Question 1

What is the INBDE and who needs to take it?

Accepted Answer

The INBDE (Integrated National Board Dental Examination) is a comprehensive written examination administered by the Joint Commission on National Dental Examinations (JCNDE) in the United States. It is required for all dental students and graduates — including international dentists — who want to pursue dental licensure in the USA. It tests integrated biomedical and clinical dental knowledge.

Question 2

How can an international dentist get a dental licence in the United States?

Accepted Answer

International dentists pursue US dental licensure by passing the INBDE, enrolling in and completing an Advanced Standing (International Dentist) DDS or DMD program at a CODA-accredited dental school, passing a state clinical licensing examination, and applying to the state dental board for licensure. Requirements vary by state.

Question 3

What is an Advanced Standing Dental Program (IDP) for international dentists?

Accepted Answer

An Advanced Standing Program or International Dentist Program (IDP) is a 2–3 year DDS or DMD program at a CODA-accredited US dental school designed for internationally trained dentists. After completing the INBDE and gaining admission to an IDP, dentists complete clinical training and earn a US dental degree, which is required for state licensure in most states.

Question 4

What is a DENTPIN and how do I get one?

Accepted Answer

A DENTPIN (Dental Personal Identification Number) is a unique identifier required to register for JCNDE examinations including the INBDE. It is obtained by registering on the American Dental Association (ADA) website at no charge. You must obtain your DENTPIN before applying for the INBDE.

Question 5

What English language score is required for INBDE and US dental programs?

Accepted Answer

TOEFL iBT with a minimum of 90–100 overall is widely required by US dental schools for Advanced Standing programs. IELTS Academic (minimum 7.0) is accepted by some universities. Requirements vary by dental school and state board — always check with your target dental school and the state dental board where you intend to practise.

Question 6

What documents are required for the INBDE application?

Accepted Answer

Documents required include a valid passport, dental degree certificate, academic transcripts, professional registration/licence from your home country, certificate of good standing, credential evaluation (ECE course-by-course, if required by state board), English language test results, police clearance/background check, CV/resume, and DENTPIN registration.

Question 7

How much does INBDE and US dental licensure cost for international dentists?

Accepted Answer

The INBDE exam fee is USD 810. Credential evaluation (ECE) costs approximately USD 200–350. The Advanced Standing DDS/DMD program is the primary cost at USD 80,000–150,000+ in tuition. State clinical examination fees are approximately USD 1,000–2,500. State dental board licensure is approximately USD 200–500. The total pathway is a significant financial investment.

Question 8

How long does it take to get a US dental licence as an international dentist?

Accepted Answer

The INBDE exam preparation and registration takes 1–3 months. After passing the INBDE, gaining admission to and completing the Advanced Standing DDS/DMD program takes 2–3 years. State clinical examination and licensure processing takes a further 3–6 months. The full pathway to a US dental licence typically takes 3–5 years.

Question 9

Does passing the INBDE alone allow me to practise dentistry in the USA?

Accepted Answer

No. Passing the INBDE alone is not sufficient for US dental licensure. The INBDE is a prerequisite for registration in most Advanced Standing programs, but dentists also need to complete a CODA-accredited dental program (IDP), pass a state clinical examination, and obtain a dental licence from the state dental board where they intend to practise.

Question 10

What does MCDI's INBDE documentation assistance include?

Accepted Answer

MCDI's INBDE documentation assistance covers eligibility review, preparation and checking of all required documents for the INBDE application, DENTPIN guidance, and support with the documentation needed for Advanced Standing program applications. MCDI assists with documentation only — all exam and licensure decisions rest with the JCNDE and state dental boards.

Question 11

Can a BDS graduate from India take the INBDE and practise dentistry in the United States?

Accepted Answer

Yes. BDS graduates from India are eligible to register for the INBDE. After passing the INBDE, Indian BDS graduates typically need to gain admission to and complete a CODA-accredited Advanced Standing (International Dentist) DDS or DMD program at a US dental school before applying for state dental licensure. The INBDE can be taken before or during the Advanced Standing program application process. MCDI assists with documentation for the INBDE application and Advanced Standing program applications.