How foreign-trained dentists get a US dental license

1. 1. Get your dental degree evaluated

   The JCNDE confirms foreign degrees through ECE for the INBDE. Of the CAAPID programs, 25 take ECE only, 20 take ECE or WES, and 1 takes WES only.

2. 2. Meet the English requirement

   Programs set their own minimum scores and accepted tests. CAAPID names TOEFL, and some programs do not take IELTS, so check before you book.

3. 3. Pass the INBDE

   The INBDE is the national written exam for US licensure. Non-CODA graduates pay a processing fee on top of the exam fee, wait at least 60 days between attempts, and must pass within five attempts or five years.

4. 4. Choose an education route

   The route decides the cost and the years involved, so compare your states before you pay for applications.

5. 5. Pass the clinical exam your state accepts

   States accept different clinical exams, and a few accept a residency instead. ADEX and CRDTS both restrict non-CODA graduates, so confirm you can sit the exam before you register.

6. 6. Apply to the state board

   The final application usually adds a jurisprudence exam, background check, and fees that the board sets.

See the official fees for each stage

This page is for educational purposes only and is not legal or immigration advice. Laws change, and each state board decides eligibility. Dentovio is an independent publisher, not the ADA, JCNDE, ADEA, or any state dental board.