Application Fee
See agencyVerified by KY Board of Healthcare
Dentist Licensing in Kentucky
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for dentist in Kentucky, 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 Dentist in Kentucky
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Degree required.
- 2
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Exam and processing details
- State exam required
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Commonwealth of Kentucky • Board of Dentistry
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$135,550 median (22% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#46 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet Kentucky eligibility requirements for Dentist licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Degree required.
- 3. Pass required examination steps: State exam required.
- 4. Submit the application to Commonwealth of Kentucky~Board of Dentistry and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in Kentucky
With a median salary of $135,550, Dentists in Kentucky earn 22% below the national median of $172,790. Kentucky ranks #46 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1.3%Average Weekly Wage
$1,180Median annual salary
$135,550Hourly estimate
$65.1722% below national median
Difference: -$37,240
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationDentist Salary Ranking
#46 of 50 statesfor Dentist median salary
Nearby States Comparison
Dentist licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kentucky | $135,550 | Degree required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Indiana | $176,990 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Ohio | $155,570 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | Varies by board |
| West Virginia | $147,440 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Virginia | $182,570 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Tennessee | $154,460 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Missouri | $172,790 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Illinois | $180,420 | Specific course required | Third-party 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kentucky | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Indiana | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Ohio | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| West Virginia | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Virginia | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Tennessee | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
Commonwealth of Kentucky • Board of Dentistry
312 Whittington Parkway, Suite 101, Louisville, KY, 40222
Phone: 5024297280
Related Careers in Kentucky
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acupuncturist | $82,220 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Anesthesiologist | $280,130 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Athletic Trainer | $51,550 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Audiologist | $90,950 | Degree required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Dentist in Kentucky?
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 Dentists in Kentucky?
Kentucky lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Dentists.
What education do you need to become a Dentist in Kentucky?
The board typically expects Degree required for Dentist licensure in Kentucky.
What is the typical Dentist salary in Kentucky?
The median annual salary for Dentists in Kentucky is $135,550.
How does the Dentist salary in Kentucky compare to the national average?
Dentists in Kentucky earn 22% below the national median of $172,790, with a state median of $135,550.
How many Dentists work in Kentucky?
Kentucky employs approximately 910 Dentists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Dentist license to Kentucky 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 Kentucky?
The licensing agency is Commonwealth of Kentucky / Board of Dentistry. Review agency details at http://dentistry.ky.gov/.
How often do you renew a Dentist license in Kentucky?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.