Application Fee
See board websiteVerified by NC Board of Healthcare
Dental Assistant Licensing in North Carolina
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for dental assistant in North Carolina, 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 North Carolina
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: Affidavit or referral required
- Background Check: Background check required
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
NC Board of Dental Examiners
- Current Filing Fee
See board website
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$48,710 median (3% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#13 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet North Carolina 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 NC Board of Dental Examiners.
Salary Insights in North Carolina
With a median salary of 48,710, Dental Assistants in North Carolina earn 3% above the national median of 47300. North Carolina ranks #13 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1.4%Average Weekly Wage
$1,298Median annual salary
$48,710Hourly estimate
$23.423% above national median
Difference: +$1,410
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationDental Assistant Salary Ranking
#13 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| North Carolina | $48,710 | Degree required | Third-party 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 |
| Georgia | $45,600 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| South Carolina | $45,930 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| North Carolina | 50 | Low | 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. |
| Georgia | 29 | Low | Limited or restricted active licensing status. State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| South Carolina | 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
NC Board of Dental Examiners
2000 Perimeter Park Drive, Suite 160, Morrisville, NC, 27560-8442
Phone: 9196788223
Related Careers in North Carolina
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $79,460 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $80,350 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $59,390 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Dental Hygienist | $89,720 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Dental Assistant in North Carolina?
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 North Carolina?
North Carolina 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 North Carolina?
The board typically expects Degree required for Dental Assistant licensure in North Carolina.
What is the typical Dental Assistant salary in North Carolina?
The median annual salary for Dental Assistants in North Carolina is 48,710. Salaries range from 37330 (10th percentile) to 59300 (90th percentile).
How does the Dental Assistant salary in North Carolina compare to the national average?
Dental Assistants in North Carolina earn 3% above the national median of 47300, with a state median of 48,710.
How many Dental Assistants work in North Carolina?
North Carolina employs approximately 11100 Dental Assistants according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Dental Assistant license to North Carolina 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 North Carolina?
The licensing agency is NC Board of Dental Examiners. Review agency details at http://ncdentalboard.org/#.