Michigan State Requirements

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Radiography Requirements

To legally operate dental x-ray equipment and perform dental radiographic procedures in Michigan, a dental assistant must meet the requirements shown below.

Dental Assisting Job Titles and Requirements for Each Level

  • Dental Assistant

    A dental assistant in Michigan may perform basic supportive dental procedures specified by the state dental practice act and administrative rules under the direct or general supervision of a licensed dentist.

    There are no other education or training requirements for this level of dental assisting, except for the aforementioned training required to operate dental radiography equipment (see above).

  • Registered Dental Assistant (RDA)

    To become licensed as a Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) in Michigan, one must:

    1.  Receive a degree or certificate from a CODA-accredited dental assisting program or a school of dental assisting meeting Michigan Board of Dentistry requirements, which includes required instruction in Michigan expanded functions*, AND

    2.  Pass the Michigan board comprehensive and clinical exam or pass an equivalent exam in another state (proof of out-of-state licensure required), AND

    3.  Complete the fingerprinting/criminal background check process, AND

    4.  Apply for a license to the Michigan Board of Dentistry.

    Beginning January 1, 2022, complete training in identifying victims of human trafficking in accordance with standards set forth  in the Michigan Administrative Code.

    *Note: Individuals who earned the RDA credential prior to March 22, 2004, must complete additional expanded functions training courses before performing specified expanded functions.

Additional Resources

State Search

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