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Illinois Dental Assistant License

Illinois Division of Professional Regulation

Total Fee
Contact board
Processing Time
No state application
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.
  • Application fee — $0

How to Apply

  1. Create an IDFPR Online Services Account ▾
    Visit the IDFPR Online Services portal, select 'Apply for a License', and follow the prompts for 'New User Registration' to create your account.
  2. Complete the Online Application ▾
    Log in to your IDFPR Online Services account, select 'Apply for a New License', and choose 'Dental Assistant' from the profession list. Complete all sections of the application accurately.
  3. Submit Supporting Documentation ▾
    Provide proof of eligibility, which includes either graduation from a Board-approved dental assisting program or verification of 1000 hours of clinical experience. You must also submit proof of current CPR certification.
  4. Pass Required Examination ▾
    Either provide proof of successful completion of a national examination (e.g., DANB CDA or COA) or pass the Illinois Dental Assistant Jurisprudence Examination, as specified in your chosen pathway.
  5. Pay Application Fee ▾
    Submit the required $30 application fee through the IDFPR Online Services portal.
  6. Monitor Application Status ▾
    Regularly check the status of your application through your IDFPR Online Services account and respond promptly to any requests for additional information.
Total Fee
Contact board
Processing Time
No state application
Fingerprints
Required
Temp License
Not available

Transfer License

Contact the Illinois Division of Professional Regulation for current transfer requirements.

Total Fee
Contact board
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Compact
No
Board
Illinois Division of Professional Regulation

Keeping Your License Active

Illinois Dental Assistant licenses renew Every 2 years. Contact the Illinois Division of Professional Regulation for continuing education requirements and renewal deadlines.

Fees

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Slow Downs

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

Questions

Does Illinois require a dental assistant license? ▾
No, Illinois does not require state licensure for general dental assistants. However, expanded functions and radiography may require permits or certifications.
Is DANB certification recognized in Illinois? ▾
Yes, DANB CDA certification is recognized and often preferred by employers in Illinois.
Can I take dental x-rays in Illinois? ▾
Yes, but a radiography permit or certification is required.
How much does it cost to become a dental assistant in Illinois? ▾
There is no state application fee for general dental assistants in Illinois. However, DANB CDA exam costs $450, and radiography certifications may have additional fees.

Board Info

Illinois Division of Professional Regulation
Phone(800) 560-6420
Sources