Title 201 | Chapter 008 | Regulation 533REG
PROPOSED
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PREVIOUS VERSION
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GENERAL GOVERNMENT CABINET
Kentucky Board of Dentistry
(Amendment)
201 KAR 8:533.Licensure of dentists.
Section 1.
General Licensure Requirements. An applicant desiring initial licensure in Kentucky as a general dentist shall:(1)
Understand, read, speak, and write the English language with a comprehension and performance level equal to at least the ninth grade of education, verified by testing as necessary;(2)
Submit a completed and signed(3)
Pay the fee required by 201 KAR 8:520;(4)
Not be subject to disciplinary action pursuant to KRS Chapter 313 that would prevent licensure;(5)
Complete and pass the board's jurisprudence exam;(6)
Hold an active certification in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) or a more comprehensive program which meets or exceeds the American Heart Association Guidelines for CPR and ECC;(7)
Submit to a nationwide state and federal criminal background check by fingerprint through the Department of Kentucky State Police;(8)
Provide verification of any license to practice dentistry held previously or currently in any state or other licensing jurisdiction;(9)
Hold a Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry (DMD) or Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree from a dental school program(10)
Successfully complete the National Board Dental Examination (NBDE) Part I and Part II or the Integrated National Board Dental Examination (INBDE), conducted by the Joint Commission on National Dental Examinations (JCNDE);(11)
Provide a written explanation for any positive returns on a query of the National Practitioner Data Bank; and(12)
Complete all additional requirements for one (1) of the following:(a)
Licensure by clinical examination;(b)
Licensure by credentials; or(c)
Licensure by foreign training.Section 2.
Requirements for Licensure by Clinical Examination.(1)
An individual desiring initial licensure in Kentucky as a general dentist by clinical examination shall:(a)
Complete all requirements in Section 1 of this administrative regulation; and(b)
Successfully complete all components of one (1) of the following clinical examinations within the five (5) years preceding the filing of the application:1.
The dental examination of the American Board of Dental Examiners (ADEX) or its predecessor agencies.2.
The dental examination of the Central Regional Dental Testing Service (CRDTS) or its predecessor agencies; or3.
4.
5.
3.6.
The Dental Licensure Objective Structured Clinical Examination (DLOSCE) of the JCNDE.(2)
An individual applying more than two (2) years after graduating with a DDS or DMD, shall:(a)
Hold a license to practice dentistry in good standing in another state or other U.S. licensing jurisdiction(b)
Complete a continuing education plan approved by the board.(3)
An applicant who has taken a clinical examination three (3) times and failed to achieve a passing score shall complete a remediation plan approved by the board.Section 3.
Requirements for Licensure by Credentials. An individual desiring initial licensure in Kentucky as a general dentist by credentials shall:(1)
Complete all requirements in Section 1 of this administrative regulation;(2)
Successfully complete a state, regional, or national clinical examination used to determine clinical competency in dentistry in another(3)
Be licensed and actively practicing dentistry in anotherSection 4.
Requirements for Licensure by International(1)
An individual desiring initial licensure in Kentucky as a(a)
Complete all requirements in Section 1 of this administrative regulation, except for subsection (9);(b)
Pass the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) administered by the Educational Testing Service with a score of 650 on the paper-based test (PBT) or a score of 116 on the internet-based test (iBT), if English is not the applicant's primary language;(c)
Successfully complete two (2) years of postgraduate training in a CODA accredited advanced dental education(d)
Submit a letter of satisfactory program completion from the program director of each postgraduate training site; and(e)
Successfully complete a clinical examination required by Section 2(1)(b) of this administrative regulation within five (5) years preceding the filing of the application.(2)
An individual applying for dental licensure more than two (2) years after completing a CODA accredited advanced dental education(a)
Hold a license to practice dentistry in good standing in another state or other U.S. licensing jurisdiction(b)
Complete a continuing education plan approved by the board.(3)
Qualified individuals applying for dental licensure under this section who have completed a two-year Advanced Education in General Dentistry Program (AEGD), General Practice Residency (GPR), or other CODA accredited advanced dental education program in general dentistry shall be issued a general dentist license and shall not practice outside the scope of general dentistry.(4)
Qualified individuals applying for dental licensure under this section who have completed a CODA accredited advanced dental education program in a dental specialty shall be issued a dental specialist license and shall not practice as a general dentist or in any other capacity outside the scope of their specialty except as provided for in KRS 313.035(3).Section 5.
Requirements for Student Limited Licensure.(1)
An individual desiring limited licensure in Kentucky as a student shall:(a)
Complete all requirements in Section 1 of this administrative regulation, except for subsections (9) and (10);(b)
Submit a letter from the dean or program director of a postgraduate, residency, or fellowship program in Kentucky stating that the applicant has been accepted into the program and the expected date of completion;(c)
Submit a signed Statement Regarding Student Licensure Limitations; and(d)
Submit an official final transcript of the applicant's dental coursework with the degree posted.(2)
A student limited license holder shall only practice dentistry in conjunction with programs of the dental school where the individual is a student and shall only provide professional services to patients of these programs.(3)
A student limited license may be renewed in accordance with Section 10 of this administrative regulation, but shall automatically expire if the student graduates from or exits the program.(4)
A program enrolling a student limited license holder shall notify the board in writing of the date the student graduates from or exits the program.(5)
Nothing in this section shall prohibit:(a)
A student from performing a dental procedure under the direct supervision of a competent instructor within the dental school, college, or department of a university or private practice facility approved by the board. The board may authorize a student to practice dentistry within a state or municipal institution, public school, board of health, public clinic, or charitable entity. A fee shall not be accepted by the student beyond the expenses covered by a stipend;(b)
A student limited license holder from working under the general supervision of a licensed dentist within the confines of the postgraduate training program; and(c)
A volunteer health practitioner from providing services under KRS 39A.350-39A.366.Section 6.
