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Mississippi Dental Assistant License

Mississippi State Board of Dental Examiners

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. Review Licensing Requirements
    Visit the Mississippi State Board of Dental Examiners (MSBDE) 'Dental Assistant Information' page to understand the specific requirements for Basic Dental Assistants, Expanded Duty Dental Assistants, or Dental Radiographers. Ensure you meet all educational and certification criteria, such as a high school diploma/GED, current CPR, and a Board-approved infection control course completed prior to application.
  2. Gather Supporting Documents
    Collect all necessary documents, including proof of high school diploma/GED, current CPR certification from the American Heart Association (AHA) or American Red Cross (ARC), and the certificate of completion for a Board-approved infection control course. These will need to be uploaded during your online application.
  3. Create an Account on the Portal
    Navigate to the MSBDE Online Licensing Application Portal by clicking 'Apply Online' from the MSBDE website. As a new applicant, you must create an account with a unique username and password before proceeding with your application.
  4. Complete the Online Application
    Log into your new account on the MSBDE Online Licensing Application Portal. Fill out all sections of the application accurately and completely, uploading all required supporting documents as instructed within the portal.
  5. Pay the Application Fee
    Submit the non-refundable initial application fee of $50 through the MSBDE Online Licensing Application Portal using a credit or debit card.
  6. Submit Your Application
    After all sections are completed, documents uploaded, and the fee paid, formally submit your application through the MSBDE Online Licensing Application Portal. You can track your application status by logging back into your account.
Total Fee
Contact board
Processing Time
No state application
Fingerprints
Required
Temp License
Not available

Transfer License

Contact the Mississippi State Board of Dental Examiners for current transfer requirements.

Total Fee
Contact board
Renewal Cycle
Annually (Licenses expire June 30th)
Compact
No
Board
Mississippi State Board of Dental Examiners

Keeping Your License Active

Mississippi Dental Assistant licenses renew Annually (Licenses expire June 30th). Contact the Mississippi State Board of Dental Examiners for continuing education requirements and renewal deadlines.

Fees

ItemAmount

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

Questions

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

Board Info

Mississippi State Board of Dental Examiners
Sources