Apply for a License
- Apply online
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Getting started
Online Application Instructions
Online application instructions are on our website.
Once you have completed the process, you will find your pending credential number on Provider Credential Search. Refer to this credential number any time you contact the Department of Health or submit paperwork.
- Apply on paper
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The following forms are required for completing the application process. Please download and print forms.
- Dental Assistant Registration Application (PDF)
- Dental Assistant Sealant Varnish Endorsement (PDF)
- Dental Assistant Expired Registration Activation Application (PDF)
- Dental Assistant Portability of Professional Licenses of Members of the Uniformed Services and Their Spouses Application (PDF)
- Credential Verification (PDF)
Fee Schedule
- See fee information below
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- Application - $40
- Renewal - $25
- Late renewal - $25
- Expired reactivation - $20
- Duplicate - $15
- Verification - $25
- Sealant endorsement - $50
Fees submitted with applications for initial credentialing, examinations, renewal, and other fees associated with the licensing and regulation of the profession are non-refundable, per WAC 246-12-340.
Registration Requirements
- See registration requirements below
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State license verification
Applicants must list all states where they do or did hold credentials. This list must also include when the applicant has applied for a credential, even if a credential was not granted. The jurisdiction where the applicant is or was credentialed must complete and submit the verification form (PDF). The jurisdiction must send the completed form directly to the department.
Personal data questions
Each applicant must answer the personal data questions. An appropriate explanation and required documentation must be sent with positive answers. If there is a positive answer to the professional liability claims history question, the applicant must send an explanation of the nature of the case, data and summary of care given, copies of the original complaint, and the settlement or final disposition. If pending, applicant must indicate status.
Process for approving/denying applications
We finish final review for approval after a credentialing specialist verifies that the application is fully complete, and complies with requirements in chapter 18.260 RCW and chapter 246-817 WAC. We complete background checks and make sure applicants have submitted required fees. Credentialing supervisors and lead workers have the authority to approve routine applications. The disciplining authority may conduct further review if the credentialing supervisor can't verify the applicant meets all requirements. We'll formally notify applicants of a denial. Those applicants may request a hearing to appeal the decision.
Renewal requirements
Dental assistants must renew their registration every year. Credentials expire on the credential holder's birthday and may be renewed within 90 days of the expiration date. A courtesy renewal notice will be mailed to your address on record. You must keep your address current with us. Any renewal postmarked or presented to the department after midnight on the expiration date is late.
Continuing education requirements
There are no continuing education requirements.
Helpful Tips and Information
The commission encourages practitioners to review and consider the following these helpful tips and suggestions.