Apply for a License
Helpful tips and information | Additional frequently asked questions | Approved schools and states
- 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 PDF and Word forms are required for completing the application process. Please download and print forms.
- Expanded Function Dental Auxiliary License Application (PDF)
- Expanded Function Dental Auxiliary Expired License Reactivation (PDF)
- Credential Verification (PDF)
Schools expanded function dental auxiliary education program
- Expanded Function Dental Auxiliary (EFDA) Education Program Application Packet (PDF) – (for schools to provide EFDA education.)
- Expanded Function Dental Auxiliary (EFDA) Curriculum Guideline (PDF)
Fee Schedule
- See licensing fees below
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Non-Refundable Fee Type Fee Amount Application $175 Renewal $165 Late renewal $85 Expired reactivation $50 Duplicate $15 Verification $25
Licensing Requirements
- See licensing requirements below
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Education and training
- Applicants must successfully complete a dental assisting education program accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA). Official school transcript directly from the school is required.
or
- Obtain the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB), certification through Pathway II, and a separate dental assisting review course. Verification of DANB certification is required.
or
- Hold a Washington limited license to practice dental hygiene.
And
- Successful completion of an expanded function dental auxiliary education program approved by the commission. Approved programs on our website. A certificate of completion or official school transcript is required.
An applicant who holds a full license to dental hygiene under Chapter 18.29 RCW is considered to have met the requirements for EFDA licensure upon demonstrating completion of training in final impressions as approved by the commission. A certificate of completion of a final impressions course is required.
Examinations
- Applicants must pass Washington State Restorative (WARE) written examination provided by Dental Assisting National Board (DANB). DANB examination scores are provided directly to the department.
And
- Applicants must pass restorative clinical examination provided by Western Regional Examining Board (WREB). An original scorecard or a certified copy of the scorecard is required.
Or
- Applicants must pass restorative clinical examination provided by Central Regional Dental Testing (CRDTS). An original scorecard or a certified copy of the scorecard is required.
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 the case is 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
Expanded function dental auxiliaries must renew their license 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.