Application Fee
See agencyVerified by CA Board of Healthcare
Dentist Licensing in California
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for dentist in California, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Dentist in California
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Register with licensing agency
- Education: Varies by state board
- Examination: State-approved exam
- Application Fee: See agency
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Consumer Affairs • Dental Board of California
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$178,540 median (3% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#18 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet baseline eligibility requirements.
- 2. Complete approved education/training requirements.
- 3. Pass required exam(s) and submit application.
- 4. Maintain and renew license according to board rules.
Salary Insights in California
With a median salary of 178,540, Dentists in California earn 3% above the national median of $172,790. California ranks #18 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1.4%Average Weekly Wage
$1,758Median annual salary
$178,540Hourly estimate
$85.843% above national median
Difference: +$5,750
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationDentist Salary Ranking
#18 of 50 statesfor Dentist median salary
Nearby States Comparison
Dentist licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | $178,540 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Oregon | $185,790 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Nevada | $125,180 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Arizona | $206,660 | Varies by state board | State-approved 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Oregon | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Nevada | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Arizona | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Department of Consumer Affairs • Dental Board of California
2005 Evergreen Street, Suite 1550, Sacramento, CA, 95815
Phone: 9162632300
Related Careers in California
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $123,600 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $85,080 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $71,920 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $48,910 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Dentist in California?
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 is the typical Dentist salary in California?
The median annual salary for Dentists in California is 178,540.
How does the Dentist salary in California compare to the national average?
Dentists in California earn 3% above the national median of $172,790, with a state median of 178,540.
How many Dentists work in California?
California employs approximately 14,760 Dentists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Dentist license to California from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Dentists in California?
The licensing agency is Department of Consumer Affairs / Dental Board of California. Review agency details at https://www.dbc.ca.gov/.