Michigan Dental Assistant Requirements

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

1. Be of good moral character, AND

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

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

4. Complete two hours of implicit bias training within the five years prior to registration, AND

5. Complete a one-time training in identifying victims of human trafficking, AND

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

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

Additionally, to receive an RDA license, an applicant must demonstrate a working knowledge of the English language under the minimum standards established by the Michigan Department of Licensing & Regulatory Affairs. See Section R.338.7002b of the Michigan Administrative Rules or further details.