Dental Assistant / Tennessee
2026 data Tennessee board official source

Tennessee Dental Assistant License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

What the state board actually requires: fees, renewal cycle, and requirements from official records.

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Assists dentists during procedures, takes X-rays, and manages patient records.

What the Tennessee data shows for Dental Assistants

Tennessee sets the entry bar for dental assistants at 1,000 training hours and a passing score on a state-approved exam. A background check is a standard part of the process. The credential is administered under Tennessee's licensing regime, which classifies the training track as "Certificate/Degree".

The initial price tag is $100 every 2 years. Continuing education is not a listed requirement for this profession in Tennessee, so the annualized maintenance burden is lower than in states that mandate ongoing hours.

Tennessee handles out-of-state credentials on a case-by-case basis instead of a standing reciprocity list.

Licensing Requirements in Tennessee

Education / Training Hours
Certificate/Degree
1,000 hours
Exam Requirement
Required
Initial License Fee
$100
Renewal Fee
N/A
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
Not required
Criminal History Check
Required

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Compare all states for Dental Assistant All Tennessee licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Tennessee licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Dental Assistant in Tennessee? ▼
Tennessee's requirements cover 1000 hours of education or training, a state exam, and an initial fee of $100. Applicants also go through a criminal background check.
How do I get certified as a Dental Assistant in Tennessee? ▼
To become a licensed dental assistant in Tennessee, you must meet the state's requirements including 1000 hours of education. You must also pass the required examination. Contact the Tennessee licensing board to verify current requirements.
Can I transfer my Dental Assistant license to Tennessee from another state? ▼
Out-of-state dental assistant credentials get a case-by-case review in Tennessee rather than automatic recognition. Interstate compacts exist for a number of professions and might still help. Confirm the details with the Tennessee licensing board.
Does Tennessee require a background check for Dental Assistant licensing? ▼
Tennessee does require a background check before issuing a dental assistant license. What counts as disqualifying, and how it's reviewed, is up to the state licensing board.

Related Guides

Source: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites

Read our methodology - how this data is sourced, computed, and verified.