Application Fee
See board websiteVerified by IL Board of Healthcare
Dental Assistant Licensing in Illinois
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for dental assistant in Illinois, including See board website and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Dental Assistant in Illinois
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See board website
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: Specific type of conviction prohibited
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation
- Current Filing Fee
See board website
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$47,430 median (0% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#23 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet Illinois eligibility requirements for Dental Assistant licensure.
- 2. Complete required education: Degree required.
- 3. Pass the required examination: Third-party exam required.
- 4. Submit your application to the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation.
Salary Insights in Illinois
With a median salary of 47,430, Dental Assistants in Illinois earn 0% above the national median of 47300. Illinois ranks #23 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.1%Average Weekly Wage
$1,451Median annual salary
$47,430Hourly estimate
$22.800% above national median
Difference: +$130
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationDental Assistant Salary Ranking
#23 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Illinois | $47,430 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Wisconsin | $48,000 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Iowa | $47,820 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $45,220 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Kentucky | $46,520 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Indiana | $47,980 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Illinois | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Wisconsin | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Iowa | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Missouri | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Kentucky | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Indiana | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board.
Official Licensing Agency
Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation
320 West Washington, Springfield, IL, 62786
Phone: 2177828556
Related Careers in Illinois
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $84,520 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $67,610 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $66,940 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Dental Hygienist | $96,490 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Dental Assistant in Illinois?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 6-24 months, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Dental Assistants in Illinois?
Illinois lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Dental Assistants.
What education do you need to become a Dental Assistant in Illinois?
The board typically expects Degree required for Dental Assistant licensure in Illinois.
What is the typical Dental Assistant salary in Illinois?
The median annual salary for Dental Assistants in Illinois is 47,430. Salaries range from 33510 (10th percentile) to 58620 (90th percentile).
How does the Dental Assistant salary in Illinois compare to the national average?
Dental Assistants in Illinois earn 0% above the national median of 47300, with a state median of 47,430.
How many Dental Assistants work in Illinois?
Illinois employs approximately 15620 Dental Assistants according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Dental Assistant license to Illinois from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board.
Who is the licensing agency for Dental Assistants in Illinois?
The licensing agency is Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. Review agency details at https://www.idfpr.com/.