Requirements for Faculty Limited Licensure.(1)
An individual desiring limited licensure in Kentucky as a faculty member shall:(a)
Complete all requirements in Section 1 of this administrative regulation with the exception of subsections (9) and (10);(b)
Submit a letter from the dean or program director of a Kentucky dental school stating that the applicant has received a faculty appointment;(c)
Submit a signed Statement Regarding Faculty Licensure Limitations; and(d)
Submit an official final transcript of the applicant's dental coursework with the degree posted.(2)
A faculty limited license holder shall only practice dentistry in conjunction with programs of the dental school where the individual is a faculty member and shall only provide professional services to patients of these programs.(3)
A faculty limited license may be renewed in accordance with Section 10 of this administrative regulation, but shall automatically expire if the licensee leaves their faculty position.(4)
A program employing a faculty limited license holder shall notify the board in writing of the date the licensee leaves his or her faculty position.Section 7.
Requirements for Charitable Limited Dental Licensure.(1)
An individual desiring limited licensure in Kentucky to provide charitable dental services shall:(a)
Understand, read, speak, and write the English language with a comprehension and performance level equal to at least the ninth grade of education, verified by testing as necessary;(b)
Submit a completed and signed(c)
Pay the fee required by 201 KAR 8:520;(d)
Not be subject to disciplinary action pursuant to KRS Chapter 313 that would prevent licensure;(e)
Hold a license to practice dentistry in good standing in another state or other U.S. licensing jurisdiction(f)
Provide a written explanation for any positive returns on a query of the National Practitioner Data Bank.(2)
A charitable limited dental license holder shall:(a)
Work only with charitable entities registered with the Cabinet for Health and Family Services that have met the requirements of KRS 313.254 and 201 KAR 8:581;(b)
Only perform procedures allowed by KRS 313.254(4) and (5) which shall be completed within the duration of the charitable event;(c)
Not prescribe any medications while practicing in Kentucky;(d)
Be eligible for the provisions of medical malpractice insurance procured under KRS 304.40-075; and(e)
Perform these duties without expectation of compensation or charge to the individual, and without payment or reimbursement by any governmental agency or insurer.Section 8.
Requirements for Specialty Licensure. An individual desiring initial licensure as a dental specialist in Kentucky as defined by KRS 313.010(9) shall:(1)
Submit a completed and signed(2)
Pay the fee required by 201 KAR 8:520;(3)
Hold an active Kentucky license to practice general dentistry prior to being issued a specialty license except as provided for in Section 4(4) of this administrative regulation; and(4)
Successfully complete a CODA accredited advanced dental educationSection 9.
Continuing Education Requirements.(1)
A Kentucky licensed dentist shall complete thirty (30) hours of continuing education during the two (2) year licensure period defined by KRS 313.030(2), except in the following cases:(a)
A licensee who was issued a new or reinstated license in the second year of the current biennial license period shall only complete one-half the required hours for that period;(b)
A licensee who graduated in the first year of the current biennial license period shall only complete one-half the required hours for that period;(c)
A licensee who graduated in the second year of the current biennial license period shall not be required to complete continuing education hours for that period;(d)
A charitable limited license holder shall not be required to complete continuing education hours;(e)
A licensee may be granted a medical hardship waiver or deferment if the request is submitted to and approved by the board; or(f)
A licensee may be granted a limited practice waiver as provided for in Section 10 of this administrative regulation.(2)
Acceptable continuing education content shall include:(a)
Competency in treating patients who are medically compromised or who experience medical emergencies during the course of dental treatment;(b)
Pharmaceutical products and proper use protocols of medications;(c)
Competence to diagnose oral pathology;(d)
Awareness of currently accepted methods of infection control;(e)
Basic medical and scientific subjects;(f)
Clinical and technological subjects;(g)
Patient management, safety, and oral healthcare;(h)
Mass casualty or mass immunization situations;(i)
Clinical dentistry performed on a charitable or volunteer basis;(j)
Business operations and best practices; and(k)
Dental association or society business meetings.(3)
The thirty (30) hours of continuing education shall include:(a)
A minimum of ten (10) hours taken in a live interactive presentation format;(b)
A maximum of ten (10) hours that meet the requirements of subsection (2)(i) - (k) of this section; and(c)
A minimum of three (3) hours in the use of the Kentucky All Schedule Prescription Electronic Reporting System (KASPER), pain management, or addiction disorders.(d)
A minimum of one-half (1/2) hour in Pediatric Abusive Head Trauma (PAHT) or Child Abuse and Neglect (CAN).(4)
Dentists who hold a board-issued sedation permit shall also meet the continuing education requirements of 201 KAR 8:550, Section 8.(5)
All continuing education hours shall be documented by a certificate of completion or attendance bearing:(a)
A signature or other verification of the provider;(b)
The name of the licensee in attendance;(c)
The title of the course or meeting attended or completed;(d)
The date of attendance or completion;(e)
The number of hours earned; and(f)
Evidence of the method of delivery if the course was taken in a live interactive presentation format.(6)
The licensee shall be responsible for obtaining the qualifying documentation of continuing education from the provider or sponsoring organization and to retain those documents for a minimum of five (5) years.(7)
During the license renewal process, licensees shall attest to their compliance with the requirements of this section.(8)
Licensees shall be subject to audit of their compliance with the requirements of this section.Section 10.
Limited Practice Continuing Education Waivers(1)
A licensee who has practiced in Kentucky for at least twenty (20) years and desires to continue practicing only in a relief or emergency capacity may receive a limited practice waiver of their general continuing education requirements if the request is submitted to and approved by the board.(2)
A licensee who has been granted a limited practice waiver shall:(a)
Not be required to complete continuing education hours if practicing for not more than thirty (30) days in a calendar year;(b)
Only complete one-half the continuing education hours if practicing more than thirty (30) days but not more than ninety (90) days in a calendar year; or(c)
Complete the full thirty (30) hours of continuing education if practicing for more than ninety days in a calendar year.(3)
A limited practice waiver shall:(a)
be issued for a single two-year cycle per licensee and may not be repeated; and(b)
Apply to general continuing education requirements only. Licensees shall still be required to complete all required hours for CPR certification and sedation permits beyond general licensure.Section 11.
