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Florida Dental Assistant License

Florida Board of Dentistry

Total Fee
$35
Processing Time
3 to 4 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 — $35

How to Apply

  1. Understand Expanded Function Requirements
    Review the Florida Board of Dentistry's statutes and rules to understand the specific expanded functions you wish to perform and the qualifications required, such as formal training or certification.
  2. Access MQA Online Services
    Navigate to the Florida Department of Health's MQA Online Services portal, FLHealthSource.gov, which is the system used for all health-related applications and registrations.
  3. Create or Log In to Your Account
    If you are a first-time applicant, create a new user account on FLHealthSource.gov. Existing users should log in with their credentials.
  4. Complete the Online Application
    Select the 'Dental Assistant - Expanded Functions Registration' application. Fill out all required fields accurately and upload any necessary supporting documentation, such as proof of training, course completion, or DAARC certification.
  5. Pay the Registration Fee
    Submit the non-refundable application fee of $35.00 through the secure online payment system within the FLHealthSource.gov portal.
  6. Monitor Application Status
    Regularly check your application status on FLHealthSource.gov. Be prepared to respond promptly to any requests for additional information or clarification from the Florida Board of Dentistry.
Total Fee
$35
Processing Time
3 to 4 Weeks
Fingerprints
Required
Temp License
Not available

Transfer License

Contact the Florida Board of Dentistry for current transfer requirements.

Steps

  1. Submit Your Application
    Apply through the Florida Board of Dentistry. The application fee is $35.
  2. Provide License Verification
    Florida 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.
  3. Provide Proof of Training
    Certificate from CODA-accredited program or documentation of on-the-job training hours.
  4. Provide DANB Certification
    Official CDA certification from the Dental Assisting National Board, if applicable.
  5. Provide Radiography Certification
    Proof of radiography competency/certification required for taking x-rays.
  6. Complete Fingerprinting and Background Screening
    Florida 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 Florida can add 2-4 weeks to your processing time.
  7. Await Board Processing
    Plan for a processing timeline of about 3 to 4 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
Every 2 years
Compact
No
Board
Florida Board of Dentistry

Keeping Your License Active

Florida Dental Assistant licenses renew Every 2 years. Contact the Florida Board of Dentistry for continuing education requirements and renewal deadlines.

Fees

ItemAmount
Application$35
Endorsement application$35

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.
Florida-specific note
Florida may require verification of specific expanded functions training, and documentation from out-of-state programs is often delayed.

Questions

Does Florida require a dental assistant license?
Yes, Florida requires Dental Radiographer through the state board.
Is DANB certification recognized in Florida?
Yes, DANB CDA certification is recognized and often preferred by employers in Florida.
Can I take dental x-rays in Florida?
Yes, but a radiography permit or certification is required.
How much does it cost to become a dental assistant in Florida?
State application fees are $35. Additional costs may include DANB CDA exam ($450), radiography certification, and background check fees.

Board Info

Florida Board of Dentistry
Sources