Application Fee
See agencyVerified by RI Board of Healthcare
Dental Assistant Licensing in Rhode Island
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for dental assistant in Rhode Island, 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 Rhode Island
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.
Exam and processing details
- Third-party exam required
Continuing education and program notes
- Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
RI Department of Health • Board of Denistry
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$48,060 median (2% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#17 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (7)
- 1. Meet Rhode Island 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.).
- 6. Submit the application to RI Department of Health~Board of Denistry and monitor board communications.
- 7. Maintain post-licensure compliance (continuing education: Continuing education required to maintain license).
Salary Insights in Rhode Island
With a median salary of $48,060, Dental Assistants in Rhode Island earn 2% above the national median of $47,300. Rhode Island ranks #17 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+3.2%Average Weekly Wage
$1,294Median annual salary
$48,060Hourly estimate
$23.112% above national median
Difference: +$760
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationDental Assistant Salary Ranking
#17 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island | $48,060 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Massachusetts | $57,960 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Connecticut | $50,820 | No educational requirements | State 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Massachusetts | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Connecticut | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
- 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
RI Department of Health • Board of Denistry
3 Capitol Hill, Room 205, Providence, RI, 02908
Phone: 4012222837
Related Careers in Rhode Island
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acupuncturist | $78,140 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Anesthesiologist | N/A | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Athletic Trainer | $58,140 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Audiologist | $80,530 | Degree required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Dental Assistant in Rhode Island?
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 Rhode Island?
Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island?
The board typically expects Degree required for Dental Assistant licensure in Rhode Island.
What is the typical Dental Assistant salary in Rhode Island?
The median annual salary for Dental Assistants in Rhode Island is $48,060. Salaries range from $38,500 (10th percentile) to $75,940 (90th percentile).
How does the Dental Assistant salary in Rhode Island compare to the national average?
Dental Assistants in Rhode Island earn 2% above the national median of $47,300, with a state median of $48,060.
How many Dental Assistants work in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island employs approximately 1,120 Dental Assistants according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Dental Assistant license to Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island?
The licensing agency is RI Department of Health / Board of Denistry. Review agency details at https://health.ri.gov/licenses/detail.php?id=251.
How often do you renew a Dental Assistant license in Rhode Island?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.