Application Fee
See board websiteVerified by MA Board of Healthcare
Dental Assistant Licensing in Massachusetts
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for dental assistant in Massachusetts, 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 Massachusetts
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: No criminal record prohibitions
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Board of Registration in Dentistry • Division of Health Professions Licensure
- Current Filing Fee
See board website
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$57,960 median (23% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#2 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet Massachusetts 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 Board of Registration in Dentistry~Division of Health Professions Licensure.
Salary Insights in Massachusetts
With a median salary of 57,960, Dental Assistants in Massachusetts earn 23% above the national median of 47300. Massachusetts ranks #2 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.1%Average Weekly Wage
$1,805Median annual salary
$57,960Hourly estimate
$27.8723% above national median
Difference: +$10,660
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationDental Assistant Salary Ranking
#2 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts | $57,960 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| New Hampshire | $50,260 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Vermont | $51,020 | No educational requirements | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| New York | $47,020 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Connecticut | $50,820 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Rhode Island | $48,060 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| New Hampshire | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Vermont | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| New York | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Connecticut | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Rhode Island | 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
Board of Registration in Dentistry • Division of Health Professions Licensure
239 Causeway Street 5th Floor, Suite 500, Boston, MA, 02114
Phone: 6177279928
Related Careers in Massachusetts
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $98,620 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $77,760 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $69,760 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Hygienist | $100,790 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Dental Assistant in Massachusetts?
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 Massachusetts?
Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts?
The board typically expects Degree required for Dental Assistant licensure in Massachusetts.
What is the typical Dental Assistant salary in Massachusetts?
The median annual salary for Dental Assistants in Massachusetts is 57,960. Salaries range from 47870 (10th percentile) to 71300 (90th percentile).
How does the Dental Assistant salary in Massachusetts compare to the national average?
Dental Assistants in Massachusetts earn 23% above the national median of 47300, with a state median of 57,960.
How many Dental Assistants work in Massachusetts?
Massachusetts employs approximately 9250 Dental Assistants according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Dental Assistant license to Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts?
The licensing agency is Board of Registration in Dentistry / Division of Health Professions Licensure. Review agency details at http://www.mass.gov/eohhs/gov/departments/dph/programs/hcq/dhpl/dentist/about/.