How to Become a Dental Assistant in 2026
Dental assistants support dentists with patient care, X-rays, and office tasks. Requirements swing widely by state — some allow on-the-job training, while others require a program and a Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) credential.
Steps to become a dental assistant
- 1Check your state's requirements
Some states let you train on the job; others require a state-approved dental-assisting program. BLS lists a postsecondary nondegree award as the typical entry-level education.
- 2Complete training or an accredited program
Where required, finish an accredited program that covers chairside assisting, radiography, and infection control.
- 3Pass DANB exams where required
Many states require Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) exams — for example to earn the Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) credential or to perform expanded functions or radiography.
- 4Obtain your state credential
Register, certify, or license with your state dental board according to its specific rules.
Dental Assistant salary
National median; pay varies by state, practice, and experience. Requirements and pay vary by state and experience.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Outlook Handbook →The examyou'll need
PrepPass has free practice questions and a full timed mock exam for this exam — no signup required.
Dental-assisting rules vary more by state than almost any role here — from on-the-job training with no exam to mandatory DANB certification and radiography licensure. Verify with your state dental board.
Always verify the current requirements with the DANB and your state dental board before you start.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you need a license to be a dental assistant?+
It depends entirely on your state. Some states allow on-the-job training with no exam, while others require a state-approved program plus DANB certification and separate radiography permits. Check your state dental board.
How much do dental assistants make?+
The median annual wage for dental assistants was $47,300 in May 2024, according to the BLS. Pay varies by state, practice type, and expanded-function credentials.
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Salary figures are U.S. national medians from the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook (May 2024). Last updated: July 2026