Michigan Dental Assistant License
Michigan Board of Dentistry
Total Fee
$50
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 — $50
How to Apply
-
Create an ACA Account ▾Visit Michigan's Accela Citizen Access (ACA) online portal, register for an account, and log in to begin the application process.
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Complete the Online Application ▾Start a 'Health Professions Online Application' for 'Registered Dental Assistant' within the ACA portal. Fill out all required sections accurately, including personal, educational, and examination history.
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Submit Required Documentation ▾Upload all necessary documents through the ACA portal, which include official transcripts verifying graduation from a CODA-accredited dental assisting program and proof of passing the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) examination.
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Pass the Michigan RDA Examination ▾After submitting your application, you will receive information on how to schedule and pass the Michigan Board of Dentistry RDA examination, which is a required step for registration.
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Pay Application and Examination Fees ▾Submit the non-refundable application fee of $50.00 and the Michigan RDA Examination fee of $25.00 through the ACA portal as part of your application.
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Await Board Review and Registration ▾Once all requirements are met, documentation is verified, and exam results are processed, the Michigan Board of Dentistry will review your application for final approval and issue your Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) registration.
Total Fee
$50
Processing Time
4 to 6 Weeks
Fingerprints
Required
Temp License
Not available
Transfer License
Contact the Michigan Board of Dentistry for current transfer requirements.
Steps
-
Submit Your Application ▾Apply through the Michigan Board of Dentistry. The application fee is $50.
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Provide License Verification ▾Michigan 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.
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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.
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Complete Fingerprinting and Background Screening ▾Michigan 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 Michigan 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
Every 3 years
Compact
No
Board
Michigan Board of Dentistry
Keeping Your License Active
Michigan Dental Assistant licenses renew Every 3 years. Contact the Michigan Board of Dentistry for continuing education requirements and renewal deadlines.
Fees
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Application | $50 |
| Endorsement application | $50 |
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.
Michigan-specific note
▾
Michigan may require verification of specific expanded functions training, and documentation from out-of-state programs is often delayed.
Questions
Does Michigan require a dental assistant license?
▾
Yes, Michigan requires Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) through the state board.
Is DANB certification recognized in Michigan?
▾
Yes, DANB CDA certification is recognized and often preferred by employers in Michigan.
Can I take dental x-rays in Michigan?
▾
Yes, but a radiography permit or certification is required.
How much does it cost to become a dental assistant in Michigan?
▾
State application fees are $50. Additional costs may include DANB CDA exam ($450), radiography certification, and background check fees.
Board Info
Sources