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 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Dentist in California
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Varies by state board.
- 2
License Type: Register with licensing agency.
Exam and processing details
- State-approved exam
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 California eligibility requirements for Dentist licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training (Education: Varies by state board.).
- 3. Pass required examination steps: State-approved exam.
- 4. Submit the application to Department of Consumer Affairs~Dental Board of California and monitor board communications.
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 Varies by board.
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 | Varies by board |
| Oregon | $185,790 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Nevada | $125,180 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | Varies by board |
| Arizona | $206,660 | Varies by state board | State-approved 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Oregon | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Nevada | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Arizona | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acupuncturist | $77,640 | Varies by state board | 1-2 years |
| Anesthesiologist | N/A | Varies by state board | 1-12 months |
| Athletic Trainer | $74,150 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Audiologist | $123,600 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Dentist in California?
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 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. 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/.
How often do you renew a Dentist license in California?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.