LicenseCompass

Dentist License in Connecticut

Quick Answer

To become a licensed dentist in Connecticut, graduate from a CODA-accredited dental school, pass the INBDE, and complete an approved regional board clinical exam. The Department of Public Health oversees licensure.

Exam
INBDE + approved regional board exam + Connecticut approved clinical exam
Timeline
4-8 years (dental school) + 3-6 months (licensing)
Renewal
Every Annual

Requirements

Dentist license in Connecticut

gold
Education
Degree required
Exam
State exam required
Veterans Benefits
N/A - Not displayed

Licensing Agency

Department of Public Health~Health Care Systems Branch~Practitioner Licensing & Investigations Section

Dentist Salary in Connecticut

Entry Level

$104,000

Median

$193,230

Experienced

$239,200

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salary data is for informational purposes only.

How to Get Licensed

Step-by-step roadmap to becoming a licensed Dentist in Connecticut.

  1. 1

    Complete Education Requirements

    Degree required

  2. 2

    Pass the Required Exam

    State exam required — INBDE + approved regional board exam + Connecticut approved clinical exam

  3. 3

    Submit Your Application

    File your application with the licensing agency.

  4. 4

    Receive Your License

    Processing typically takes 4-8 years (dental school) + 3-6 months (licensing).

Dentist Licensing in Connecticut: What to Know

Connecticut requires graduation from a CODA-accredited dental school, passage of the NBDE/INBDE examinations, and a regional board examination approved by the Connecticut State Dental Commission and Department of Public Health. The COS entry specifically mentions these three-tier requirements. Connecticut's Department of Public Health handles licensure through the Practitioner Licensing & Investigations Section. The state requires a dental degree (not just specific courses) and has a state exam component in addition to national and clinical exams. Connecticut's proximity to New York creates interesting cross-border practice dynamics.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a Dentist license in Connecticut?
The process typically takes 4-8 years (dental school) + 3-6 months (licensing), depending on education completion and exam scheduling.
What exam do I need for a Dentist license in Connecticut?
You need to pass the INBDE + approved regional board exam + Connecticut approved clinical exam. State exam required

Considering another state?

Compare Dentist requirements across states.

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Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 14, 2026.