# Can original radiographs be sent directly to another dentist in California?

> Yes. With a valid written request, original radiographs can be sent directly to another provider named by the patient.

Last verified: 2026-06-09
Reviewed by: Mahtab Mansour, DDS on 2026-04-25 (re-verification in progress)

## Direct answer
- The office does not have to hand the original films or images to the patient if the valid request directs them to another provider.
- The transfer still has to be authorized and documented in the ordinary records-access lane.
- The broader access right remains in place even when the transfer is provider-to-provider.

## Common trap
- Do not assume the office must either hand originals to the patient or refuse to release them at all. Direct transfer is a recognized option.

## Full guide
- [What does California dental records law require for patient access?](https://dentovio.com/guide/california-dentistry-law-ethics-exam/patient-access-and-board-requests/index.html.md): Use this guide when you want the deadline grid for patient requests, radiographs, summaries, and Board-authorized demands.

## Focused answer page
- [Focused answer](https://dentovio.com/answers/glossary-can-original-radiographs-go-to-another-dentist/index.html.md): Short, source-bounded answer page for search and AI citation.
- [California law and ethics glossary answer topic](https://dentovio.com/answers/topic/california-law-ethics-glossary/index.html.md)

## Primary sources
- `A9` HSC section 123110 patient inspection, copies, form/format, fees, and unpaid-balance rule. <https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=HSC&sectionNum=123110.>
- `A8` Board consumer FAQs including records-access guidance. <https://www.dbc.ca.gov/consumers/consumer_faqs.shtml>

## Next step
- [Take the free diagnostic](https://dentovio.com/free-practice-test)
- [See the paid California prep overview](https://dentovio.com/products/california-dental-law-ethics/index.html.md)

## Related glossary pages
- [Can the Dental Board of California demand records without ordinary patient-request timing?](https://dentovio.com/guide/california-dentistry-law-ethics-exam/glossary/can-dental-board-demand-records/index.html.md)
- [Can a California dentist withhold records because the patient has an unpaid bill?](https://dentovio.com/guide/california-dentistry-law-ethics-exam/glossary/can-dentist-withhold-records-for-unpaid-bill/index.html.md)