New Hampshire

Getting Your Dental Assistant License in New Hampshire

Here's what you need to know.

Last updated 2026-03-22 · Sources verified

Path for Out-of-State Dental Assistants

There is no active interstate compact route for dental assistant licensing in New Hampshire. Plan on endorsement through New Hampshire Board of Dental Examiners.

Dental assistants can apply for Registered Dental Assistant through the New Hampshire Board of Dental Examiners by registration.

Items to Watch Out For

These are the issues most likely to affect whether your contract timeline is realistic in New Hampshire.

  • Fingerprinting: Required. Out-of-state applicants can use IdentoGO Out-of-State Live Scan OR FD-258 hard card via mail. Completing prints outside New Hampshire can add 2-4 weeks.
  • License verification: New Hampshire 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.

New Hampshire Endorsement Requirements

This is the endorsement checklist for already-licensed clinicians applying in New Hampshire.

  1. Step 1

    Start the New Hampshire application

    Apply through the New Hampshire Board of Dental Examiners. The application fee is $50.

  2. Step 2

    Send verification of your current license

    New Hampshire requires verification sent directly from your current state board or its official verification system before your file is complete.

  3. Step 3

    Send Proof of Training

    Certificate from CODA-accredited program or documentation of on-the-job training hours.

  4. Step 4

    Send DANB Certification

    Official CDA certification from the Dental Assisting National Board, if applicable.

  5. Step 5

    Send Radiography Certification

    Proof of radiography competency/certification required for taking x-rays.

  6. Step 6

    Complete fingerprinting or background check

    New Hampshire 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.

  7. Step 7

    Wait for board processing

    Plan on about 2 to 4 Weeks for processing. New Hampshire also lists a temporary or provisional route while the full file is pending.

  8. Step 8

    Apply for State Credential

    Submit application to the New Hampshire Board of Dental Examiners with required documentation and fees.

Fees and Renewal

Total fee
$50
Processing time
2 to 4 Weeks
Renewal fee
$50
Renewal cycle
Every 2 years
Application
$50
Background check
Varies by provider
Jurisprudence exam
$0
Total estimated cost
$50

Temporary License

New Hampshire 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
New Hampshire Board of Dental Examiners
Department
State Board of Dentistry
Phone
(603) 271-4561
Email
See board website
Board site
Primary board page

Source: Primary board website

Renewal

Renewal fee is $50. Renewal cycle: Every 2 years.

New Hampshire Dental Assistant Licensing FAQ

Does New Hampshire require a dental assistant license?

Yes, New Hampshire requires Registered Dental Assistant through the state board.

Is DANB certification recognized in New Hampshire?

Yes, DANB CDA certification is recognized and often preferred by employers in New Hampshire.

Can I take dental x-rays in New Hampshire?

Yes, but a radiography permit or certification is required.

How much does it cost to become a dental assistant in New Hampshire?

State application fees are $50. Additional costs may include DANB CDA exam ($450), radiography certification, and background check fees.