Arkansas Dental Assistant License
Arkansas State Board of Dental Examiners
Total Fee
$75
Processing Time
4 to 6 Weeks
Fingerprints
Required
Temp License
Not available
What You'll Need
- 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.
- Fingerprint background check — through IdentoGO (IDEMIA)
- Application fee — $75
How to Apply
-
Create an ASBDE Online Portal Account ▾Access the ASBDE Online Portal at asbde.elicense.arkansas.gov and register for a new applicant account by providing personal details and creating login credentials.
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Complete the Initial Registration Application ▾Log in to your ASBDE Online Portal account, navigate to 'Start a New Application' and choose the 'Dental Assistant Initial Registration Application'.
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Submit Required Documentation ▾Upload all necessary documents, which include proof of age (minimum 18 years), current CPR certification, a notarized Affidavit of Good Moral Character, and a signed Statement of Understanding of ASBDE Rules and Regulations.
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Undergo Background Check ▾Follow the instructions within the ASBDE Online Portal to complete the required state and federal background check, as all applicants for licensure must submit to one.
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Pay the Application Fee ▾Submit the non-refundable initial registration application fee through the ASBDE Online Portal using an approved payment method.
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Await Board Review and Approval ▾The Arkansas State Board of Dental Examiners will review your complete application and required submissions. Upon approval, your Dental Assistant registration will be issued.
Total Fee
$75
Processing Time
4 to 6 Weeks
Fingerprints
Required
Temp License
Not available
Transfer License
Contact the Arkansas State Board of Dental Examiners for current transfer requirements.
Steps
-
Submit Your Application ▾Apply through the Arkansas State Board of Dental Examiners. The application fee is $75.
-
Provide License Verification ▾Arkansas requires official verification of your active out-of-state license. This must be sent directly to the board from your current state board or its official online verification system before your file can be considered complete.
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Provide Proof of Training ▾Certificate from CODA-accredited program or documentation of on-the-job training hours.
-
Provide DANB Certification ▾Official CDA certification from the Dental Assisting National Board, if applicable.
-
Provide Radiography Certification ▾Proof of radiography competency/certification required for taking x-rays.
-
Complete Fingerprinting and Background Screening ▾Arkansas requires a criminal background check for all applicants. Out-of-state applicants can use IdentoGO Out-of-State Live Scan OR FD-258 hard card via mail. Completing prints outside Arkansas can add 2-4 weeks to your processing time.
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Await Board Processing ▾Plan for a processing timeline of about 4 to 6 Weeks once your file is complete. If you need to start working immediately, most states do not offer temporary practice authorization during the endorsement process. Contact the state board directly for current policies on practice authorization while your application is pending.
Total Fee
Contact board
Renewal Cycle
Annually
Compact
No
Board
Arkansas State Board of Dental Examiners
Keeping Your License Active
Arkansas Dental Assistant licenses renew Annually. Contact the Arkansas State Board of Dental Examiners for continuing education requirements and renewal deadlines.
Fees
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Application | $75 |
| Endorsement application | $75 |
Slow Downs
Fingerprinting delays
▾
Out-of-state prints can add 2-4 weeks to your timeline.
Missing or incomplete documents
▾
Have all your documents ready before starting the application to avoid processing delays.
Application errors
▾
Double-check that your name matches across all documents exactly. Mismatches are a common reason for delays.
Arkansas-specific note
▾
Arkansas may require verification of specific expanded functions training, and documentation from out-of-state programs is often delayed.
Questions
Does Arkansas require a dental assistant license?
▾
Yes, Arkansas requires Licensed Dental Assistant through the state board.
Is DANB certification recognized in Arkansas?
▾
Yes, DANB CDA certification is recognized and often preferred by employers in Arkansas.
Can I take dental x-rays in Arkansas?
▾
Yes, but a radiography permit or certification is required.
How much does it cost to become a dental assistant in Arkansas?
▾
State application fees are $75. Additional costs may include DANB CDA exam ($450), radiography certification, and background check fees.
Board Info
Sources