Path for Out-of-State Dental Assistants
There is no active interstate compact route for dental assistant licensing in Minnesota. Plan on endorsement through Minnesota Board of Dentistry.
Dental assistants can apply for Licensed Dental Assistant (LDA) through the Minnesota Board of Dentistry by license.
Items to Watch Out For
These are the issues most likely to affect whether your contract timeline is realistic in Minnesota.
- Fingerprinting: Required. Out-of-state applicants can use IdentoGO Out-of-State Live Scan OR FD-258 hard card via mail. Completing prints outside Minnesota can add 2-4 weeks.
- License verification: Minnesota 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.
Minnesota Endorsement Requirements
This is the endorsement checklist for already-licensed clinicians applying in Minnesota.
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Step 1
Start the Minnesota application
Apply through the Minnesota Board of Dentistry. The application fee is $100.
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Step 2
Send verification of your current license
Minnesota 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
Complete fingerprinting or background check
Minnesota 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.
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Step 7
Wait for board processing
Plan on about 4 to 6 Weeks for processing. Minnesota also lists a temporary or provisional route while the full file is pending.
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Step 8
Apply for State Credential
Submit application to the Minnesota Board of Dentistry with required documentation and fees.
Fees and Renewal
- Total fee
- $100
- Processing time
- 4 to 6 Weeks
- Renewal fee
- $75
- Renewal cycle
- Every 2 years
- Application
- $100
- Background check
- Varies by provider
- Jurisprudence exam
- $0
- Total estimated cost
- $100
Temporary License
Minnesota 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
- Minnesota Board of Dentistry
- Department
- State Board of Dentistry
- Phone
- (612) 548-2129
- See board website
- Board site
- Primary board page
Source: Primary board website
Renewal
Renewal fee is $75. Renewal cycle: Every 2 years.
Minnesota Dental Assistant Licensing FAQ
Does Minnesota require a dental assistant license?
Yes, Minnesota requires Licensed Dental Assistant (LDA) through the state board.
Is DANB certification recognized in Minnesota?
Yes, DANB CDA certification is recognized and often preferred by employers in Minnesota.
Can I take dental x-rays in Minnesota?
Yes, but a radiography permit or certification is required.
How much does it cost to become a dental assistant in Minnesota?
State application fees are $100. Additional costs may include DANB CDA exam ($450), radiography certification, and background check fees.