Missouri Dental Assistant License
Missouri Dental Board
Total Fee
$10
Processing Time
2 to 4 Weeks
Fingerprints
Required
Temp License
Not available
What You'll Need
- Proof of Competence — A diploma, certificate of mastery, or letter from an approved course provider showing completion of training and testing.
- BLS/CPR Certification — Copy of a current American Heart Association or equivalent BLS card (must include a hands-on component).
- MDAS or CDA Proof — Evidence of passing the Missouri Dental Assisting Skills exam or a copy of your current DANB CDA certification.
- Lawful Presence Document — A copy of a birth certificate, passport, or other document verifying legal status in the U.S.
- Passport Photograph — A 2x3 inch photograph taken within the last six months.
How to Apply
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Verify Eligibility ▾Entry-level dental assistants do not require registration. To perform expanded functions, you must first pass the Missouri Dental Assisting Skills (MDAS) exam or hold a current CDA certification from DANB.
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Complete Approved Training ▾Enroll in and complete a Missouri Dental Board-approved course for the specific expanded function permit you are seeking (e.g., Restorative I, Orthodontics, or Nitrous Oxide Monitoring).
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Obtain BLS Certification ▾Secure a current Basic Life Support (BLS) for Healthcare Providers certification. Note that Missouri does not accept online-only CPR courses; a hands-on component is required.
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Register for Fingerprinting ▾Register with the Missouri Automated Criminal History Site (MACHS) using Registration Number 0003 to complete the required background check through IdentoGO.
Register for Fingerprints -
Submit Application via MOPRO ▾Create an account on the MOPRO portal and submit your application for an Expanded Functions Permit. You must upload your training certificates and proof of BLS.
Access MOPRO Portal -
Pay Permit Fees ▾Pay the non-refundable fee of $10 per expanded function permit through the online portal or by mail if using a paper application.
Total Fee
$10
Processing Time
2 to 4 Weeks
Fingerprints
Required
Temp License
Not available
Transfer License
Contact the Missouri Dental Board for current transfer requirements.
Steps
-
Verification of Out-of-State License ▾Request that the licensing board from your previous state send verification of your dental assistant credentials directly to the Missouri Dental Board.
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Submit Missouri Application ▾Complete the 'Application for Expanded Functions Permits' and indicate you are applying based on out-of-state credentials.
Apply via MOPRO -
Provide Training Equivalency ▾Submit documentation of your out-of-state training to ensure it meets Missouri's standards for the specific expanded function.
Total Fee
Contact board
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Compact
No
Board
Missouri Dental Board
Keeping Your License Active
Missouri Dental Assistant licenses renew Every 2 years. Contact the Missouri Dental Board for continuing education requirements and renewal deadlines.
Renew on the board siteFees
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Application | $10 |
| Endorsement application | $10 |
Slow Downs
Online-Only CPR
▾
Applications are frequently delayed or rejected because the applicant submitted a CPR certificate from an online-only course. Ensure your course had an in-person skills assessment.
Incomplete Background Checks
▾
Failure to use the correct Registration Number (0003) on the MACHS website can prevent the Board from receiving your results.
Missing Notary
▾
If submitting a paper application, failing to have the affidavit signed in the presence of a notary will result in the application being returned.
Questions
Do I need a license to work as a basic dental assistant in Missouri?
▾
No. Missouri does not require registration or licensure for entry-level dental assistants performing basic supportive duties under direct supervision.
How many continuing education (CE) hours do I need?
▾
Dental assistants with expanded functions permits must complete 16 hours of board-approved CE every five years.
Can I perform X-rays without a permit?
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Yes. In Missouri, any dental assistant may legally operate dental X-ray equipment under the supervision of a dentist without a specific state permit.
How long is an expanded function permit valid?
▾
Permits are valid for five years and must be renewed through the MOPRO system.
Board Info
Sources