International Students: California Dental X-Ray License Eligibility

International students can obtain a California dental X-ray license by fulfilling the requirements set by the Dental Board of California. These requirements include completing specific courses, such as radiation safety and X-ray certification training, and providing proof of Basic Life Support certification. Additionally, international dental schools must be approved by the Dental Board of California or undergo an international accreditation process with the Commission on Dental Accreditation of the American Dental Association (CODA). It is important to note that the requirements for dental assistants and X-ray licenses may vary across states, and students should refer to the official Dental Board of California website for the most up-to-date and accurate information.

Foreign dental school accreditation

For international students to obtain a California dental X-ray license, they must first complete the necessary courses and certifications. This includes the Radiation Safety Package, which covers the safe use of X-rays and other radiation equipment.

To obtain accreditation from CODA, foreign dental schools must undergo a comprehensive review process. This process typically includes an evaluation of the school's curriculum, faculty qualifications, facilities, and resources. The school must demonstrate that its program meets the same standards and requirements as accredited dental schools in the United States. This includes having a comparable curriculum, qualified instructors, adequate clinical training, and resources to support the educational program.

Accreditation by CODA is important for foreign dental schools as it provides recognition and credibility for their programs. It also facilitates the mobility of dental professionals between countries and enables graduates of accredited programs to be eligible for licensure in the United States. CODA-accredited foreign dental schools can provide their students with a seamless pathway to obtaining a dental license in the US, allowing them to practice as general dentists or pursue advanced specialties.

As of January 1, 2020, the Dental Board of California requires foreign dental schools to complete the international consultative and accreditation process with CODA or a comparable accrediting body. This means that students graduating from these accredited foreign dental schools are eligible to apply for dentist licensure in California. It is important for international students to ensure that their dental school has the necessary accreditation to facilitate their path towards obtaining a California dental X-ray license.

Licensure exam completion

To obtain a California dental x-ray license, international students must complete the necessary courses and examinations. The specific requirements may vary for students from different countries and educational backgrounds. However, the Dental Board of California has outlined specific guidelines and approved foreign dental schools that meet their standards.

For instance, students who graduated from the University De La Salle Bajio School of Dentistry in Mexico by May 16, 2026, are eligible to apply for dentist licensure in California. Similarly, students who enrolled in the Faculty (School) of Dentistry at the State University of Medicine and Pharmacy "Nicolae Testemitanu" in Moldova before January 1, 2020, are also eligible to apply for licensure upon graduation. These foreign dental schools have undergone the necessary international consultative and accreditation process, as mandated by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of the American Dental Association (CODA).

To maintain their eligibility, these foreign dental schools must continue to meet the accreditation standards set by CODA or a comparable accrediting body approved by the Dental Board of California. This ensures that the education and training received by international students are equivalent to the standards expected in California.

In addition to graduating from an approved foreign dental school, international students must also complete specific courses and examinations mandated by the Dental Board of California. These requirements include courses in radiation safety, x-ray techniques, and basic life support (BLS/CPR) certification. The radiation safety course covers classroom and clinical training in x-ray safety, film exposure, and digital techniques. It is designed to meet the criteria set by the Dental Board for the operation of dental radiographic equipment in California.

Upon completion of the necessary courses and examinations, international students can submit their applications for licensure to the Dental Board of California. The application process involves submitting the required documentation, fees, and proof of successful examination completion. By fulfilling these requirements, international students can obtain their California dental x-ray license and legally practice within the state.

Radiation safety certification

To obtain a California dental X-ray license, international students must meet specific requirements set by the Dental Board of California. These requirements include completing the necessary courses and certifications to ensure safe and effective dental practice.

One crucial aspect is achieving radiation safety certification, which is mandatory for anyone aiming to perform dental X-rays in California. This certification equips individuals with the knowledge and skills to handle radiation equipment safely and protect themselves and patients from potential harm.

The Radiation Safety Package offered by California Dental Certifications is designed to provide comprehensive training in this area. It covers essential topics such as taking dental radiographs, processing and mounting dental X-rays, and adhering to OSHA guidelines for personal protective equipment. Students will also undergo practical training, including Dexter mannequin exercises and working with actual patients under supervision.

