Dentist and Dental Hygienist (DDH) Compact

Washington joined the Dentist and Dental Hygienist (DDH) Compact when it adopted legislation in 2023 (RCW 18.33). The purpose of the compact is to:

• Facilitate the interstate practice of dentistry and dental hygiene.
• Improve public access to dentistry and dental hygiene by allowing providers in participating states to practice in member states where they are not licensed.  

The compact was enacted after the 7^th state adopted the legislation in April 2024. Currently, Washington is among 12 states that have passed the DDH Compact legislation. The other DDH Compact member states include:

1. Arkansas
2. Colorado
3. Iowa
4. Kansas
5. Maine
6. Minnesota
7. Nebraska
8. Ohio
9. Tennessee
10. Virginia
11. Wisconsin

Since getting the required number of participating states, the DDH Compact Commission adopted bylaws. The DDH Compact Commission also established the Executive Committee, Rules Committee, and Finance Committee. Each committee is currently working on critical items, from identifying and selecting compact software to rulemaking. This will help move the DDH Compact from being enacted to issuing compact privileges.

For individuals interested in learning more about the DDH Compact, please explore the resources page on the DDH website.

If you are interested in attending compact meetings, visit the meetings page on the DDH Compact website. Select the specific commission or committee you would like to attend to learn how to register. Meetings are held virtually.

Do you want to submit a written public comment or make an oral public comment at an upcoming meeting? Email the DDH Compact at dentalcompact@csg.org and include “Public Comment Request” in the subject line. Attendees need to make requests at least 48 hours in advance of the meeting. Please identify in your request which agenda item you are requesting to speak on.