Path for Out-of-State Dental Assistants
There is no active interstate compact route for dental assistant licensing in New Mexico. Plan on endorsement through New Mexico Board of Dental Health Care.
Dental assistants can apply for Dental Assistant through the New Mexico Board of Dental Health Care by registration.
Items to Watch Out For
These are the issues most likely to affect whether your contract timeline is realistic in New Mexico.
- 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 Mexico can add 2-4 weeks.
- License verification: New Mexico 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 Mexico Endorsement Requirements
This is the endorsement checklist for already-licensed clinicians applying in New Mexico.
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Step 1
Start the New Mexico application
Apply through the New Mexico Board of Dental Health Care. The application fee is $50.
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Step 2
Send verification of your current license
New Mexico 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
New Mexico 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 2 to 4 Weeks for processing. New Mexico 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 New Mexico Board of Dental Health Care 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 Mexico 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 Mexico Board of Dental Health Care
- Department
- State Board of Dentistry
- Phone
- (505) 476-4680
- See board website
- Board site
- Primary board page
Source: Primary board website
Renewal
Renewal fee is $50. Renewal cycle: Every 2 years.
New Mexico Dental Assistant Licensing FAQ
Does New Mexico require a dental assistant license?
Yes, New Mexico requires Dental Assistant through the state board.
Is DANB certification recognized in New Mexico?
Yes, DANB CDA certification is recognized and often preferred by employers in New Mexico.
Can I take dental x-rays in New Mexico?
Yes, but a radiography permit or certification is required.
How much does it cost to become a dental assistant in New Mexico?
State application fees are $50. Additional costs may include DANB CDA exam ($450), radiography certification, and background check fees.