Application Fee
See agencyVerified by WV Board of Healthcare
Dentist Licensing in West Virginia
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for dentist in West 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 West Virginia
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Specific course required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: No experience required
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
DENTAL EXAMINERS
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$147,440 median (15% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#43 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 West Virginia
With a median salary of 147,440, Dentists in West Virginia earn 15% below the national median of $172,790. West Virginia ranks #43 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+1.7%Average Weekly Wage
$1,167Median annual salary
$147,440Hourly estimate
$70.8815% below national median
Difference: -$25,350
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationDentist Salary Ranking
#43 of 50 statesfor Dentist median salary
Nearby States Comparison
Dentist licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| West Virginia | $147,440 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Pennsylvania | $168,740 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Maryland | $189,330 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Virginia | $182,570 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Kentucky | $135,550 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Ohio | $155,570 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| West Virginia | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Pennsylvania | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Maryland | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Virginia | 64 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Continuing education compliance is required. |
| Kentucky | 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. |
- 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
DENTAL EXAMINERS
See official licensing board website
Phone: 8779148266
Related Careers in West Virginia
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $87,980 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $77,780 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $60,240 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $37,330 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Dentist in West 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 West Virginia?
West Virginia lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Dentists.
What education do you need to become a Dentist in West Virginia?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Dentist licensure in West Virginia.
What is the typical Dentist salary in West Virginia?
The median annual salary for Dentists in West Virginia is 147,440.
How does the Dentist salary in West Virginia compare to the national average?
Dentists in West Virginia earn 15% below the national median of $172,790, with a state median of 147,440.
How many Dentists work in West Virginia?
West Virginia employs approximately 400 Dentists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Dentist license to West 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 West Virginia?
The licensing agency is DENTAL EXAMINERS. Review agency details at http://www.wvdentalboard.org/.