Massachusetts Dental Assistant License
Massachusetts Board of Registration in Dentistry
Total Fee
$60
Processing Time
6 to 8 Weeks
Fingerprints
Required
Temp License
Not available
What You'll Need
- Passport-style Photo — A 2x2 color photograph of yourself taken within the last six months.
- CPR/BLS Certification — Current certification in American Red Cross CPR/AED for the Professional Rescuer or AHA BLS for Healthcare Providers.
- Infection Control Certificate — Proof of completion of a course on CDC Guidelines for Infection Control in Dental Healthcare Settings.
- Jurisprudence Exam Answer Sheet — The completed answer sheet for the Massachusetts Dental Assistant Ethics and Jurisprudence Exam.
- CORI Acknowledgement Form — A notarized form authorizing the Board to conduct a criminal background check.
How to Apply
-
Determine Licensure Level ▾Identify if you are applying as On-the-Job Trained (OJT), Formally Trained, Certified, or Expanded Function (EFDA).
-
Complete Required Courses ▾Complete a Board-approved course in CDC Guidelines for Infection Control and maintain current CPR/BLS certification.
Infection Control Course -
Request and Pass Jurisprudence Exam ▾Email dentistry.admin@state.ma.us to request the Dental Assistant Ethics and Jurisprudence Exam. Complete the open-book exam and save the answer sheet.
-
Complete CORI Form ▾Download and complete the Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) Acknowledgement Form. It must be notarized or witnessed by a Board employee.
-
Create Online Account ▾Register for an account on the Health Professions Licensing Portal to begin the digital application process.
-
Submit Application and Fee ▾Upload all required documents and pay the $60 non-refundable application fee through the portal.
Total Fee
$60
Processing Time
6 to 8 Weeks
Fingerprints
Required
Temp License
Not available
Transfer License
Contact the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Dentistry for current transfer requirements.
Steps
-
Verify Out-of-State License ▾Request an official letter of standing from every jurisdiction where you have ever held a dental-related license.
-
Submit Verification to BORID ▾Ensure the official verification includes the license status, number, seal, and any disciplinary history. Screenshots are not accepted.
-
Follow Initial Application Steps ▾Complete the standard application on the portal, including the Jurisprudence exam and CORI check.
Total Fee
Contact board
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Compact
No
Board
Massachusetts Board of Registration in Dentistry
Keeping Your License Active
Massachusetts Dental Assistant licenses renew Every 2 years. Contact the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Dentistry for continuing education requirements and renewal deadlines.
Fees
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Application | $60 |
| Endorsement application | $60 |
Slow Downs
Incomplete CORI Form
▾
Failing to have the CORI form notarized or witnessed will result in immediate rejection of the application.
Missing Out-of-State Verifications
▾
If you were licensed elsewhere, the Board requires official paper or electronic verifications directly from those boards, not just copies of your license.
Expired CPR/BLS
▾
Submitting a CPR card that is near expiration or does not include a hands-on component can delay approval.
Questions
Can I work while my application is pending?
▾
Only if you are an On-the-Job Trained (OJT) candidate who has submitted a 'Notice of Intent' (NOI) form to the Board. This allows a one-time 6-month waiver to practice while completing registration.
How many CE credits do I need for renewal?
▾
Dental assistants must complete 12 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) every two-year cycle, ending October 31 of odd-numbered years.
How do I get the Jurisprudence Exam?
▾
You must email the Board at dentistry.admin@state.ma.us to request the exam; it is not available for direct download on the public website.
Is a background check required?
▾
Yes, the Board conducts a Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) check for all applicants.
Board Info
Sources