Application Fee
See agencyVerified by WV Board of Healthcare
Dental Assistant Licensing in West Virginia
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for dental assistant in West Virginia, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Dental Assistant in West Virginia
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: No educational requirements.
- 2
Experience: Work experience required.
- 3
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Exam and processing details
- State exam required
Continuing education and program notes
- Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
DENTAL EXAMINERS
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$37,330 median (21% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#47 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (6)
- 1. Meet West Virginia eligibility requirements for Dental Assistant licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: No educational requirements.
- 3. Document required supervised experience: Work experience required.
- 4. Pass required examination steps: State exam required.
- 5. Submit the application to DENTAL EXAMINERS and monitor board communications.
- 6. Maintain post-licensure compliance (continuing education: Continuing education required to maintain license).
Salary Insights in West Virginia
With a median salary of $37,330, Dental Assistants in West Virginia earn 21% below the national median of $47,300. West Virginia ranks #47 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+1.7%Average Weekly Wage
$1,167Median annual salary
$37,330Hourly estimate
$17.9521% below national median
Difference: -$9,970
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationDental Assistant Salary Ranking
#47 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| West Virginia | $37,330 | No educational requirements | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Pennsylvania | $48,290 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Maryland | $48,280 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Virginia | $46,910 | Degree required | No exam required | Varies by board |
| Kentucky | $46,520 | Degree required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Ohio | $47,330 | Specific course required | Choice of state or third-party exam | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| West Virginia | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Pennsylvania | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Maryland | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Virginia | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Kentucky | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Ohio | 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
DENTAL EXAMINERS
See official licensing board website
Phone: 8779148266
Related Careers in West Virginia
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acupuncturist | $78,140 | Degree required | 18 years |
| Anesthesiologist | $168,390 | Degree required | 2-3 months |
| Athletic Trainer | $45,140 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Audiologist | $87,980 | Degree required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Dental Assistant in West Virginia?
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 West Virginia?
West Virginia lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Dental Assistants.
What education do you need to become a Dental Assistant in West Virginia?
The board typically expects No educational requirements for Dental Assistant licensure in West Virginia.
What is the typical Dental Assistant salary in West Virginia?
The median annual salary for Dental Assistants in West Virginia is $37,330. Salaries range from $30,660 (10th percentile) to $49,480 (90th percentile).
How does the Dental Assistant salary in West Virginia compare to the national average?
Dental Assistants in West Virginia earn 21% below the national median of $47,300, with a state median of $37,330.
How many Dental Assistants work in West Virginia?
West Virginia employs approximately 1,380 Dental Assistants according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Dental Assistant license to West Virginia 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 West Virginia?
The licensing agency is DENTAL EXAMINERS. Review agency details at http://www.wvdentalboard.org/.
How often do you renew a Dental Assistant license in West Virginia?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.