To obtain the radiation safety certification, students must complete the required courses within 30 days. This timeline ensures that individuals can quickly gain the necessary skills to work in a dental office. After completing the certification, individuals can immediately seek employment in a dental office and concurrently work on their RDA application, which can be submitted 15 months after starting their career in this field.

It is important to note that the Dental Board of California has approved specific foreign dental schools, and graduates from these institutions are eligible to apply for dentist licensure in the state. International students from approved schools, such as the University De La Salle Bajio School of Dentistry in Mexico and the Faculty (School) of Dentistry at the State University of Medicine and Pharmacy "Nicolae Testemitanu" in Moldova, can pursue licensure by submitting an application and meeting the necessary requirements.

RDA application

International students can obtain a California dental X-ray license by completing the necessary courses and meeting the requirements set by the Dental Board of California.

To obtain a California dental license, one must submit an application online or via paper. Paper applications must include a check or money order made payable to the Dental Board of California. The specific application varies depending on the candidate's qualifications:

• Application to the Dental Board of California for licensure after successful completion of the WREB examination
• Application to the Board for licensure after successful completion of the ADEX examination
• Application for Licensure by Credential for dentists with a current and valid dental license in another state

The Dental Board of California has approved specific foreign dental schools, including:

• De La Salle University School of Dentistry in Mexico
• University De La Salle Bajio School of Dentistry in Mexico
• State University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Nicolae Testemitanu” in Moldova

To obtain an RDA card, one must first send in their application to the Dental Board. After passing the written test, the candidate will receive their RDA card.

The specific application for the RDA card depends on the candidate's qualifications:

• Applications #1 and #3 are for candidates with 15 months of work experience or those who have completed the CDC 1-month Assisting Course
• Applications #1 and #2 are for candidates who attended a 9-month Board-approved school
• Applications #1 and #4 are for candidates who attended a non-approved Dental Board of California dental assisting program for 1-9 months and have work experience

The application fee varies, and candidates must complete new fingerprinting for the application.

CPR certification

To obtain a California dental X-ray license, an individual must complete a course in radiation safety that includes training in X-ray safety, film exposure, and other related topics. This course is mandatory for all RDA applicants and is offered by various institutions, such as the Dental Specialties Institute, Inc. and OC Dental Academy. While the requirements for this license are set by the Dental Board of California, the eligibility of foreign dental schools is determined by the Commission on Dental Accreditation of the American Dental Association (CODA) or a comparable accrediting body approved by the Board.

Now, regarding CPR certification, it is important to note that this is a crucial component of basic life support (BLS) certification. BLS/CPR certification is required for individuals involved in the direct provision of patient care, including dental professionals. The American Heart Association (AHA) and the American Red Cross are the primary organizations that offer BLS/CPR certification. Their certifications are widely recognized and accepted across the United States, including California.

To obtain BLS/CPR certification from the AHA or the American Red Cross, individuals must complete an accredited training course. These courses are designed to teach individuals how to respond to cardiac arrest and other emergencies by providing cardiopulmonary resuscitation and other basic life support techniques. The courses cover a range of topics, including:

• Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR): This is the core technique taught in BLS courses. Individuals are trained in performing chest compressions and delivering rescue breaths to restore blood circulation and breathing in a person experiencing cardiac arrest.
• Using an automated external defibrillator (AED): Students learn how to operate an AED, a device that delivers an electric shock to restore the heart's normal rhythm during certain types of cardiac emergencies.
• Relief of choking: BLS courses instruct individuals on how to assist a person who is choking by performing back blows, abdominal thrusts, or other maneuvers to dislodge the obstruction.
• Basic emergency response: Participants are taught how to recognize and respond to various emergency situations, including severe bleeding, burns, poisoning, and other life-threatening conditions.
• Legal considerations: The courses also cover the legal aspects of providing emergency care, including consent, good Samaritan laws, and any state-specific regulations.

It is important to note that CPR certification typically has a validity period, after which recertification is required. The recertification interval may vary depending on the certifying organization and the specific requirements of the profession. For example, the American Red Cross and the American Heart Association require recertification for BLS/CPR every two years to maintain proficiency in these life-saving techniques.

Therefore, to obtain a California dental X-ray license, individuals must complete the necessary radiation safety course, which includes CPR certification as a component of basic life support training. This ensures that dental professionals are equipped with the knowledge and skills to handle medical emergencies that may arise in a dental setting.

Frequently asked questions