Virginia Dental Assistant License
Virginia Board of Dentistry
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
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Meet Eligibility Requirements ▾Ensure you meet the qualifications for Expanded Duties Dental Assistant (EDDA) registration, which typically includes graduation from a CODA-accredited dental assisting program OR completion of a board-approved expanded duties course AND certification by DANB OR 2 years of full-time dental assisting experience, plus current Basic Life Support (BLS) or CPR certification.
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Register an Account on DHP Online Services ▾Navigate to the DHP Online Services portal at https://www.license.dhp.virginia.gov/apply/. Click 'Register a Person' to create a new user account with a unique username and password. This account will be used to manage your application and future renewals.
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Complete and Submit the Online Application ▾Log in to your DHP Online Services account. Select 'Apply for a New License/Certification' and choose the 'Expanded Duties Dental Assistant' application. Complete all required sections of the application form and pay the non-refundable application fee online.
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Arrange for Background Check and Submit Supporting Documents ▾Submit fingerprints for a criminal background check as instructed by DHP after your application submission. Have official transcripts sent directly from your CODA-accredited program to the Virginia Board of Dentistry. Additionally, provide proof of current CPR/BLS certification, and if applicable, proof of DANB certification.
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Complete the Virginia Jurisprudence Examination ▾Take and pass the Virginia Dental Jurisprudence Examination. This exam is often available online through the DHP portal or linked resources and assesses your knowledge of Virginia's dental laws and regulations.
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Receive Your Registration ▾The Virginia Board of Dentistry will review your completed application and all supporting documentation. Once approved, your Expanded Duties Dental Assistant registration will be issued and will be viewable on the DHP License Lookup portal.
Total Fee
Contact board
Processing Time
No state application
Fingerprints
Required
Temp License
Not available
Transfer License
Contact the Virginia Board of Dentistry for current transfer requirements.
Total Fee
Contact board
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Compact
No
Board
Virginia Board of Dentistry
Keeping Your License Active
Virginia Dental Assistant licenses renew Every 2 years. Contact the Virginia Board of Dentistry 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.
Virginia-specific note
▾
Virginia may require verification of specific expanded functions training, and documentation from out-of-state programs is often delayed.
Questions
Does Virginia require a dental assistant license?
▾
No, Virginia does not require state licensure for general dental assistants. However, expanded functions and radiography may require permits or certifications.
Is DANB certification recognized in Virginia?
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Yes, DANB CDA certification is recognized and often preferred by employers in Virginia.
Can I take dental x-rays in Virginia?
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Yes, but a radiography permit or certification is required.
How much does it cost to become a dental assistant in Virginia?
▾
There is no state application fee for general dental assistants in Virginia. However, DANB CDA exam costs $450, and radiography certifications may have additional fees.
Board Info
Sources