Application Fee
See board websiteVerified by IA Board of Healthcare
Dental Assistant Licensing in Iowa
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for dental assistant in Iowa, including See board website and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Dental Assistant in Iowa
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: State exam required
- Application Fee: See board website
- Experience: Work experience required
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Iowa Department of Public Health • Iowa Board of Dental Examiners
- Current Filing Fee
See board website
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$47,820 median (1% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#20 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet Iowa eligibility requirements for Dental Assistant licensure.
- 2. Complete required education: Degree required.
- 3. Pass the required examination: State exam required.
- 4. Submit your application to the Iowa Department of Public Health~Iowa Board of Dental Examiners.
Salary Insights in Iowa
With a median salary of 47,820, Dental Assistants in Iowa earn 1% above the national median of 47300. Iowa ranks #20 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.4%Average Weekly Wage
$1,154Median annual salary
$47,820Hourly estimate
$22.991% above national median
Difference: +$520
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationDental Assistant Salary Ranking
#20 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Iowa | $47,820 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Minnesota | $64,630 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Wisconsin | $48,000 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Illinois | $47,430 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $45,220 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Nebraska | $46,660 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| South Dakota | $47,680 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Iowa | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Minnesota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Wisconsin | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Illinois | 50 | Low | 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. |
| Nebraska | 78 | High | Board-specific review 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
Iowa Department of Public Health • Iowa Board of Dental Examiners
400 SW 8th St, Suite D, Des Moines, IA, 50309
Phone: 5152426369
Related Careers in Iowa
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $93,790 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $66,340 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $54,560 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Hygienist | $82,770 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Dental Assistant in Iowa?
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 Iowa?
Iowa lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Dental Assistants.
What education do you need to become a Dental Assistant in Iowa?
The board typically expects Degree required for Dental Assistant licensure in Iowa.
What is the typical Dental Assistant salary in Iowa?
The median annual salary for Dental Assistants in Iowa is 47,820. Salaries range from 38640 (10th percentile) to 59010 (90th percentile).
How does the Dental Assistant salary in Iowa compare to the national average?
Dental Assistants in Iowa earn 1% above the national median of 47300, with a state median of 47,820.
How many Dental Assistants work in Iowa?
Iowa employs approximately 3540 Dental Assistants according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Dental Assistant license to Iowa 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 Iowa?
The licensing agency is Iowa Department of Public Health / Iowa Board of Dental Examiners. Review agency details at https://dentalboard.iowa.gov/.