Application Fee
See agencyVerified by VA Board of Healthcare
Dentist Licensing in Virginia
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for dentist in Virginia, 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 Virginia
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Health Professions • Virginia Board of Dentistry
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$182,570 median (6% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#15 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 Virginia
With a median salary of 182,570, Dentists in Virginia earn 6% above the national median of $172,790. Virginia ranks #15 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+1.6%Average Weekly Wage
$1,471Median annual salary
$182,570Hourly estimate
$87.776% above national median
Difference: +$9,780
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationDentist Salary Ranking
#15 of 50 statesfor Dentist median salary
Nearby States Comparison
Dentist licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Virginia | $182,570 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Maryland | $189,330 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| West Virginia | $147,440 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Kentucky | $135,550 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $154,460 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| North Carolina | $191,280 | Varies by state board | No 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Virginia | 64 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Continuing education compliance is required. |
| Maryland | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| West Virginia | 56 | Medium | 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. |
| Tennessee | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| North Carolina | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
- 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 Professions • Virginia Board of Dentistry
9960 Mayland Drive, Suite 300, Richmond, VA, 23233-1485
Phone: 8043674538
Related Careers in Virginia
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $85,590 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $94,140 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $60,720 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $46,910 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Dentist in Virginia?
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 Virginia?
Virginia lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Dentists.
What education do you need to become a Dentist in Virginia?
The board typically expects Degree required for Dentist licensure in Virginia.
What is the typical Dentist salary in Virginia?
The median annual salary for Dentists in Virginia is 182,570.
How does the Dentist salary in Virginia compare to the national average?
Dentists in Virginia earn 6% above the national median of $172,790, with a state median of 182,570.
How many Dentists work in Virginia?
Virginia employs approximately 3,890 Dentists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Dentist license to Virginia 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 Virginia?
The licensing agency is Department of Health Professions / Virginia Board of Dentistry. Review agency details at https://www.dhp.virginia.gov/Boards/Dentistry/.