License pathway · Free

Which exams do you need?

Pick what you're training for and where you trained. You'll see the usual order of exams for a US license, and where Accelerated Boards can help.
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I trained

The usual order for a dentist trained in a CODA program

  1. 1

    INBDE

    The written exam every US state uses for dental licensure. Most students take it in their final year of dental school.

    INBDE Board Prep
  2. 2

    A clinical licensing exam: ADEX or CRDTS

    48 states and other jurisdictions accept or require ADEX, which now includes the DLOSCE on a computer and 5 manikin exams. Some states accept CRDTS or another route, such as a residency year.

    ADEX DLOSCE Prep
  3. 3

    Your state's law exam, if it has one

    Many states ask new licensees to pass a short exam on the state's dental practice act, often online. Your state board publishes the rules it covers.

  4. 4

    Apply to your state board

    With your exam results, the board usually asks for transcripts, a background check and current CPR or BLS. Each board lists its own requirements.

A general order, not legal advice. Every state board sets its own rules and accepts its own list of exams, so check the board where you want to practice before you register for anything.

Read what changed on the ADEX dental exam in 2026

Enrollment opens in 2027

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