Application Fee
See agencyVerified by MI Board of Healthcare
Dental Assistant Licensing in Michigan
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for dental assistant in Michigan, 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 Michigan
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Degree required.
- 2
Experience: Work experience required.
- 3
Background/Criminal Review: No criminal record prohibitions.
- 4
License Type: Stand-alone license.
- 5
To receive a RDH Educational Limited License in the State of Michigan, an applicant must graduate from a CODA/ADA-accredited dental hygiene program, must be enrolled in a postgraduate educational program, and take and pass a fingerprint report and criminal background check.
- 6
After meeting these requirements, the applicant must submit a license application along with the appropriate fee ($31.80).
Exam and processing details
- Third-party exam required
Continuing education and program notes
- Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs • Bureau of Professional Licensing
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$47,030 median (1% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#26 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (7)
- 1. Meet Michigan 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: No criminal record prohibitions; Background/Criminal Review: No criminal record prohibitions.; To receive a RDH Educational Limited License in the State of Michigan, an applicant must graduate from a CODA/ADA-accredited dental hygie...).
- 6. Submit the application to Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs~Bureau of Professional Licensing and monitor board communications.
- 7. Maintain post-licensure compliance (continuing education: Continuing education required to maintain license).
Salary Insights in Michigan
With a median salary of $47,030, Dental Assistants in Michigan earn 1% below the national median of $47,300. Michigan ranks #26 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.6%Average Weekly Wage
$1,308Median annual salary
$47,030Hourly estimate
$22.611% below national median
Difference: -$270
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationDental Assistant Salary Ranking
#26 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Michigan | $47,030 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Ohio | $47,330 | Specific course required | Choice of state or third-party exam | Varies by board |
| Indiana | $47,980 | Degree required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Wisconsin | $48,000 | Degree required | Third-party 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Michigan | 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. |
| Indiana | 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. |
- 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
Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs • Bureau of Professional Licensing
P.O. Box 30670, Lansing, MI, 48909
Phone: 5172410199
Related Careers in Michigan
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acupuncturist | $153,350 | Degree required | Varies by board |
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FAQ
How long does it take to become a Dental Assistant in Michigan?
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 Michigan?
Michigan 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 Michigan?
The board typically expects Degree required for Dental Assistant licensure in Michigan.
What is the typical Dental Assistant salary in Michigan?
The median annual salary for Dental Assistants in Michigan is $47,030. Salaries range from $36,290 (10th percentile) to $56,750 (90th percentile).
How does the Dental Assistant salary in Michigan compare to the national average?
Dental Assistants in Michigan earn 1% below the national median of $47,300, with a state median of $47,030.
How many Dental Assistants work in Michigan?
Michigan employs approximately 11,830 Dental Assistants according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Dental Assistant license to Michigan 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 Michigan?
The licensing agency is Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs / Bureau of Professional Licensing. Review agency details at https://www.michigan.gov/lara/0,4601,7-154-89334_72600---,00.html.
How often do you renew a Dental Assistant license in Michigan?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.