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Supporting quality dental care through the evaluation of competence.

Supporting quality dental care through the evaluation of competence.

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The National Dental Examining Board of Canada (NDEB) is the organization responsible for establishing and maintaining a national standard of competence of dentists in Canada.

The NDEB develops and administers innovative, internationally-recognized examinations that are valid and reliable. Each year, approximately 1000 dentists from Canada and around the world are certified through the NDEB’s examination processes.

How do I become a Licensed Dentist in Canada?

How do I become a Licensed Dentist in Canada?

There are different pathways to become a licensed dentist in Canada.

Providing FAIR, VALID,
and RELIABLE, evaluations of competence.

NEWS & ANNOUNCEMENTS

Frequently Asked Questions

Which pathway you follow will depend on if you want to be certified as a dentist or dental specialist and if you have graduated from and accredited or non-accredited dental program. Visit How to Become a Dentist in Canada and answer a few short questions to determine which pathway you should follow.
The length of time it takes to complete the Equivalency Process will vary depending on the individual. The first step is application and credential verification. If everything is submitted correctly the first time this takes approximately 18 weeks. Then there are three examinations to complete. How long it takes to complete the examinations depends on when a person can register for an examination and how many attempts it takes them to pass the examination.
The NDEB does not have residency requirements for participation in NDEB examinations.

VISIT RESOURCES FOR MORE INFORMATION

UPCOMING DATES

NDECC

Exam Date29 September - 27 November 2025 Registration Deadline28 July, 2025 21:00 ET Registration open date: 15 July, 2025 10:00 ET

Assessment of Fundamental Knowledge (AFK)

Exam Date11 August, 2025 Registration Deadline07 July, 2025 21:00 ET Registration is open Login to Register

Assessment of Clinical Judgement (ACJ)

Exam Date25 November, 2025 Registration Deadline15 October, 2025 21:00 ET Registration open date: 10 June, 2025 10:00 ET

Virtual OSCE

Exam Date12 November, 2025 Registration Deadline01 October, 2025 21:00 ET Registration open date: 25 June, 2025 10:00 ET