Application Fee
See agencyVerified by PA Board of Healthcare
Dentist Licensing in Pennsylvania
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for dentist in Pennsylvania, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Dentist in Pennsylvania
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Specific course required.
- 2
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Exam and processing details
- Third-party exam required
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of State • Bureau of Professional & Occupational Affairs • Dentistry Board
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$168,740 median (2% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#29 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet Pennsylvania eligibility requirements for Dentist licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Specific course required.
- 3. Pass required examination steps: Third-party exam required.
- 4. Submit the application to Department of State~Bureau of Professional & Occupational Affairs~Dentistry Board and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in Pennsylvania
With a median salary of $168,740, Dentists in Pennsylvania earn 2% below the national median of $172,790. Pennsylvania ranks #29 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+1.7%Average Weekly Wage
$1,364Median annual salary
$168,740Hourly estimate
$81.132% below national median
Difference: -$4,050
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationDentist Salary Ranking
#29 of 50 statesfor Dentist median salary
Nearby States Comparison
Dentist licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pennsylvania | $168,740 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| New York | $164,060 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| New Jersey | $159,860 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Delaware | $224,690 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Maryland | $189,330 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| West Virginia | $147,440 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Ohio | $155,570 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pennsylvania | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| New York | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| New Jersey | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Delaware | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Maryland | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| West Virginia | 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
Department of State • Bureau of Professional & Occupational Affairs • Dentistry Board
P.O. Box 2649, Harrisburg, PA, 17105-2649
Phone: 7177837162
Related Careers in Pennsylvania
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acupuncturist | $78,140 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Anesthesiologist | N/A | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Athletic Trainer | $58,970 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Audiologist | $87,210 | Degree required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Dentist in Pennsylvania?
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 Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Dentists.
What education do you need to become a Dentist in Pennsylvania?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Dentist licensure in Pennsylvania.
What is the typical Dentist salary in Pennsylvania?
The median annual salary for Dentists in Pennsylvania is $168,740.
How does the Dentist salary in Pennsylvania compare to the national average?
Dentists in Pennsylvania earn 2% below the national median of $172,790, with a state median of $168,740.
How many Dentists work in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania employs approximately 3,210 Dentists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Dentist license to Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania?
The licensing agency is Department of State / Bureau of Professional & Occupational Affairs / Dentistry Board. Review agency details at https://www.dos.pa.gov/ProfessionalLicensing/BoardsCommissions/Dentistry/Pages/default.aspx.
How often do you renew a Dentist license in Pennsylvania?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.