Path for Out-of-State Dental Assistants
There is no active interstate compact route for dental assistant licensing in Washington. Plan on endorsement through Washington Department of Health.
Dental assistants can apply for Registered Dental Assistant (EFDA) through the Washington Department of Health by registration.
Items to Watch Out For
These are the issues most likely to affect whether your contract timeline is realistic in Washington.
- Fingerprinting: Required. Out-of-state applicants can use IdentoGO Out-of-State Live Scan OR FD-258 hard card via mail. Completing prints outside Washington can add 2-4 weeks.
- License verification: Washington 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.
Washington Endorsement Requirements
This is the endorsement checklist for already-licensed clinicians applying in Washington.
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Step 1
Start the Washington application
Apply through the Washington Department of Health. The application fee is $100.
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Step 2
Send verification of your current license
Washington 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
Washington 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 4 to 6 Weeks for processing. Washington 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 Washington Department of Health with required documentation and fees.
Fees and Renewal
- Total fee
- $100
- Processing time
- 4 to 6 Weeks
- Renewal fee
- $65
- Renewal cycle
- Every 2 years
- Application
- $100
- Background check
- Varies by provider
- Jurisprudence exam
- $0
- Total estimated cost
- $100
Temporary License
Washington 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
- Washington Department of Health
- Department
- State Board of Dentistry
- Phone
- (360) 236-4700
- See board website
- Board site
- Primary board page
Source: Primary board website
Renewal
Renewal fee is $65. Renewal cycle: Every 2 years.
Washington Dental Assistant Licensing FAQ
Does Washington require a dental assistant license?
Yes, Washington requires Registered Dental Assistant (EFDA) through the state board.
Is DANB certification recognized in Washington?
Yes, DANB CDA certification is recognized and often preferred by employers in Washington.
Can I take dental x-rays in Washington?
Yes, but a radiography permit or certification is required.
How much does it cost to become a dental assistant in Washington?
State application fees are $100. Additional costs may include DANB CDA exam ($450), radiography certification, and background check fees.