Application Fee
See board websiteVerified by PA Board of Healthcare
Dental Assistant Licensing in Pennsylvania
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for dental assistant in Pennsylvania, 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 Pennsylvania
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: Felony convictions prohibited
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of State • Bureau of Professional & Occupational Affairs • Dentistry Board
- Current Filing Fee
See board website
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$48,290 median (2% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#14 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet Pennsylvania 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 Department of State~Bureau of Professional & Occupational Affairs~Dentistry Board.
Salary Insights in Pennsylvania
With a median salary of 48,290, Dental Assistants in Pennsylvania earn 2% above the national median of 47300. Pennsylvania ranks #14 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+1.7%Average Weekly Wage
$1,364Median annual salary
$48,290Hourly estimate
$23.222% above national median
Difference: +$990
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationDental Assistant Salary Ranking
#14 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pennsylvania | $48,290 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| New York | $47,020 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| New Jersey | $48,070 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Delaware | $46,090 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Maryland | $48,280 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| West Virginia | $37,330 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Ohio | $47,330 | Specific course required | Choice of state or third-party 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pennsylvania | 50 | 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. |
| New Jersey | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Delaware | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Maryland | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| West Virginia | 56 | Medium | 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
Department of State • Bureau of Professional & Occupational Affairs • Dentistry Board
P.O. Box 2649, Harrisburg, PA, 17105-2649
Phone: 7177837162
Related Careers in Pennsylvania
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $87,210 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $75,610 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $61,520 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Hygienist | $81,510 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Dental Assistant in Pennsylvania?
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 Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania?
The board typically expects Degree required for Dental Assistant licensure in Pennsylvania.
What is the typical Dental Assistant salary in Pennsylvania?
The median annual salary for Dental Assistants in Pennsylvania is 48,290. Salaries range from 36670 (10th percentile) to 61580 (90th percentile).
How does the Dental Assistant salary in Pennsylvania compare to the national average?
Dental Assistants in Pennsylvania earn 2% above the national median of 47300, with a state median of 48,290.
How many Dental Assistants work in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania employs approximately 12410 Dental Assistants according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Dental Assistant license to Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania?
The licensing agency is Department of State / Bureau of Professional & Occupational Affairs / Dentistry Board. Review agency details at https://www.dos.pa.gov/ProfessionalLicensing/BoardsCommissions/Dentistry/Pages/default.aspx.