Application Fee
See agencyVerified by TN Board of Healthcare
Dentist Licensing in Tennessee
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for dentist in Tennessee, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Dentist in Tennessee
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Register with licensing agency
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: Background check required
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Health • Division of Health Related Boards • Division of Health Related Boards
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$154,460 median (11% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#42 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 Tennessee
With a median salary of 154,460, Dentists in Tennessee earn 11% below the national median of $172,790. Tennessee ranks #42 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+0.6%Average Weekly Wage
$1,297Median annual salary
$154,460Hourly estimate
$74.2611% below national median
Difference: -$18,330
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationDentist Salary Ranking
#42 of 50 statesfor Dentist median salary
Nearby States Comparison
Dentist licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tennessee | $154,460 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Kentucky | $135,550 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Virginia | $182,570 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| North Carolina | $191,280 | Varies by state board | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Georgia | $195,820 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Alabama | $172,790 | Specific course required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Mississippi | $128,570 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Arkansas | $172,490 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $172,790 | Degree 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tennessee | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Kentucky | 50 | Low | 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. |
| North Carolina | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Georgia | 29 | Low | Limited or restricted active licensing status. State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Alabama | 56 | Medium | 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
Department of Health • Division of Health Related Boards • Division of Health Related Boards
665 Mainstream Drive 2nd floor, Nashville, TN, 37243
Phone: 6155325073
Agency website was unavailable in source data, using official search fallback.
Related Careers in Tennessee
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $89,670 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $79,240 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $57,760 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $46,090 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Dentist in Tennessee?
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 Tennessee?
Tennessee lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Dentists.
What education do you need to become a Dentist in Tennessee?
The board typically expects Degree required for Dentist licensure in Tennessee.
What is the typical Dentist salary in Tennessee?
The median annual salary for Dentists in Tennessee is 154,460.
How does the Dentist salary in Tennessee compare to the national average?
Dentists in Tennessee earn 11% below the national median of $172,790, with a state median of 154,460.
How many Dentists work in Tennessee?
Tennessee employs approximately 1,470 Dentists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Dentist license to Tennessee 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 Tennessee?
The licensing agency is Department of Health / Division of Health Related Boards / Division of Health Related Boards.