Proof of X-Ray Training — Certificate or documentation showing completion of a board-approved radiographic procedures course.
CPR/BLS Card — Current certification card from the American Heart Association or American Red Cross.
Infection Control CE Records — Certificates of completion for 4 hours of infection control training every two years.
How to Apply
Verify Licensing Status
▾
Confirm that Nevada does not require registration or licensing for general Dental Assistants. You practice under the direct supervision of a licensed dentist.
View Dental Assistant Info
Complete Radiographic Training
▾
If your duties include exposing X-rays, you must receive adequate instruction in radiographic procedures as per NAC 631.260.
Read X-Ray Regulations
Obtain CPR Certification
▾
Maintain a current certification in Basic Life Support (BLS) or Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) from an approved provider.
Complete Infection Control CE
▾
Complete a minimum of 4 hours of continuing education in infection control every 2 years while employed.
Employer Certification
▾
Ensure your employing dentist includes your name and training details on their biennial license renewal form submitted to the Board.
Total Fee
$200
Processing Time
4 to 6 Weeks
Fingerprints
Required
Temp License
Not available
Transfer License
Contact the Nevada State Board of Dental Examiners for current transfer requirements.
Steps
Submit Your Application
▾
Apply through the Nevada State Board of Dental Examiners. The application fee is $200.
Provide License Verification
▾
Nevada requires official verification of your active out-of-state license. This must be sent directly to the board from your current state board or its official online verification system before your file can be considered complete.
Provide Proof of Training
▾
Certificate from CODA-accredited program or documentation of on-the-job training hours.
Provide DANB Certification
▾
Official CDA certification from the Dental Assisting National Board, if applicable.
Provide Radiography Certification
▾
Proof of radiography competency/certification required for taking x-rays.
Complete Fingerprinting and Background Screening
▾
Nevada requires a criminal background check for all applicants. Out-of-state applicants can use IdentoGO Out-of-State Live Scan OR FD-258 hard card via mail. Completing prints outside Nevada can add 2-4 weeks to your processing time.
Await Board Processing
▾
Plan for a processing timeline of about 4 to 6 Weeks once your file is complete. If you need to start working immediately, most states do not offer temporary practice authorization during the endorsement process. Contact the state board directly for current policies on practice authorization while your application is pending.
Total Fee
Contact board
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Compact
No
Board
Nevada State Board of Dental Examiners
Keeping Your License Active
Nevada Dental Assistant licenses renew Every 2 years. Contact the Nevada State Board of Dental Examiners for continuing education requirements and renewal deadlines.
Fees
Item
Amount
Application
$200
Endorsement application
$200
Slow Downs
Dentist Renewal Omission
▾
The most common issue is the employing dentist failing to list the assistant on their biennial renewal form, which is the only official record of the assistant's qualification to perform X-rays.
Expired CPR Certification
▾
Failure to maintain an active CPR card can lead to a lapse in the legal ability to assist in certain procedures.
Inadequate CE Documentation
▾
Not keeping physical or digital copies of infection control certificates makes it difficult for the dentist to certify your training to the Board.
Questions
Do I need a license to be a Dental Assistant in Nevada?
▾
No. General Dental Assistants are not licensed or registered by the Nevada State Board of Dental Examiners. They work under the supervision of a licensed dentist.
What are the requirements to take X-rays in Nevada?
▾
You must complete a training course in radiographic procedures. Your employing dentist must then certify to the Board that you have received this training.
Is DANB certification required in Nevada?
▾
No, national certification through the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) is not required by the state, though many employers prefer it.
What is an Expanded Function Dental Assistant (EFDA) in Nevada?
▾
Nevada has authorized a new EFDA license category. However, as of early 2024, the Board has stated this license type is not yet available, with an anticipated launch in late 2026.