Application Fee
See agencyVerified 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 agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Dental Assistant in Illinois
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Degree required.
- 2
Experience: Work experience required.
- 3
Background/Criminal Review: Specific type of conviction prohibited.
- 4
License Type: Stand-alone license.
- 5
May also take and develop X-rays and perform dental health education functions.
Exam and processing details
- Third-party exam required
Continuing education and program notes
- Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- 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 (7)
- 1. Meet Illinois eligibility requirements for Dental Assistant licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Degree required.
- 3. Document required supervised experience: Work experience required.
- 4. Pass required examination steps: Third-party exam required.
- 5. Prepare supporting documentation (background check: Specific type of conviction prohibited; Background/Criminal Review: Specific type of conviction prohibited.).
- 6. Submit the application to Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation and monitor board communications.
- 7. Maintain post-licensure compliance (continuing education: Continuing education required to maintain license).
Salary Insights in Illinois
With a median salary of $47,430, Dental Assistants in Illinois earn 0% above the national median of $47,300. Illinois ranks #23 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
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 | Varies by board |
| Wisconsin | $48,000 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Iowa | $47,820 | Degree required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Missouri | $45,220 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | Varies by board |
| Kentucky | $46,520 | Degree required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Indiana | $47,980 | Degree required | State exam required | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 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. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation
320 West Washington, Springfield, IL, 62786
Phone: 2177828556
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FAQ
How long does it take to become a Dental Assistant in Illinois?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about Varies by board, 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 $33,510 (10th percentile) to $58,620 (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 $47,300, with a state median of $47,430.
How many Dental Assistants work in Illinois?
Illinois employs approximately 15,620 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. Verify directly with the agency.
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/.
How often do you renew a Dental Assistant license in Illinois?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.