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 a DSPS LicensE Account
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Register an account on the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS) LicensE portal at www.doas.state.wi.us/license/. This is required before starting any application for a certificate or license.
Submit Online Application for Dental Radiography Certificate
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Log into your DSPS LicensE account, select 'Apply for a New License/Permit', and choose the 'Dental Radiography Certificate' application under the Dentistry Examining Board. Complete all required sections of the online application.
Provide Proof of Education
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Upload documentation, such as a transcript or certificate of completion, proving you have successfully completed a course of study in dental radiography approved by the Dentistry Examining Board, as specified in Wis. Admin. Code DE 1.02(2)(a).
Pay Application Fee
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Pay the required application fee of $95.00 through the DSPS LicensE system via credit card or electronic check during the application submission process.
Await Review and Issuance
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The Dentistry Examining Board, administered by DSPS, will review your application and supporting documents. Once approved and all requirements are met, your Dental Radiography Certificate will be issued and viewable on the LicensE portal.
Total Fee
Contact board
Processing Time
No state application
Fingerprints
Required
Temp License
Not available
Transfer License
Contact the Wisconsin Dentistry Examining Board for current transfer requirements.
Total Fee
Contact board
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Compact
No
Board
Wisconsin Dentistry Examining Board
Keeping Your License Active
Wisconsin Dental Assistant licenses renew Every 2 years. Contact the Wisconsin Dentistry Examining Board 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.
Wisconsin-specific note
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Wisconsin may require verification of specific expanded functions training, and documentation from out-of-state programs is often delayed.
Questions
Does Wisconsin require a dental assistant license?
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No, Wisconsin does not require state licensure for general dental assistants. However, expanded functions and radiography may require permits or certifications.
Is DANB certification recognized in Wisconsin?
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Yes, DANB CDA certification is recognized and often preferred by employers in Wisconsin.
Can I take dental x-rays in Wisconsin?
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Yes, but a radiography permit or certification is required.
How much does it cost to become a dental assistant in Wisconsin?
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There is no state application fee for general dental assistants in Wisconsin. However, DANB CDA exam costs $450, and radiography certifications may have additional fees.