Application Fee
See agencyVerified by TX Board of Healthcare
Dental Assistant Licensing in Texas
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for dental assistant in Texas, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
Both state and third-party exams requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Dental Assistant in Texas
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Specific course required.
- 2
Experience: No experience required.
- 3
Background/Criminal Review: Specific type of conviction prohibited.
- 4
Physical Requirement: No physical requirements.
- 5
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Exam and processing details
- Both state and third-party exams required
Continuing education and program notes
- Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Texas State Board of Dental Examiners
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$42,270 median (11% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#41 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (7)
- 1. Meet Texas eligibility requirements for Dental Assistant licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Specific course required.
- 3. Document required supervised experience: No experience required.
- 4. Pass required examination steps: Both state and third-party exams required.
- 5. Prepare supporting documentation (background check: Specific type of conviction prohibited; Background/Criminal Review: Specific type of conviction prohibited.).
- 6. Submit the application to Texas State Board of Dental Examiners and monitor board communications.
- 7. Maintain post-licensure compliance (continuing education: Continuing education required to maintain license).
Salary Insights in Texas
With a median salary of $42,270, Dental Assistants in Texas earn 11% below the national median of $47,300. Texas ranks #41 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+0.8%Average Weekly Wage
$1,420Median annual salary
$42,270Hourly estimate
$20.3211% below national median
Difference: -$5,030
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationDental Assistant Salary Ranking
#41 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Texas | $42,270 | Specific course required | Both state and third-party exams required | Varies by board |
| Oklahoma | $44,450 | Specific course required | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Arkansas | $37,680 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Louisiana | $38,150 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| New Mexico | $38,840 | Specific course required | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Texas | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Oklahoma | 60 | Medium | Documented experience may be required. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Arkansas | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Louisiana | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| New Mexico | 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
Texas State Board of Dental Examiners
1801 Congress Ave, Ste 8.600, Austin, TX, 78701
Phone: 5124636400
Related Careers in Texas
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acupuncturist | $82,170 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Anesthesiologist | $203,450 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Athletic Trainer | $66,430 | Degree required | Varies by board |
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FAQ
How long does it take to become a Dental Assistant in Texas?
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 Texas?
Texas lists Both state and third-party exams required as part of the licensure process for Dental Assistants.
What education do you need to become a Dental Assistant in Texas?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Dental Assistant licensure in Texas.
What is the typical Dental Assistant salary in Texas?
The median annual salary for Dental Assistants in Texas is $42,270. Salaries range from $29,970 (10th percentile) to $55,400 (90th percentile).
How does the Dental Assistant salary in Texas compare to the national average?
Dental Assistants in Texas earn 11% below the national median of $47,300, with a state median of $42,270.
How many Dental Assistants work in Texas?
Texas employs approximately 31,360 Dental Assistants according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Dental Assistant license to Texas 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 Texas?
The licensing agency is Texas State Board of Dental Examiners. Review agency details at http://tsbde.texas.gov/.
How often do you renew a Dental Assistant license in Texas?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.