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 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Dentist in Kentucky
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: State exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: Specific type of conviction prohibited
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
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 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 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 6-24 months.
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 | 6-24 months |
| Indiana | $176,990 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Ohio | $155,570 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| West Virginia | $147,440 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Virginia | $182,570 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $154,460 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $172,790 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Illinois | $180,420 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kentucky | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Indiana | 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. |
| West Virginia | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Virginia | 64 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Continuing education compliance is required. |
| Tennessee | 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
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $90,950 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $76,180 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $59,900 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $46,520 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Dentist in Kentucky?
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 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. 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 Dentists in Kentucky?
The licensing agency is Commonwealth of Kentucky / Board of Dentistry. Review agency details at http://dentistry.ky.gov/.