Application Fee
See agencyVerified by WA Board of Healthcare
Dental Assistant Licensing in Washington
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for dental assistant in Washington, 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 Washington
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
Department of Health
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$57,040 median (21% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#4 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (7)
- 1. Meet Washington 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 Department of Health and monitor board communications.
- 7. Maintain post-licensure compliance (continuing education: Continuing education required to maintain license).
Salary Insights in Washington
With a median salary of $57,040, Dental Assistants in Washington earn 21% above the national median of $47,300. Washington ranks #4 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.3%Average Weekly Wage
$1,837Median annual salary
$57,040Hourly estimate
$27.4221% above national median
Difference: +$9,740
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationDental Assistant Salary Ranking
#4 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 regionLicense 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Washington | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Idaho | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Oregon | 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. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
Department of Health
101 Israel Rd SE, Tumwater, WA, 98501
Phone: 3602364700
Related Careers in Washington
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acupuncturist | $73,420 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Anesthesiologist | N/A | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Athletic Trainer | $60,350 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Audiologist | $105,120 | Degree required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Dental Assistant in Washington?
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 Washington?
Washington 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 Washington?
The board typically expects Degree required for Dental Assistant licensure in Washington.
What is the typical Dental Assistant salary in Washington?
The median annual salary for Dental Assistants in Washington is $57,040. Salaries range from $45,640 (10th percentile) to $66,270 (90th percentile).
How does the Dental Assistant salary in Washington compare to the national average?
Dental Assistants in Washington earn 21% above the national median of $47,300, with a state median of $57,040.
How many Dental Assistants work in Washington?
Washington employs approximately 13,330 Dental Assistants according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Dental Assistant license to Washington 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 Washington?
The licensing agency is Department of Health. Review agency details at http://www.doh.wa.gov/.
How often do you renew a Dental Assistant license in Washington?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.