District of Columbia Dental Assistant Requirements

To be registered as a Level III Dental Assistant in the District of Columbia, one must:

1. Have graduated from high school or hold a general equivalency diploma
AND

2. Successfully complete a dental assisting education program approved by the D.C. Board of Dentistry or accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA)
AND

3. Complete a course in dental radiography training consisting of at least twenty-four (24) hours of coursework in radiology, radiation safety, biology, and physics, and has successfully passed the examination(s) required for successful completion of the program
AND

4. Hold a current and valid certification as a Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) in general duties from the DANB or another dental assisting certification approved by the Board
AND

5. Obtain DANB Certified Preventive Functions Dental Assistant (CPFDA) Certification
AND

6. Pass a Board-approved, hands-on course in the functions and duties permitted to be performed by a Level III Dental Assistant
AND

7. Pass the District of Columbia Dental Assistant Law Examination
AND

8. Apply for registration as a Level III Dental Assistant to the D.C. Board of Dentistry