Can A Canadian Dentist Work In The USA? My First-Hand Guide To Licensing, Visas, And Next Steps

If you told me five years ago that I’d be doing dentistry in the United States, I would have probably laughed and said, “No way! That’s just for Americans, isn’t it?” But here I am, writing as someone who’s gone through the challenges of getting a US dental license, filled out all the visa forms, and spent lots of time scratching my head during the process.

I started out in Canada, getting my DDS from a school that had CODA approval. I worked in Toronto for years and liked helping my patients there. But the thought of working in the US, with more jobs and new challenges, kept sticking in my brain. Maybe you’re at that point too—wondering if you could, or if it’s even possible, to be a dentist down south. If so, trust me, you’re not the only one thinking about it.

In this article, I’ll walk you through everything I’ve learned about what it actually takes for a Canadian dentist to work in the USA, what I did, what surprised me, and what you can expect if you try this road.

Understanding the Big Picture: Can Canadian Dentists Really Practice in the US?

Short answer: Yes, Canadian dentists can work in the USA—if you go through the right steps. When I started, I saw that the whole thing had two main parts: having the right education and getting the right work visa.

Here’s the deal. The US doesn’t just let anyone who studied dentistry somewhere else work right away. They want to know your training matches theirs, which makes sense. The good part is, if you got your dental degree from a Canadian school approved by CODA, the US already respects that a lot more than degrees from many other countries.

Then comes the “how do I live and work there legally” question. The best way for Canadians is the TN visa, thanks to the USMCA deal (used to be called NAFTA). More on that below.

You’ll need patience, energy, and a little money. But, with some effort and planning, the US is open to Canadians wanting to be dentists.

US Dental Licensure for Canadians: Two Major Pathways

When I looked into this, I learned there isn’t just one way for Canadians to get a US dental license. There are two main paths.

Pathway 1: Advanced Standing Programs

If you finished dental school at a place that the US doesn’t approve up front or your province isn’t on their list, then you might have to join an Advanced Standing Program (ASP) at a US school. This is a 2-to-3 year “catch-up” program where you’ll earn a DDS or DMD right in the US. It’s pricey (about $70,000–$100,000 or more a year) and takes a while, but it’s needed if you don’t meet the direct requirements.

I almost went this way at first, but after learning my degree was CODA-approved, I didn’t need it. Some friends from other countries did have to go through it though.

Pathway 2: Direct Licensure for CODA-Accredited Graduates

Here’s some great news for most Canadian dentists: If you went to one of Canada’s 10 schools that have CODA approval, the US sees your training as just as good as theirs. Most states accept it (but always check the exact state). You will still need to pass a couple US tests and fill out a bunch of paperwork, but you won’t have to go back to dental school.

That’s the route I took, and it saved me a lot of money and years.

What Every Canadian Dentist Needs for US Licensure

No matter what path you pick, you’ll have to tick off a few tasks. Here’s what I needed before they would give me a US dental license.

INBDE: The National Dental Board Exam Experience

The Integrated National Board Dental Examination (INBDE) is the main US written test now. It’s a mix of science basics and actual dental know-how—kind of like the big doctor test, but for dentists.

When I took the INBDE, I used study books from the American Dental Association (ADA) and did practice tests. Most people from good schools pass it the first time (about 85%+). If you’ve just finished school in Canada, you’re not at a disadvantage.

One tip: The test has lots of real-life cases, so you need to know how to think, not just memorize facts. Make sure your study methods match the test style.

Clinical Competency Exams: Real-World Skills Required

After passing the INBDE, the work wasn’t over. The US wants you to show your hands-on skills by taking a real-life test. I picked the ADEX (CDCA-WREB) exam since most states accept that one—always check the state you want.

You’ll do tasks on fake or real patients, like fillings and crowns, with exam people watching every little thing. It’s nerve-wracking but good—they want to see if you’re safe and able to work.

These tests cost $1,000 to $2,000 USD. If you need to travel, add money for hotels and flights.

State Jurisprudence Exams: The Legal Side

Every state wants proof you know their dental laws and rules. These are often online or written tests with multiple choices. I just used the info sent by the Massachusetts Board of Dentistry to study.

Compared to the hands-on test, this part was easy, but still, you have to know the rules about pain control, prescriptions, and patient privacy.

Other Basics: Background Checks & English Proficiency

Background checks and fingerprinting are needed for all healthcare workers in the US. It’s the usual process but can take a while, especially if you’ve lived in a lot of different places. Usually, Canadian grads don’t need to do English tests, unless your schooling was in French or another language.

Keep all your papers neat and close by. One missing document can stall you for months.

Immigration Pathways: Getting the Right Visa

Now, about the other big thing—immigration. Even if you pass all your tests, you can’t work in the USA unless you have the right visa. Here’s what happened to me.

My TN Visa Experience

The TN visa for Canadians under USMCA is a lifesaver. Dentist is right there in the list of eligible jobs. Here’s what my own TN process was like:

Job Offer: You need a clear, official job offer from a US dental office. It has to say what you’ll do and your start date.
Documents: I brought my Canadian passport, signed job offer letter, dental degree, and proof of US licensure (or at least that I’d passed the tests).
Where to Apply: I went to a land border crossing (lots of Canadian airports with pre-flight US check-in do this too). They checked my papers and stamped approval on the spot.
Cost and Time: I paid about $50 and left with a three-year visa (which you can renew over and over).

A big plus: No lottery, no waiting, and you can get it done in a day if you have all the paperwork.

H1B and Other Visas: When You Need Alternatives

Some clinics like to do the H1B visa—for example, if you’re teaching, doing research, or going after a green card. It’s more complicated: employers have to run an ad for the job, then there’s a lottery. Getting one isn’t easy (about a 15% chance) and it takes a few months.