Renewal of a Dental License.(1)
All dental licenses issued by the board shall expire on December 31 of odd-numbered years and shall be renewed to remain active. A licensee desiring renewal of an active general, specialty, student limited, or faculty limited dental license shall:(a)
Submit a completed and signed Application for Renewal of Dental Licensure or online equivalent;(b)
Pay the fee required by 201 KAR 8:520;(c)
Maintain an active certification in CPR or a more comprehensive program that meets or exceeds the American Heart Association Guidelines for CPR and ECC; and(d)
Meet the continuing education requirements in Section 9 of this administrative regulation.(2)
A licensee who has not actively practiced dentistry in the two (2) years preceding the filing of the renewal application shall complete a continuing education plan approved by the board prior to resuming the active practice of dentistry.(3)
A licensee desiring renewal of a charitable limited dental license shall repeat the initial licensure process required by Section 7 of this administrative regulation.Section 12.Section 11.
Retirement of a Dental License.(1)
A licensee desiring to no longer hold an active dental license in Kentucky shall submit a completed and signed Retirement of License Form or online equivalent.(2)
Upon receipt of this form, the board shall send written confirmation of retirement to the address provided.(3)
A licensee shall not retire a license that has pending disciplinary action against it.(4)
A license that is not properly retired or renewed shall be considered expired for reinstatement purposes.Section 13.Section 12.
Reinstatement of a Dental License.(1)
A former licensee desiring reinstatement of an expired or properly retired dental license in Kentucky shall:(a)
Submit a completed and signed(b)
Pay the fee required by 201 KAR 8:520;(c)
Hold an active certification in CPR or a more comprehensive program that meets or exceeds the American Heart Association Guidelines for CPR and ECC;(d)
Provide verification of any license to practice dentistry obtained in any state or other licensing jurisdiction since the applicant was first licensed in Kentucky;(e)
Submit to a nationwide state and federal criminal background check by fingerprint through the Department of Kentucky State Police; and(f)
Provide a written explanation for any positive returns on a query of the National Practitioner Data Bank.(2)
An applicant who has not actively practiced dentistry in the two (2) years preceding the filing of the reinstatement application shall complete a continuing education plan approved by the board prior to resuming the active practice of dentistry.(3)
A former licensee who applies to reinstate an expired license that was not properly retired shall be subject to:(a)
The expired license reinstatement penalties in 201 KAR 8:520 if applying less than two (2) years from when the license was last active; or(b)
The same reinstatement fees as a properly retired license if applying more than two (2) years from when the license was last active.Section 14.Section 13.
Verification of Licensure. An individual desiring an official verification of a dental license held currently or previously in Kentucky shall:(1)
Submit a completed and signed(2)
Pay the fee required by 201 KAR 8:520.Section 15.Section 14.
Issuance of Initial Licensure. Upon an applicant's completion of all requirements for dental licensure within six (6) months of the date the application was received, the board shall:(1)
Issue a license in sequential numerical order; or(2)
Deny licensure due to a violation of KRS Chapter 313 or 201 KAR Chapter 8.Section 16.Section 15.
Incorporation by Reference.(1)
The following material is incorporated by reference:(a)
"Application for Charitable Limited Licensure", January 2024;(b)
"Application for Dental Licensure", January 2024;(c)
"Application for Renewal of Dental Licensure", January 2024;(d)
"Application for Specialty Dental Licensure", January 2024;(e)
"Application to Reinstate Dental or Dental Hygiene Licensure", January 2024;(f)
"Retirement of License Form", January 2024;(g)
"Statement Regarding Faculty Licensure Limitations", January 2024;(h)
"Statement Regarding Student Licensure Limitations", January 2024;(i)
"Verification of Licensure or Registration Form", January 2024; and(j)
"2020 American Heart Association Guidelines for CPR and ECC", 2020.(2)
This material may be inspected, copied, or obtained, subject to applicable copyright law, at the Kentucky Board of Dentistry, 312 Whittington Parkway, Suite 101, Louisville, Kentucky 40222, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. through 4:30 p.m. This material is also available on the board's websiteJEFFREY ALLEN, Executive Director
APPROVED BY AGENCY: March 12, 2026
FILED WITH LRC: March 13, 2026 at 11:30 a.m.
PUBLIC HEARING AND COMMENT PERIOD: A public hearing on this administrative regulation shall be held on May 21, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. Eastern Time at the Kentucky Board of Dentistry, 312 Whittington Parkway, Suite 101, Louisville, Kentucky 40222. Individuals interested in being heard at this hearing shall notify this agency in writing by five workdays prior to the hearing, of their intent to attend. If no notification of intent to attend the hearing was received by that date, the hearing may be cancelled. A transcript of the public hearing will not be made unless a written request for a transcript is made. If you do not wish to be heard at the public hearing, you may submit written comments on the proposed administrative regulation. Written comments shall be accepted through May 31, 2025. Send written notification of intent to be heard at the public hearing or written comments on the proposed administrative regulation to the contact person below.
CONTACT PERSON: Jeff Allen, Executive Director, Kentucky Board of Dentistry, 312 Whittington Parkway, Suite 101, Louisville, Kentucky 40222, phone (502) 429-7280, fax (502) 429-7282, email jeffrey.allen@ky.gov.
REGULATORY IMPACT ANALYSIS AND TIERING STATEMENT
Contact Person:
Jeffrey Allen
Subject Headings:
Boards & Commissions, Dentistry, Licensing
(1) Provide a brief summary of:
(a) What this administrative regulation does:
This administrative regulation establishes requirements to practice dentistry in Kentucky.
(b) The necessity of this administrative regulation:
KRS 313.021(1)(a) requires the board to exercise the administrative functions of the Commonwealth in the regulation of dentists.
(c) How this administrative regulation conforms to the content of the authorizing statutes:
This administrative regulation establishes the rules for obtaining a license to practice as a dentist in Kentucky.
(d) How this administrative regulation currently assists or will assist in the effective administration of the statutes:
This administrative regulation establishes requirements for being licensed to practice dentistry in conformity with its authorizing statute.
