Dental Assistant Licensing Information

Apply for a License

Apply online

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

The following forms are required for completing the application process. Please download and print forms.

Fee Schedule

See fee information below
Non-Refundable Fee Type Fee Amount
Application $40
Renewal $25
Late renewal $25
Expired reactivation $20
Duplicate $15
Verification $25
Sealant endorsement $50

Registration Requirements

See registration requirements below

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.

Additional Licensing Information

Renew your credential

License renewal information