Application Fee
$120Verified by CA Board of Healthcare
Dental Assistant Licensing in California
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for dental assistant in California, including $120 and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Dental Assistant in California
Estimated timeline: 15 monthsCore Requirements
- 1
License Type: Register with licensing agency.
- 2
Fees: Application: $120.
- 3
Practical Examination: $100.
- 4
Written Examination: $43.
- 5
Law and Ethics Written Examination: $38.50.
- 6
Examination Frequency: Four times a year.
- 7
Exam Locations: Statewide (Contact Dental Board for locations).
Exam and processing details
- $100 Written $43 Law and Ethics Written $38.50 Frequency: Four times a year. Locations: Statewide (Contact Dental Board for locations). Experience
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Application | $120 |
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Consumer Affairs • Dental Board of California
- Current Filing Fee
$120
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$48,910 median (3% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#12 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (6)
- 1. Meet California eligibility requirements for Dental Assistant licensure.
- 2. Complete approved education or training requirements.
- 3. Pass required examination steps: $100 Written $43 Law and Ethics Written $38.50 Frequency: Four times a year. Locations: Statewide (Contact Dental Board for locations). Experience.
- 4. Prepare supporting documentation (Fees: Application: $120.).
- 5. Budget filing costs (Application: $120).
- 6. Submit the application to Department of Consumer Affairs~Dental Board of California and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in California
With a median salary of $48,910, Dental Assistants in California earn 3% above the national median of $47,300. California ranks #12 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 15 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1.4%Average Weekly Wage
$1,758Median annual salary
$48,910Hourly estimate
$23.513% above national median
Difference: +$1,610
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationDental Assistant Salary Ranking
#12 of 50 statesfor Dental Assistant median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Minnesota | $64,630 |
| #2 | Massachusetts | $57,960 |
| #3 | Oregon | $57,720 |
| #4 | Washington | $57,040 |
| #5 | Alaska | $55,950 |
Nearby States Comparison
Dental Assistant licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | $48,910 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 15 months |
| Oregon | $57,720 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Nevada | $46,970 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 18 years |
| Arizona | $49,000 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
License by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Oregon | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Nevada | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Arizona | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
Department of Consumer Affairs • Dental Board of California
2005 Evergreen Street, Suite 1550, Sacramento, CA, 95815
Phone: 9162632300
Related Careers in California
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acupuncturist | $77,640 | Varies by state board | 1-2 years |
| Anesthesiologist | N/A | Varies by state board | 1-12 months |
| Athletic Trainer | $74,150 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Audiologist | $123,600 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Dental Assistant in California?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 15 months, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What is the typical Dental Assistant salary in California?
The median annual salary for Dental Assistants in California is $48,910. Salaries range from $38,770 (10th percentile) to $72,060 (90th percentile).
How does the Dental Assistant salary in California compare to the national average?
Dental Assistants in California earn 3% above the national median of $47,300, with a state median of $48,910.
How many Dental Assistants work in California?
California employs approximately 54,580 Dental Assistants according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Dental Assistant license to California from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Dental Assistants in California?
The licensing agency is Department of Consumer Affairs / Dental Board of California. Review agency details at https://www.dbc.ca.gov/.
How often do you renew a Dental Assistant license in California?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.