(2) If this is an amendment to an existing administrative regulation, provide a brief summary of:
(a) How the amendment will change this existing administrative regulation:
This amendment: Removes notary requirements for applications to facilitate online applications. Updates references to clinical exam organizations to address recent mergers. Allows foreign-trained dentists to be licensed as specialists. Creates a "limited practice waiver" for semi-retired licensees to apply for a reduction in their continuing education requirements. Requires 0.5 hours of continuing education in Pediatric Head Trauma/Child Abuse every 2 years.
(b) The necessity of the amendment to this administrative regulation:
The amendment makes necessary updates to the licensure process and creates opportunities to expand access to care without sacrificing public protection.
(c) How the amendment conforms to the content of the authorizing statutes:
This amendment maintains established requirements for being licensed to practice dentistry in conformity with its authorizing statute.
(d) How the amendment will assist in the effective administration of the statutes:
The amendment makes necessary updates to the licensure process and creates opportunities to expand access to care without sacrificing public protection.
(3) Does this administrative regulation or amendment implement legislation from the previous five years?
No.
(4) List the type and number of individuals, businesses, organizations, or state and local governments affected by this administrative regulation:
This administrative regulation will primarily affect the approximately 3,000 licensed dentists in Kentucky as well as any new applicants for licensure and, indirectly, the patients of licensed dentists.
(5) Provide an analysis of how the entities identified in question (4) will be impacted by either the implementation of this administrative regulation, if new, or by the change, if it is an amendment, including:
(a) List the actions that each of the regulated entities identified in question (4) will have to take to comply with this administrative regulation or amendment:
Each individual impacted will be required to apply for or renew their licensure in accordance with applicable law and administrative regulations. The vast majority of those affected by the existing regulation will not be further affected by the amendment.
(b) In complying with this administrative regulation or amendment, how much will it cost each of the entities identified in question (4):
This administrative regulation does not specifically enumerate costs, which are already established in 201 KAR 8:520. Again, the vast majority of dentists will be unaffected.
(c) As a result of compliance, what benefits will accrue to the entities identified in question (4):
The administrative regulation will result in a healthier patient population and the avoidance of potentially costly violations of applicable law and administrative regulations by licensed dentists.
(6) Provide an estimate of how much it will cost the administrative body to implement this administrative regulation:
(a) Initially:
No additional cost.
(b) On a continuing basis:
No additional cost.
(7) What is the source of the funding to be used for the implementation and enforcement of this administrative regulation or this amendment:
Licensure fees are used to fund the implementation of this administrative regulation.
(8) Provide an assessment of whether an increase in fees or funding will be necessary to implement this administrative regulation, if new, or by the change if it is an amendment:
No increase in funds is needed for this amendment.
(9) State whether or not this administrative regulation establishes any fees or directly or indirectly increases any fees:
This administrative regulation does not impact existing fees, which are already established separately in 201 KAR 8:520.
(10) TIERING: Is tiering applied?
No; this administrative regulation impacts all similarly situated entities equally.
FISCAL IMPACT STATEMENT
(1) Identify each state statute, federal statute, or federal regulation that requires or authorizes the action taken by the administrative regulation:
This administrative regulation is authorized by KRS 313.021(1)(c) and KRS 313.040(1).
(2) State whether this administrative regulation is expressly authorized by an act of the General Assembly, and if so, identify the act:
This administrative regulation is expressly authorized by KRS 313.040(1).
(3)(a) Identify the promulgating agency and any other affected state units, parts, or divisions:
The Board of Dentistry is the promulgating agency.
(b) Estimate the following for each affected state unit, part, or division identified in (3)(a):
1. Expenditures:
For the first year:
There will be no additional administrative costs generated by this amendment.
For subsequent years:
There will be no additional administrative costs generated by this amendment.
2. Revenues:
For the first year:
This amendment does not alter the existing revenue generated by dental licensure, which is approximately $600,000 every fiscal biennium.
For subsequent years:
This amendment does not alter the existing revenue generated by dental licensure, which is approximately $600,000 every fiscal biennium.
3. Cost Savings:
For the first year:
None
For subsequent years:
None.
(4)(a) Identify affected local entities (for example: cities, counties, fire departments, school districts):
This amendment does not affect any local entities.
(b) Estimate the following for each affected local entity identified in (4)(a):
1. Expenditures:
For the first year:
None
For subsequent years:
None
2. Revenues:
For the first year:
None
For subsequent years:
None
3. Cost Savings:
For the first year:
None
For subsequent years:
None
(5)(a) Identify any affected regulated entities not listed in (3)(a) or (4)(a):
None
(b) Estimate the following for each regulated entity identified in (5)(a):
1. Expenditures:
For the first year:
None
For subsequent years:
None
2. Revenues:
For the first year:
None
For subsequent years:
None
3. Cost Savings:
For the first year:
None
For subsequent years:
None
(6) Provide a narrative to explain the following for each entity identified in (3)(a), (4)(a), and (5)(a)
(a) Fiscal impact of this administrative regulation:
This administrative regulation does not establish specific fee amounts, which are contained in a separate administrative regulation; however, the revenue generated from dental licensure is approximately $600,000 every fiscal biennium and will not change as a result of this amendment.
(b) Methodology and resources used to reach this conclusion:
Historical budget performance.
(7) Explain, as it relates to the entities identified in (3)(a), (4)(a), and (5)(a):
(a) Whether this administrative regulation will have a "major economic impact", as defined by KRS 13A.010(14):
This administrative regulation does not directly have a major economic impact as it does not contain specific fee amounts. When administered in conjunction with the current fees established elsewhere, it impacts the dental health community by approximately $600,000 per year, primarily from licensure fees.
(b) The methodology and resources used to reach this conclusion:
Historical budget performance.
GENERAL GOVERNMENT CABINET
Kentucky Board of Dentistry
(Amendment)
201 KAR 8:533.Licensure of dentists.
Section 1.
