Rhode Island Dental Assistant License
Rhode Island Board of Examiners in Dentistry
Total Fee
$25
Processing Time
4 to 6 Weeks
Fingerprints
Required
Temp License
Not available
What You'll Need
- BLS/CPR Certification — Current Basic Life Support for Healthcare Providers certificate with a hands-on component.
- Radiography Course Certificate — Proof of completion of a CODA-accredited dental radiography course.
- DANB Certification Proof — Required only for those performing expanded functions (e.g., CDA, COA).
- DAANCE Certification — Required only for Certified Maxillofacial Surgery Assistant applicants.
- ACLS Certification — Advanced Cardiac Life Support certification, required for Maxillofacial Surgery Assistants.
How to Apply
-
Determine Your Level ▾Rhode Island recognizes three levels: Entry-level (no license), DANB-Certified (for expanded functions), and Certified Maxillofacial Surgery Assistant (state-licensed).
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Complete Mandatory Training ▾All dental assistants must hold a current Basic Life Support (BLS) certificate and complete 1 hour of CDC Infection Control training annually.
Board Regulations -
Obtain Radiography Certification ▾To perform X-rays, you must complete a course in dental radiography from a CODA-accredited program. No separate state permit is required; keep your certificate on file.
-
Earn DANB Certification (Optional) ▾To perform expanded functions, you must earn and maintain a national certification from the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB), such as the CDA.
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Apply for Maxillofacial License (If Applicable) ▾If you are a DAANCE-certified assistant, you must apply for a state license through the RI Department of Health.
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Submit Application and Fees ▾For the Maxillofacial license, mail the completed application, a $40 fee, and proof of DAANCE and ACLS certification to the Board.
Fee Schedule
Total Fee
$25
Processing Time
4 to 6 Weeks
Fingerprints
Required
Temp License
Not available
Transfer License
Contact the Rhode Island Board of Examiners in Dentistry for current transfer requirements.
Steps
-
Verify Out-of-State License ▾If applying for the Maxillofacial license from another state, have that state board send verification directly to the RI Board.
-
Submit National Credentials ▾Rhode Island relies on national certifications (DANB/DAANCE) for reciprocity of expanded duties.
Total Fee
Contact board
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Compact
No
Board
Rhode Island Board of Examiners in Dentistry
Keeping Your License Active
Rhode Island Dental Assistant licenses renew Every 2 years. Contact the Rhode Island Board of Examiners in Dentistry for continuing education requirements and renewal deadlines.
Fees
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Application | $25 |
| Endorsement application | $25 |
Slow Downs
Missing Infection Control Training
▾
Failure to complete the required 1 hour of annual CDC Infection Control training can lead to compliance issues during audits.
Expired BLS Certification
▾
All assistants must maintain an active BLS card; a lapse in certification makes you ineligible to practice.
Incomplete Application Packets
▾
For Maxillofacial applicants, failing to include the $40 fee or the ACLS certificate will delay processing by up to 6 weeks.
Questions
Do I need a state license to work as a dental assistant in Rhode Island?
▾
No, entry-level dental assistants do not need a state license or registration. However, you must have BLS and annual infection control training.
How do I get a permit to take X-rays in RI?
▾
Rhode Island does not issue individual radiography permits. You are legally authorized to take X-rays once you complete a CODA-accredited radiography course.
What are the requirements for expanded functions?
▾
To perform expanded functions, you must hold a current national certification from DANB (such as CDA or COA).
How often must I renew my Maxillofacial Surgery Assistant license?
▾
The state license for Maxillofacial Surgery Assistants is renewed biennially (every 2 years) by May 1st of even-numbered years.
Board Info
Sources
State statutes