Career roadmap
How to Become a Dentist
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a dentist, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a dentist: (1) earn a bachelor’s degree, (2) take the DAT, (3) complete dental school, (4) pass board and clinical exams, (5) practice or specialize. Most people need about 8 years after high school. BLS lists “doctoral or professional degree” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a dentist
Earn a bachelor’s degree
Complete science prerequisites.
Take the DAT
Dental Admission Test.
Complete dental school
Four years.
Pass board and clinical exams
Get licensed.
Practice or specialize
Join, buy or start a practice.
Education and training requirements
A DDS or DMD degree from an accredited dental school is required, usually after a bachelor’s degree, plus passing the Integrated National Board Dental Examination and a clinical exam.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | Doctoral or professional degree |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | None |
| Typical training time | 8 years after high school |
Certifications and licenses
- State dental license: Required to practice.
- INBDE: Integrated National Board Dental Examination.
- DEA registration: To prescribe controlled substances.
- Sedation permits: Required to provide sedation.
Skills to build now
Start with restorative dentistry, oral diagnosis, and radiography, and practice manual dexterity and communication. Learning the dentist vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Associate Dentist: Practice in a group.
- Practice Owner: Run a practice.
- Specialist: After residency.
- Faculty or Dental Director: Teach or lead.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Dentist training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
How long does it take to become a dentist?
Usually 8 years: a bachelor’s and four years of dental school.
How long does it take to become a dentist?
Most people need about 8 years after high school of training. A DDS or DMD degree from an accredited dental school is required, usually after a bachelor’s degree, plus passing the Integrated National Board Dental Examination and a clinical exam.
Do you need a degree to be a dentist?
Yes. BLS lists a doctoral or professional degree as the typical entry-level education, and you also need a state license to practice.
What certifications are available for dentists?
Common credentials include State dental license, INBDE, DEA registration, and Sedation permits. All states license dentists, requiring a dental degree, the INBDE and a clinical licensing exam.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 29-1021 (Dentists, general).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Dentists, general (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.