General Licensure Requirements. An applicant desiring initial licensure in Kentucky as a general dentist shall:(1)
Understand, read, speak, and write the English language with a comprehension and performance level equal to at least the ninth grade of education, verified by testing as necessary;(2)
Submit a completed and signed Application for Dental Licensure or online equivalent with an attached applicant photo taken within the past six (6) months;(3)
Pay the fee required by 201 KAR 8:520;(4)
Not be subject to disciplinary action pursuant to KRS Chapter 313 that would prevent licensure;(5)
Complete and pass the board's jurisprudence exam;(6)
Hold an active certification in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) or a more comprehensive program which meets or exceeds the American Heart Association Guidelines for CPR and ECC;(7)
Submit to a nationwide state and federal criminal background check by fingerprint through the Department of Kentucky State Police;(8)
Provide verification of any license to practice dentistry held previously or currently in any state or other licensing jurisdiction;(9)
Hold a Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry (DMD) or Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree from a dental school program accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA);(10)
Successfully complete the National Board Dental Examination (NBDE) Part I and Part II or the Integrated National Board Dental Examination (INBDE), conducted by the Joint Commission on National Dental Examinations (JCNDE);(11)
Provide a written explanation for any positive returns on a query of the National Practitioner Data Bank; and(12)
Complete all additional requirements for one (1) of the following:(a)
Licensure by clinical examination;(b)
Licensure by credentials; or(c)
Licensure by foreign training.Section 2.
Requirements for Licensure by Clinical Examination.(1)
An individual desiring initial licensure in Kentucky as a general dentist by clinical examination shall:(a)
Complete all requirements in Section 1 of this administrative regulation; and(b)
Successfully complete all components of one (1) of the following clinical examinations within the five (5) years preceding the filing of the application:1.
The dental examination of the American Board of Dental Examiners (ADEX) or its predecessor agencies.;2.
The dental examination of the Central Regional Dental Testing Service (CRDTS) or its predecessor agencies; or3.
The Dental Licensure Objective Structured Clinical Examination (DLOSCE) of the JCNDE.(2)
An individual applying more than two (2) years after graduating with a DDS or DMD, shall:(a)
Hold a license to practice dentistry in good standing in another state or other U.S. licensing jurisdiction; or(b)
Complete a continuing education plan approved by the board.(3)
An applicant who has taken a clinical examination three (3) times and failed to achieve a passing score shall complete a remediation plan approved by the board.Section 3.
Requirements for Licensure by Credentials. An individual desiring initial licensure in Kentucky as a general dentist by credentials shall:(1)
Complete all requirements in Section 1 of this administrative regulation;(2)
Successfully complete a state, regional, or national clinical examination used to determine clinical competency in dentistry in another state or other U.S. licensing jurisdiction; and(3)
Be licensed and actively practicing dentistry in another state or other U.S. licensing jurisdiction for at least five (5) of the six (6) years preceding the filing of the application.Section 4.
Requirements for Licensure by International Training.(1)
An individual desiring initial licensure in Kentucky as a dentist who is a graduate of a non-CODA accredited dental school program shall:(a)
Complete all requirements in Section 1 of this administrative regulation, except for subsection (9);(b)
Pass the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) administered by the Educational Testing Service with a score of 650 on the paper-based test (PBT) or a score of 116 on the internet-based test (iBT), if English is not the applicant's primary language;(c)
Successfully complete two (2) years of postgraduate training in a CODA accredited advanced dental education program;(d)
Submit a letter of satisfactory program completion from the program director of each postgraduate training site; and(e)
Successfully complete a clinical examination required by Section 2(1)(b) of this administrative regulation within five (5) years preceding the filing of the application.(2)
An individual applying for dental licensure more than two (2) years after completing a CODA accredited advanced dental education program shall:(a)
Hold a license to practice dentistry in good standing in another state or other U.S. licensing jurisdiction; or(b)
Complete a continuing education plan approved by the board.(3)
Qualified individuals applying for dental licensure under this section who have completed a two-year Advanced Education in General Dentistry Program (AEGD), General Practice Residency (GPR), or other CODA accredited advanced dental education program in general dentistry shall be issued a general dentist license and shall not practice outside the scope of general dentistry.(4)
Qualified individuals applying for dental licensure under this section who have completed a CODA accredited advanced dental education program in a dental specialty shall be issued a dental specialist license and shall not practice as a general dentist or in any other capacity outside the scope of their specialty except as provided for in KRS 313.035(3).Section 5.
Requirements for Student Limited Licensure.(1)
An individual desiring limited licensure in Kentucky as a student shall:(a)
Complete all requirements in Section 1 of this administrative regulation, except for subsections (9) and (10);(b)
Submit a letter from the dean or program director of a postgraduate, residency, or fellowship program in Kentucky stating that the applicant has been accepted into the program and the expected date of completion;(c)
Submit a signed Statement Regarding Student Licensure Limitations; and(d)
Submit an official final transcript of the applicant's dental coursework with the degree posted.(2)
A student limited license holder shall only practice dentistry in conjunction with programs of the dental school where the individual is a student and shall only provide professional services to patients of these programs.(3)
A student limited license may be renewed in accordance with Section 10 of this administrative regulation, but shall automatically expire if the student graduates from or exits the program.(4)
A program enrolling a student limited license holder shall notify the board in writing of the date the student graduates from or exits the program.(5)
Nothing in this section shall prohibit:(a)
A student from performing a dental procedure under the direct supervision of a competent instructor within the dental school, college, or department of a university or private practice facility approved by the board. The board may authorize a student to practice dentistry within a state or municipal institution, public school, board of health, public clinic, or charitable entity. A fee shall not be accepted by the student beyond the expenses covered by a stipend;(b)
A student limited license holder from working under the general supervision of a licensed dentist within the confines of the postgraduate training program; and(c)
A volunteer health practitioner from providing services under KRS 39A.350-39A.366.Section 6.
