Application Fee
See board websiteVerified by KY Board of Healthcare
Dental Assistant Licensing in Kentucky
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for dental assistant in Kentucky, 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 Kentucky
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
- Background Check: Specific type of conviction prohibited
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Commonwealth of Kentucky • Board of Dentistry
- Current Filing Fee
See board website
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$46,520 median (2% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#31 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet Kentucky 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 Commonwealth of Kentucky~Board of Dentistry.
Salary Insights in Kentucky
With a median salary of 46,520, Dental Assistants in Kentucky earn 2% below the national median of 47300. Kentucky ranks #31 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$46,520Hourly estimate
$22.372% below national median
Difference: -$780
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationDental Assistant Salary Ranking
#31 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kentucky | $46,520 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Indiana | $47,980 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Ohio | $47,330 | Specific course required | Choice of state or third-party exam | 6-24 months |
| West Virginia | $37,330 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Virginia | $46,910 | Degree required | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $46,090 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $45,220 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Illinois | $47,430 | Degree required | Third-party 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 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. |
| Ohio | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| West Virginia | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Virginia | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Tennessee | 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
Commonwealth of Kentucky • Board of Dentistry
312 Whittington Parkway, Suite 101, Louisville, KY, 40222
Phone: 5024297280
Related Careers in Kentucky
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $90,950 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $76,180 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $59,900 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Dental Hygienist | $77,440 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Dental Assistant in Kentucky?
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 Kentucky?
Kentucky lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Dental Assistants.
What education do you need to become a Dental Assistant in Kentucky?
The board typically expects Degree required for Dental Assistant licensure in Kentucky.
What is the typical Dental Assistant salary in Kentucky?
The median annual salary for Dental Assistants in Kentucky is 46,520. Salaries range from 29500 (10th percentile) to 59300 (90th percentile).
How does the Dental Assistant salary in Kentucky compare to the national average?
Dental Assistants in Kentucky earn 2% below the national median of 47300, with a state median of 46,520.
How many Dental Assistants work in Kentucky?
Kentucky employs approximately 4250 Dental Assistants according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Dental Assistant license to Kentucky 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 Kentucky?
The licensing agency is Commonwealth of Kentucky / Board of Dentistry. Review agency details at http://dentistry.ky.gov/.