You can try for other visas (like EB-2 Green Card, or the O-1 if you’ve done something really impressive like lots of research), but those aren’t super common for new dentists just starting out.

For me, TN worked out, but some friends who wanted to move permanently started on H1B or green cards while they worked.

State-Specific Requirements: Why Details Matter More Than You Think

One thing I learned quickly: don’t guess about state dental boards. Every board has its own set of rules.

Take California—it has its own special clinical test. New York or Massachusetts, though, accepts bigger tests like ADEX, and those are usually easier for Canadians.

Some states want you to do extra training, like a one-year General Practice Residency (GPR) or Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD). Others might want references or interviews.

Best tip: as soon as you know your target state, go to that state’s official dental board website and get their checklist. Missing even one thing can add months to your wait.

Step-by-Step: My Journey from Dream to US Dentist

Let me break down, step by step, how I (and some colleagues) made it happen.

Phase 1: Preparation, Research, and Exams

First, I picked my favorite states—Massachusetts, New York, and Illinois—and checked what they wanted. I called their offices to ask questions. I started getting ready for the INBDE while getting papers together (like school transcripts).

After signing up for the INBDE, I studied using review books and a schedule. After I passed, I signed up for the clinical test (ADEX), which needed a new application, fees, and more fingerprinting. Then I got ready and passed the state law exam.

Phase 2: Application and Landing a Job

Once I finished all my tests, I put together my licensing application: copies of degrees, test scores, background checks, and photos. I sent them in and waited a few weeks. Meanwhile, I started looking for jobs in the US and went to interviews.

Some clinics were unsure about my Canadian background, but lots were used to these cases. I found a supportive place in Boston with a good, clear job offer—key for my TN visa.

Phase 3: Visa Process and State Registration

With my job offer and US license, I packed all my papers and drove to the border. The officer asked the usual questions, checked my files, took my fingerprints, and gave me a TN visa right there. Walking out knowing I could work in the US felt amazing.

After that, I finished state registrations, like getting my DEA number (for prescriptions) and malpractice insurance—all needed before I could see anyone as a patient.

Challenges, Costs, and Common Pitfalls: What I Wish I Knew Sooner

I can’t say it was easy all the way. Here are a few bumps I hit:

Costs Add Up Fast: Tests, fees, fingerprinting, travel, and study courses all add up. I spent about $4,000 (not counting the cost of moving).
State Boards Are SLOW: Some states take months just to look over forms. Papers get lost or “are missing.” Always have backup copies.
Visa Paperwork Must Be Perfect: One small mistake or outdated paper can ruin things.
Jobs Aren’t Always Easy to Find: Big cities are popular and busy. Some places want local US experience, so you might have to show off your hands-on skills.
Insurance and Registration: Most clinics won’t even let you shadow a dentist unless you have all your papers, insurance, and registration done.

One thing that really helped? Joining local dentist groups and Canadian dentist networks in the US. People shared tips and job leads I wouldn’t have found on my own.

Benefits and Opportunities: Why Practice in the USA?

The road is long, but there’s lots to gain. Since moving, I’ve seen:

Better Pay: Most US dentist incomes are higher than in Canada, depending on what you do and where you work.
More Options: From research to running your own office, there are more choices.
New Tools and Tech: US clinics bring in new stuff quicker—like digital scanning, new materials, or services you can get from a digital dental lab.
Professional Growth: The challenge made me better and kept me learning.
Specialization: Doing board-approved specialist training can be smoother in some US states than in Canada.

I also got to work with dental labs across North America and overseas. For example, I worked with a china dental lab for some of my restorative work, which gave me good experience with different types of crowns and bridges.

Pay and opportunity do depend on the cost of living where you go—not all American cities are easy on the wallet, and big places like New York or San Francisco are expensive.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is my Canadian dental degree valid in the USA?

If it’s from a CODA-approved Canadian school, yes—almost all states accept it. Always check the rules for your chosen state.

How long does it take from start to finish?

Usually, expect about 12–18 months from first test prep to your US practice start, though some get there a little faster.

Do I need to do dental school again in the US?

Not if you have a CODA-approved degree. If not, you might need an Advanced Standing Program.

What’s the easiest visa for Canadian dentists?

The TN visa—easy, cheap, and you can keep renewing it.

Can I work as a dental specialist in the US?

Yes, but know that some states need extra proofs or specialist exam results. Specialties like prosthodontics or partnerships with a top dental ceramics lab can help your practice.

Conclusion: Is This the Right Move for You?

So, can a Canadian dentist work in the USA? For sure—I’m proof it’s possible. Is it simple? Not always. You’ll get stuck with red tape, costs, and competition. There will be a roller coast of tests, paperwork, and state rules.

But if you’re serious and plan carefully, you can open up a really satisfying career. I’ve grown, learned, and met people I never would have if I’d stayed in one place.

My advice? Start with research, set aside some spare time and money, and don’t be afraid to ask for help—from friends, dental boards, or even from a trusted crown and bridge lab when you’re in practice.

I hope sharing my journey helps you see the steps more clearly. If you’re still not sure, think about your own big goals. No one else can choose for you—but with some planning, your next career move could be your best yet.

If you want more info on becoming a US dentist or want to know about how new dental labs and tools are changing US dentistry, feel free to reach out or check out more guides on this site. You’re not alone, and if you keep at it, you’ll get there—just like I did.

Can a Canadian Dentist Work in the USA? My First-Hand Guide to Licensing, Visas, and Next Steps

Table of Contents

Introduction: Why I Chose to Pursue Dentistry in the USA

Understanding the Big Picture: Can Canadian Dentists Really Practice in the US?