Requirements for Faculty Limited Licensure.(1)
An individual desiring limited licensure in Kentucky as a faculty member shall:(a)
Complete all requirements in Section 1 of this administrative regulation with the exception of subsections (9) and (10);(b)
Submit a letter from the dean or program director of a Kentucky dental school stating that the applicant has received a faculty appointment;(c)
Submit a signed Statement Regarding Faculty Licensure Limitations; and(d)
Submit an official final transcript of the applicant's dental coursework with the degree posted.(2)
A faculty limited license holder shall only practice dentistry in conjunction with programs of the dental school where the individual is a faculty member and shall only provide professional services to patients of these programs.(3)
A faculty limited license may be renewed in accordance with Section 10 of this administrative regulation, but shall automatically expire if the licensee leaves their faculty position.(4)
A program employing a faculty limited license holder shall notify the board in writing of the date the licensee leaves his or her faculty position.Section 7.
Requirements for Charitable Limited Dental Licensure.(1)
An individual desiring limited licensure in Kentucky to provide charitable dental services shall:(a)
Understand, read, speak, and write the English language with a comprehension and performance level equal to at least the ninth grade of education, verified by testing as necessary;(b)
Submit a completed and signed Application for Charitable Limited Licensure with an attached applicant photo taken within the past six (6) months;(c)
Pay the fee required by 201 KAR 8:520;(d)
Not be subject to disciplinary action pursuant to KRS Chapter 313 that would prevent licensure;(e)
Hold a license to practice dentistry in good standing in another state or other U.S. licensing jurisdiction; and(f)
Provide a written explanation for any positive returns on a query of the National Practitioner Data Bank.(2)
A charitable limited dental license holder shall:(a)
Work only with charitable entities registered with the Cabinet for Health and Family Services that have met the requirements of KRS 313.254 and 201 KAR 8:581;(b)
Only perform procedures allowed by KRS 313.254(4) and (5) which shall be completed within the duration of the charitable event;(c)
Not prescribe any medications while practicing in Kentucky;(d)
Be eligible for the provisions of medical malpractice insurance procured under KRS 304.40-075; and(e)
Perform these duties without expectation of compensation or charge to the individual, and without payment or reimbursement by any governmental agency or insurer.Section 8.
Requirements for Specialty Licensure. An individual desiring initial licensure as a dental specialist in Kentucky as defined by KRS 313.010(9) shall:(1)
Submit a completed and signed Application for Specialty Dental Licensure or online equivalent with an attached applicant photo taken within the past six (6) months;(2)
Pay the fee required by 201 KAR 8:520;(3)
Hold an active Kentucky license to practice general dentistry prior to being issued a specialty license except as provided for in Section 4(4) of this administrative regulation; and(4)
Successfully complete a CODA accredited advanced dental education specialty program after graduating from a dental school.Section 9.
Continuing Education Requirements.(1)
A Kentucky licensed dentist shall complete thirty (30) hours of continuing education during the two (2) year licensure period defined by KRS 313.030(2), except in the following cases:(a)
A licensee who was issued a new or reinstated license in the second year of the current biennial license period shall only complete one-half the required hours for that period;(b)
A licensee who graduated in the first year of the current biennial license period shall only complete one-half the required hours for that period;(c)
A licensee who graduated in the second year of the current biennial license period shall not be required to complete continuing education hours for that period;(d)
A charitable limited license holder shall not be required to complete continuing education hours;(e)
A licensee may be granted a medical hardship waiver or deferment if the request is submitted to and approved by the board; or(f)
A licensee may be granted a limited practice waiver as provided for in Section 10 of this administrative regulation.(2)
Acceptable continuing education content shall include:(a)
Competency in treating patients who are medically compromised or who experience medical emergencies during the course of dental treatment;(b)
Pharmaceutical products and proper use protocols of medications;(c)
Competence to diagnose oral pathology;(d)
Awareness of currently accepted methods of infection control;(e)
Basic medical and scientific subjects;(f)
Clinical and technological subjects;(g)
Patient management, safety, and oral healthcare;(h)
Mass casualty or mass immunization situations;(i)
Clinical dentistry performed on a charitable or volunteer basis;(j)
Business operations and best practices; and(k)
Dental association or society business meetings.(3)
The thirty (30) hours of continuing education shall include:(a)
A minimum of ten (10) hours taken in a live interactive presentation format;(b)
A maximum of ten (10) hours that meet the requirements of subsection (2)(i) - (k) of this section; and(c)
A minimum of three (3) hours in the use of the Kentucky All Schedule Prescription Electronic Reporting System (KASPER), pain management, or addiction disorders.(d)
A minimum of one-half (1/2) hour in Pediatric Abusive Head Trauma (PAHT) or Child Abuse and Neglect (CAN).(4)
Dentists who hold a board-issued sedation permit shall also meet the continuing education requirements of 201 KAR 8:550, Section 8.(5)
All continuing education hours shall be documented by a certificate of completion or attendance bearing:(a)
A signature or other verification of the provider;(b)
The name of the licensee in attendance;(c)
The title of the course or meeting attended or completed;(d)
The date of attendance or completion;(e)
The number of hours earned; and(f)
Evidence of the method of delivery if the course was taken in a live interactive presentation format.(6)
The licensee shall be responsible for obtaining the qualifying documentation of continuing education from the provider or sponsoring organization and to retain those documents for a minimum of five (5) years.(7)
During the license renewal process, licensees shall attest to their compliance with the requirements of this section.(8)
Licensees shall be subject to audit of their compliance with the requirements of this section.Section 10.
Limited Practice Continuing Education Waivers(1)
A licensee who has practiced in Kentucky for at least twenty (20) years and desires to continue practicing only in a relief or emergency capacity may receive a limited practice waiver of their general continuing education requirements if the request is submitted to and approved by the board.(2)
A licensee who has been granted a limited practice waiver shall:(a)
Not be required to complete continuing education hours if practicing for not more than thirty (30) days in a calendar year;(b)
Only complete one-half the continuing education hours if practicing more than thirty (30) days but not more than ninety (90) days in a calendar year; or(c)
Complete the full thirty (30) hours of continuing education if practicing for more than ninety days in a calendar year.(3)
A limited practice waiver shall:(a)
be issued for a single two-year cycle per licensee and may not be repeated; and(b)
Apply to general continuing education requirements only. Licensees shall still be required to complete all required hours for CPR certification and sedation permits beyond general licensure.Section 11.
