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 Qualifying Education — Copy of DANB CDA card, official CODA-accredited program transcript, or Board-approved seminar certificate.
- CPR Certification Card — Copy of a current AHA or Red Cross BLS certification card.
- Passport-Style Photo — One unmounted color bust photo, not larger than 2.5" x 2.5", taken within the last six months.
- Identification Copies — Copies of your current driver's license and Social Security card for citizenship verification.
- Sworn Employment Statements — Required only if applying based on CODA graduation more than 12 months ago; must cover the last five years of employment.
How to Apply
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Verify Eligibility ▾Determine if you meet the requirements for a Radiology Permit through one of three paths: DANB CDA certification, graduation from a CODA-accredited program, or completion of a Board-approved radiology seminar.
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Complete Required Education ▾If not already certified or a CODA graduate, attend and successfully complete a Mississippi Board-approved radiology seminar and exam within 90 days prior to your application.
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Obtain CPR Certification ▾Secure a current certification in Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) at the Basic Life Support (BLS) level from the American Heart Association or the American Red Cross.
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Create Online Portal Account ▾Register for an account on the Mississippi State Board of Dental Examiners online portal to begin the application process.
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Submit Typed Application ▾Complete the application for a Mississippi Radiology Permit. Note that the Board requires all applications to be typed; handwritten forms will be returned.
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Pay Application Fee ▾Pay the non-refundable $60 application processing fee. Online payments are preferred via the portal; if mailing, use a certified check or money order (no personal checks).
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Complete Background Check ▾Consent to a criminal background check as part of the application. The Board will conduct this check on all applicants before issuing a permit.
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.
Steps
-
Verify Out-of-State License ▾Ensure your current dental assistant permit or national certification (DANB) is active and in good standing.
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Submit Reciprocity Application ▾Apply for the Mississippi Radiology Permit using the standard application process, providing proof of your existing credentials.
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Provide Proof of Residency ▾Under the Universal Recognition of Occupational Licenses Act, you may need to provide proof of Mississippi residency (e.g., utility bill or lease).
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
| Item | Amount |
|---|
Slow Downs
Handwritten Applications
▾
The Board strictly requires applications to be typed. Handwritten forms are rejected and returned, causing significant delays.
Personal Checks
▾
The Board does not accept personal checks for fees. Use the online portal or submit a certified check/money order to avoid rejection.
Expired or Incorrect CPR
▾
CPR certification must be current and specifically at the BLS level from AHA or Red Cross. Other providers may not be accepted.
Background Check Processing
▾
Criminal history record checks can take several weeks. Ensure all personal information is accurate to prevent further delays.
Questions
Do I need a license to work as a dental assistant in Mississippi?
▾
No, Mississippi does not license dental assistants for basic supportive duties. However, you MUST have a state-issued Radiology Permit to expose radiographs (X-rays).
Can I take X-rays while my permit application is pending?
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No. You are strictly prohibited from exposing radiographs until you have the physical permit in your possession. Doing so can lead to disciplinary action for both you and your employer.
Does Mississippi require a permit for Nitrous Oxide monitoring?
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No separate permit is issued for assistants. A competent dental auxiliary may monitor nitrous oxide under the direct supervision of a licensed dentist who holds the appropriate sedation permit.
How often must I renew my Radiology Permit?
▾
Radiology permits are renewed biennially (every two years). You must renew online through the Board's portal.
Is DANB certification required in Mississippi?
▾
It is not mandatory for entry-level work, but holding a DANB CDA allows you to apply for a Radiology Permit without taking additional state-approved seminars.
Board Info
Sources