Dental License Status

Are you thinking about changing your dentist active license and are unsure whether you want an inactive or retired active license?

Here are a few questions to ask yourself.

1. Do I still want to practice with limitations in Washington state?

• YES - you want a retired active license. With a retired active license, you may practice under these conditions:
  • In emergent circumstances calling for immediate action.
  • In intermittent circumstances on a non-permanent basis.
  • You may not receive compensation for dental services provided. (See WAC 246-817-230: for more information.)
  • If you volunteer on a permanent basis – weekly, or monthly on a set schedule you will need to retain your active license.
• NO - you may want an inactive license.
  • The law says that you may not practice dentistry in Washington State while you hold an inactive license (RCW 18.32.185).

1. Do I want to continue taking continuing education to renew my license?

• YES - you want a retired active license.
  • Twenty-one hours of continuing education every three years is required.
• NO - you may want an inactive license.
  • Continuing education is only required when you choose to return your dentist license to active status.

1. How much do I want to spend on my license renewal?

• Retired active license renewal is $200.
• Inactive license renewal is $175.

1. Do I want to return to having an active license in the future?

• YES – both an inactive and retired active license can be returned to an active license.
• Please visit Dentist | Washington State Department of Health for information on how to return to an active license.