Rhode Island Dental License

Can a dentist licensed elsewhere get a Rhode Island license by credentials?

Rhode Island licenses by endorsement a dentist who has held a current license in good standing in another state for the five years before applying, provided that state required a clinical exam outside the applicant's training program. The board checks good standing in every licensing state and queries the National Practitioner Data Bank.

• Licensure by credentials available
• Practice required: 5 years of licensure in another state immediately before applying

Citation: 216-RICR-40-05-2.4.6 and 2.5(A)(1)(c)(3)

Which clinical exams does Rhode Island accept?

Rhode Island accepts the ADEX exam, including the periodontal portion, if passed within five years before applying. An equivalent board-approved exam scored at 75 percent per area, plus the CDCA simulated clinical exercise, is an alternative.

• ADEX accepted

Is Rhode Island in the dental compact?

Rhode Island is not a dental compact member.

• Not a compact member

Does Rhode Island require a sedation permit?

Rhode Island issues an individual anesthesia permit listing each level the dentist may give (minimal and nitrous oxide, moderate, deep sedation, general anesthesia), plus pediatric and portable permits. Each dental facility needs its own facility permit, and the board inspects.

• Separate sedation permit

What hygienists need to know in Rhode Island

Hygienists qualify through the same exam or five-year endorsement route. Local anesthesia and nitrous oxide administration by hygienists each require a board permit.

• Hygienist licensure by credentials
• Local anesthesia permit for hygienists

Do dental assistants need a Rhode Island registration?

General dental assistants are not licensed but must hold current BLS and complete an hour of infection control training each year. DAANCE-certified maxillofacial surgery assistants are licensed.

• No assistant registration

Does Rhode Island offer a temporary or restricted dental license?

A volunteer permit lets out-of-state dentists and hygienists serve at free clinics, Special Olympics and Mission of Mercy events, and retired practitioners can hold a special license.

• Temporary or restricted license available

How often does a Rhode Island dental license renew?

Licenses renew every two years by May 1 of even-numbered years, for a period starting July 1. Dentists complete 40 CE hours per two years, prorated for a partial period.

• Renews every 2 years
• 40 CE hours per cycle