Path for Out-of-State Dental Assistants
There is no active interstate compact route for dental assistant licensing in Missouri. Plan on endorsement through Missouri Dental Board.
General dental assistants are not licensed. Expanded functions permit is $10.
Items to Watch Out For
These are the issues most likely to affect whether your contract timeline is realistic in Missouri.
- Fingerprinting: The board does not publish a separate fingerprint requirement for this path.
- License verification: Missouri 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.
Missouri Endorsement Requirements
This is the endorsement checklist for already-licensed clinicians applying in Missouri.
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Step 1
Start the Missouri application
Apply through the Missouri Dental Board. The application fee is $10.
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Step 2
Send verification of your current license
Missouri 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. Missouri 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 Missouri Dental Board with required documentation and fees.
Fees and Renewal
- Total fee
- $10
- Processing time
- 2 to 4 Weeks
- Renewal fee
- $10
- Renewal cycle
- Every 2 years
- Application
- $10
- Background check
- Varies by provider
- Jurisprudence exam
- $0
- Total estimated cost
- $10
Temporary License
Missouri 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
- Missouri Dental Board
- Department
- State Board of Dentistry
- Phone
- (573) 751-0040
- See board website
- Board site
- Primary board page
Source: Primary board website
Renewal
Renewal fee is $10. Renewal cycle: Every 2 years.
Missouri Dental Assistant Licensing FAQ
Does Missouri require a dental assistant license?
Yes, Missouri requires Expanded Functions Dental Assistant through the state board.
Is DANB certification recognized in Missouri?
Yes, DANB CDA certification is recognized and often preferred by employers in Missouri.
Can I take dental x-rays in Missouri?
Yes, but a radiography permit or certification is required.
How much does it cost to become a dental assistant in Missouri?
State application fees are $10. Additional costs may include DANB CDA exam ($450), radiography certification, and background check fees.