Renewal of a Dental License.(1)
All dental licenses issued by the board shall expire on December 31 of odd-numbered years and shall be renewed to remain active. A licensee desiring renewal of an active general, specialty, student limited, or faculty limited dental license shall:(a)
Submit a completed and signed Application for Renewal of Dental Licensure or online equivalent;(b)
Pay the fee required by 201 KAR 8:520;(c)
Maintain an active certification in CPR or a more comprehensive program that meets or exceeds the American Heart Association Guidelines for CPR and ECC; and(d)
Meet the continuing education requirements in Section 9 of this administrative regulation.(2)
A licensee who has not actively practiced dentistry in the two (2) years preceding the filing of the renewal application shall complete a continuing education plan approved by the board prior to resuming the active practice of dentistry.(3)
A licensee desiring renewal of a charitable limited dental license shall repeat the initial licensure process required by Section 7 of this administrative regulation.Section 12.
Retirement of a Dental License.(1)
A licensee desiring to no longer hold an active dental license in Kentucky shall submit a completed and signed Retirement of License Form or online equivalent.(2)
Upon receipt of this form, the board shall send written confirmation of retirement to the address provided.(3)
A licensee shall not retire a license that has pending disciplinary action against it.(4)
A license that is not properly retired or renewed shall be considered expired for reinstatement purposes.Section 13.
Reinstatement of a Dental License.(1)
A former licensee desiring reinstatement of an expired or properly retired dental license in Kentucky shall:(a)
Submit a completed and signed Application to Reinstate Dental or Dental Hygiene Licensure or online equivalent with an attached applicant photo taken within the past six (6) months;(b)
Pay the fee required by 201 KAR 8:520;(c)
Hold an active certification in CPR or a more comprehensive program that meets or exceeds the American Heart Association Guidelines for CPR and ECC;(d)
Provide verification of any license to practice dentistry obtained in any state or other licensing jurisdiction since the applicant was first licensed in Kentucky;(e)
Submit to a nationwide state and federal criminal background check by fingerprint through the Department of Kentucky State Police; and(f)
Provide a written explanation for any positive returns on a query of the National Practitioner Data Bank.(2)
An applicant who has not actively practiced dentistry in the two (2) years preceding the filing of the reinstatement application shall complete a continuing education plan approved by the board prior to resuming the active practice of dentistry.(3)
A former licensee who applies to reinstate an expired license that was not properly retired shall be subject to:(a)
The expired license reinstatement penalties in 201 KAR 8:520 if applying less than two (2) years from when the license was last active; or(b)
The same reinstatement fees as a properly retired license if applying more than two (2) years from when the license was last active.Section 14.
Verification of Licensure. An individual desiring an official verification of a dental license held currently or previously in Kentucky shall:(1)
Submit a completed and signed Verification of Licensure or Registration Form or online equivalent; and(2)
Pay the fee required by 201 KAR 8:520.Section 15.
Issuance of Initial Licensure. Upon an applicant's completion of all requirements for dental licensure within six (6) months of the date the application was received, the board shall:(1)
Issue a license in sequential numerical order; or(2)
Deny licensure due to a violation of KRS Chapter 313 or 201 KAR Chapter 8.Section 16.
Incorporation by Reference.(1)
The following material is incorporated by reference:(a)
"Application for Charitable Limited Licensure", January 2024;(b)
"Application for Dental Licensure", January 2024;(c)
"Application for Renewal of Dental Licensure", January 2024;(d)
"Application for Specialty Dental Licensure", January 2024;(e)
"Application to Reinstate Dental or Dental Hygiene Licensure", January 2024;(f)
"Retirement of License Form", January 2024;(g)
"Statement Regarding Faculty Licensure Limitations", January 2024;(h)
"Statement Regarding Student Licensure Limitations", January 2024;(i)
"Verification of Licensure or Registration Form", January 2024; and(j)
"2020 American Heart Association Guidelines for CPR and ECC", 2020.(2)
This material may be inspected, copied, or obtained, subject to applicable copyright law, at the Kentucky Board of Dentistry, 312 Whittington Parkway, Suite 101, Louisville, Kentucky 40222, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. through 4:30 p.m. This material is also available on the board's website at http://dentistry.ky.gov.JEFFREY ALLEN, Executive Director
APPROVED BY AGENCY: March 12, 2026
FILED WITH LRC: March 13, 2026 at 11:30 a.m.
PUBLIC HEARING AND COMMENT PERIOD: A public hearing on this administrative regulation shall be held on May 21, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. Eastern Time at the Kentucky Board of Dentistry, 312 Whittington Parkway, Suite 101, Louisville, Kentucky 40222. Individuals interested in being heard at this hearing shall notify this agency in writing by five workdays prior to the hearing, of their intent to attend. If no notification of intent to attend the hearing was received by that date, the hearing may be cancelled. A transcript of the public hearing will not be made unless a written request for a transcript is made. If you do not wish to be heard at the public hearing, you may submit written comments on the proposed administrative regulation. Written comments shall be accepted through May 31, 2025. Send written notification of intent to be heard at the public hearing or written comments on the proposed administrative regulation to the contact person below.
CONTACT PERSON: Jeff Allen, Executive Director, Kentucky Board of Dentistry, 312 Whittington Parkway, Suite 101, Louisville, Kentucky 40222, phone (502) 429-7280, fax (502) 429-7282, email jeffrey.allen@ky.gov.
REGULATORY IMPACT ANALYSIS AND TIERING STATEMENT
Contact Person:
Jeffrey Allen
Subject Headings:
Boards & Commissions, Dentistry, Licensing
(1) Provide a brief summary of:
(a) What this administrative regulation does:
This administrative regulation establishes requirements to practice dentistry in Kentucky.
(b) The necessity of this administrative regulation:
KRS 313.021(1)(a) requires the board to exercise the administrative functions of the Commonwealth in the regulation of dentists.
