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
Create Account and Submit Online Application
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Register for an account on the SC LLR Online Services Portal and complete the Expanded Duty Dental Assistant (EDDA) application form, ensuring all required fields are accurately filled.
Pay Application Fee
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Remit the non-refundable application fee of $75 through the SC LLR Online Services Portal during the application submission process.
Submit Official Transcripts
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Arrange for official transcripts from a CODA-accredited dental assisting program or a Board-approved Expanded Duty Dental Assisting course to be sent directly to the South Carolina Board of Dentistry.
Provide BLS Certification
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Upload a clear copy of your current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification card to your online application or submit it directly to the Board.
Submit Proof of Age
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Provide a copy of a government-issued photo identification (e.g., driver's license) that clearly shows your date of birth, either by uploading it to the portal or submitting it separately.
Pass Board-Approved Examination
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Submit proof of passing a Board-approved Expanded Duty Dental Assisting examination, such as the South Carolina Dental Association (SCDA) examination or other Board-approved equivalent.
Total Fee
Contact board
Processing Time
No state application
Fingerprints
Required
Temp License
Not available
Transfer License
Contact the South Carolina State Board of Dentistry for current transfer requirements.
Total Fee
Contact board
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Compact
No
Board
South Carolina State Board of Dentistry
Keeping Your License Active
South Carolina Dental Assistant licenses renew Every 2 years. Contact the South Carolina State Board of Dentistry for continuing education requirements and renewal deadlines.
Fees
Item
Amount
Slow Downs
Missing or incomplete documents
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Have all your documents ready before starting the application to avoid processing delays.
Application errors
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Double-check that your name matches across all documents exactly. Mismatches are a common reason for delays.
South Carolina-specific note
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South Carolina may require verification of specific expanded functions training, and documentation from out-of-state programs is often delayed.
Questions
Does South Carolina require a dental assistant license?
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No, South Carolina does not require state licensure for general dental assistants. However, expanded functions and radiography may require permits or certifications.
Is DANB certification recognized in South Carolina?
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Yes, DANB CDA certification is recognized and often preferred by employers in South Carolina.
Can I take dental x-rays in South Carolina?
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Yes, but a radiography permit or certification is required.
How much does it cost to become a dental assistant in South Carolina?
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There is no state application fee for general dental assistants in South Carolina. However, DANB CDA exam costs $450, and radiography certifications may have additional fees.