jurisprudence Exam.
- CPR Certification — Copy of a current CPR card at the Healthcare Provider level (AHA or Red Cross only).
- State Licensure Exam Results — Proof of passing the Minnesota Dental Assistant State Licensure Exam.
How to Apply
-
Complete an Accredited Program ▾Graduate from a dental assisting program accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) and approved by the Minnesota Board of Dentistry.
View Requirements -
Pass Required Examinations ▾Pass the DANB Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) exam, the Minnesota Dental Assistant State Licensure Exam, and the Minnesota Jurisprudence Exam within 5 years of application.
Register for Jurisprudence Exam -
Initiate Online Pre-Application ▾Complete the online pre-application to pay the required fees ($124.25) and trigger the criminal background check process.
Start Pre-Application -
Complete Criminal Background Check ▾After paying fees, you will receive a CBC packet via email. Follow the instructions to complete fingerprinting and submit the required consent forms.
CBC Instructions -
Submit Paper Application ▾Download, complete, and mail the paper 'Application for Licensure by Exam' to the Board office along with all supporting documentation.
Download Application Form -
Final Board Review ▾The Board will review your application once the CBC results and all transcripts/exam scores are received. Processing time varies by volume.
Total Fee
$100
Processing Time
2 to 4 Weeks
Fingerprints
Required
Temp License
Not available
Transfer License
Contact the Minnesota Board of Dentistry for current transfer requirements.
Steps
-
Verify Eligibility ▾Must be a graduate of a CODA-accredited program or DANB certified, and hold a current license in good standing in another U.S. jurisdiction.
Check Credentials Requirements -
Request License Verification ▾Request an official affidavit of licensure from every state where you have ever held a dental license.
-
Pass Jurisprudence Exam ▾Take and pass the Minnesota Jurisprudence Exam within 5 years of your application date.
Schedule Exam -
Submit Credentials Application ▾Mail the 'Licensure by Credentials' application packet with the $104.25 fee (check or money order only). Note: Credentials applicants do not use the online pre-application portal.
Download Credentials Packet -
Complete Background Check ▾Complete the fingerprint-based criminal background check once the Board provides instructions.
CBC Details
Total Fee
Contact board
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Compact
No
Board
Minnesota Board of Dentistry
Keeping Your License Active
Minnesota Dental Assistant licenses renew Every 2 years. Contact the Minnesota Board of Dentistry for continuing education requirements and renewal deadlines.
Fees
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Application | $100 |
| Endorsement application | $100 |
Slow Downs
Incomplete Background Checks
▾
Failure to follow specific fingerprinting instructions or missing consent forms can delay the process by several weeks.
Transcript Issues
▾
Transcripts must be sent directly from the institution; student-issued copies are not accepted.
Exam Timing
▾
Waiting until the last minute to take the Jurisprudence or State Licensure exams can delay application processing as scores must be verified.
Mailed Application Errors
▾
Stapling documents or missing signatures on the Attestation page will result in the application being returned.
Questions
Can I apply online?
▾
You must use the online portal for the 'Pre-Application' (paying fees and starting the background check), but the final licensure application must be submitted as a paper form via mail.
What are the CE requirements for renewal?
▾
Licensed Dental Assistants must complete 25 credit hours every two years, including mandatory courses in Infection Control and maintaining CPR certification.
How much does it cost to get licensed?
▾
The total non-refundable fee for licensure by exam is $124.25, which includes the application fee, background check fee, and initial license fee.
Do I need to be DANB certified?
▾
Yes, passing the DANB Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) exam is a requirement for initial licensure in Minnesota.
How do I schedule the Jurisprudence Exam?
▾
The exam is proctored by PSI Services. You can register and schedule your exam online at the PSI website for a fee of $85.
Board Info
Sources
State statutes