(c) How this administrative regulation conforms to the content of the authorizing statutes:
This administrative regulation establishes the rules for obtaining a license to practice as a dentist in Kentucky.
(d) How this administrative regulation currently assists or will assist in the effective administration of the statutes:
This administrative regulation establishes requirements for being licensed to practice dentistry in conformity with its authorizing statute.
(2) If this is an amendment to an existing administrative regulation, provide a brief summary of:
(a) How the amendment will change this existing administrative regulation:
This amendment: Removes notary requirements for applications to facilitate online applications. Updates references to clinical exam organizations to address recent mergers. Allows foreign-trained dentists to be licensed as specialists. Creates a "limited practice waiver" for semi-retired licensees to apply for a reduction in their continuing education requirements. Requires 0.5 hours of continuing education in Pediatric Head Trauma/Child Abuse every 2 years.
(b) The necessity of the amendment to this administrative regulation:
The amendment makes necessary updates to the licensure process and creates opportunities to expand access to care without sacrificing public protection.
(c) How the amendment conforms to the content of the authorizing statutes:
This amendment maintains established requirements for being licensed to practice dentistry in conformity with its authorizing statute.
(d) How the amendment will assist in the effective administration of the statutes:
The amendment makes necessary updates to the licensure process and creates opportunities to expand access to care without sacrificing public protection.
(3) Does this administrative regulation or amendment implement legislation from the previous five years?
No.
(4) List the type and number of individuals, businesses, organizations, or state and local governments affected by this administrative regulation:
This administrative regulation will primarily affect the approximately 3,000 licensed dentists in Kentucky as well as any new applicants for licensure and, indirectly, the patients of licensed dentists.
(5) Provide an analysis of how the entities identified in question (4) will be impacted by either the implementation of this administrative regulation, if new, or by the change, if it is an amendment, including:
(a) List the actions that each of the regulated entities identified in question (4) will have to take to comply with this administrative regulation or amendment:
Each individual impacted will be required to apply for or renew their licensure in accordance with applicable law and administrative regulations. The vast majority of those affected by the existing regulation will not be further affected by the amendment.
(b) In complying with this administrative regulation or amendment, how much will it cost each of the entities identified in question (4):
This administrative regulation does not specifically enumerate costs, which are already established in 201 KAR 8:520. Again, the vast majority of dentists will be unaffected.
(c) As a result of compliance, what benefits will accrue to the entities identified in question (4):
The administrative regulation will result in a healthier patient population and the avoidance of potentially costly violations of applicable law and administrative regulations by licensed dentists.
(6) Provide an estimate of how much it will cost the administrative body to implement this administrative regulation:
(a) Initially:
No additional cost.
(b) On a continuing basis:
No additional cost.
(7) What is the source of the funding to be used for the implementation and enforcement of this administrative regulation or this amendment:
Licensure fees are used to fund the implementation of this administrative regulation.
(8) Provide an assessment of whether an increase in fees or funding will be necessary to implement this administrative regulation, if new, or by the change if it is an amendment:
No increase in funds is needed for this amendment.
(9) State whether or not this administrative regulation establishes any fees or directly or indirectly increases any fees:
This administrative regulation does not impact existing fees, which are already established separately in 201 KAR 8:520.
(10) TIERING: Is tiering applied?
No; this administrative regulation impacts all similarly situated entities equally.
FISCAL IMPACT STATEMENT
(1) Identify each state statute, federal statute, or federal regulation that requires or authorizes the action taken by the administrative regulation:
This administrative regulation is authorized by KRS 313.021(1)(c) and KRS 313.040(1).
(2) State whether this administrative regulation is expressly authorized by an act of the General Assembly, and if so, identify the act:
This administrative regulation is expressly authorized by KRS 313.040(1).
(3)(a) Identify the promulgating agency and any other affected state units, parts, or divisions:
The Board of Dentistry is the promulgating agency.
(b) Estimate the following for each affected state unit, part, or division identified in (3)(a):
1. Expenditures:
For the first year:
There will be no additional administrative costs generated by this amendment.
For subsequent years:
There will be no additional administrative costs generated by this amendment.
2. Revenues:
For the first year:
This amendment does not alter the existing revenue generated by dental licensure, which is approximately $600,000 every fiscal biennium.
For subsequent years:
This amendment does not alter the existing revenue generated by dental licensure, which is approximately $600,000 every fiscal biennium.
3. Cost Savings:
For the first year:
None
For subsequent years:
None.
(4)(a) Identify affected local entities (for example: cities, counties, fire departments, school districts):
This amendment does not affect any local entities.
(b) Estimate the following for each affected local entity identified in (4)(a):
1. Expenditures:
For the first year:
None
For subsequent years:
None
2. Revenues:
For the first year:
None
For subsequent years:
None
3. Cost Savings:
For the first year:
None
For subsequent years:
None
(5)(a) Identify any affected regulated entities not listed in (3)(a) or (4)(a):
None
(b) Estimate the following for each regulated entity identified in (5)(a):
1. Expenditures:
For the first year:
None
For subsequent years:
None
2. Revenues:
For the first year:
None
For subsequent years:
None
3. Cost Savings:
For the first year:
None
For subsequent years:
None
(6) Provide a narrative to explain the following for each entity identified in (3)(a), (4)(a), and (5)(a)
(a) Fiscal impact of this administrative regulation:
This administrative regulation does not establish specific fee amounts, which are contained in a separate administrative regulation; however, the revenue generated from dental licensure is approximately $600,000 every fiscal biennium and will not change as a result of this amendment.
(b) Methodology and resources used to reach this conclusion:
Historical budget performance.
(7) Explain, as it relates to the entities identified in (3)(a), (4)(a), and (5)(a):
(a) Whether this administrative regulation will have a "major economic impact", as defined by KRS 13A.010(14):
This administrative regulation does not directly have a major economic impact as it does not contain specific fee amounts. When administered in conjunction with the current fees established elsewhere, it impacts the dental health community by approximately $600,000 per year, primarily from licensure fees.
(b) The methodology and resources used to reach this conclusion:
Historical budget performance.