Application Fee
See agencyVerified by NC Board of Healthcare
Dentist Licensing in North Carolina
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for dentist in North Carolina, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
No exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Dentist in North Carolina
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Secondary license (another license is a prerequisite)
- Education: Varies by state board
- Examination: No exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
NC Department of Revenue • Taxpayer Assistance
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$191,280 median (11% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#12 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 North Carolina
With a median salary of 191,280, Dentists in North Carolina earn 11% above the national median of $172,790. North Carolina ranks #12 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1.4%Average Weekly Wage
$1,298Median annual salary
$191,280Hourly estimate
$91.9611% above national median
Difference: +$18,490
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationDentist Salary Ranking
#12 of 50 statesfor Dentist median salary
Nearby States Comparison
Dentist licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| North Carolina | $191,280 | Varies by state board | No 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 |
| Georgia | $195,820 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| South Carolina | $158,460 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| North Carolina | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| 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. |
| Georgia | 29 | Low | Limited or restricted active licensing status. State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| South Carolina | 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
NC Department of Revenue • Taxpayer Assistance
3301 Terminal Drive, Suite 125, Raleigh, NC, 27604
Phone: 9197077500
Related Careers in North Carolina
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $79,460 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $80,350 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $59,390 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $48,710 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Dentist in North Carolina?
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 North Carolina?
North Carolina lists No exam required as part of the licensure process for Dentists.
What is the typical Dentist salary in North Carolina?
The median annual salary for Dentists in North Carolina is 191,280.
How does the Dentist salary in North Carolina compare to the national average?
Dentists in North Carolina earn 11% above the national median of $172,790, with a state median of 191,280.
How many Dentists work in North Carolina?
North Carolina employs approximately 4,410 Dentists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Dentist license to North Carolina 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 North Carolina?
The licensing agency is NC Department of Revenue / Taxpayer Assistance. Review agency details at https://www.ncdor.gov/taxes-forms/privilege-license-tax.