Florida foreign-trained dentist residency pathway
In Florida, the sourced state record generally points foreign-trained dentists toward a CODA-accredited DDS/DMD or advanced-standing pathway, not a residency-only route. Advanced-standing / supplemental CODA program required — NOT a residency pathway. Under s. 466.006, Fla. Stat., a graduate of a non-CODA (foreign) dental school must complete at least 2 consecutive academic years of full-time study in a CODA-accredited supplemental general dentistry program that provides didactic and clinical education at the DDS/DMD level. Confirm the current rule directly with Florida Board of Dentistry (Florida Department of Health) before choosing a program or filing an application.
Residency signal
Advanced-standing / supplemental CODA program required — NOT a residency pathway. Under s. 466.006, Fla. Stat., a graduate of a non-CODA (foreign) dental school must complete at least 2 consecutive academic years of full-time study in a CODA-accredited supplemental general dentistry program that provides didactic and clinical education at the DDS/DMD level. The statute expressly excludes advanced education programs in a dental specialty, and experience gained under a teaching/residency permit does NOT count toward this requirement — so a GPR/AEGD or specialty residency is NOT an accepted substitute.
Exam signal
National Board Dental Examination (Parts I and II / iNBDE), the ADEX Dental Licensing Examination (clinical; if taken outside Florida must be on/after Oct 2, 2011), and the Florida Laws and Rules Examination. WREB retired Dec 31, 2022.
Source notes
Florida has no reciprocity/endorsement/licensure-by-credentials. The 2-year CODA 'supplemental general dentistry program' is effectively an advanced-standing route to DDS/DMD-level education; it is distinct from (and cannot be replaced by) a GPR/AEGD residency. Requires the Florida-specific Laws and Rules exam in addition to iNBDE + ADEX.
Official board source
Florida Board of Dentistry (Florida Department of Health)
Visit the Florida board