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Special Bridge / Universal RecognitionVERIFIED · May 2026

Arizona Dental Licensure
for International Dentists

How an international dentist (IDG) gets licensed to practice in Arizona without a US DDS or DMD — sourced from a direct reply from the Arizona dental board.

Pathway
Special Bridge / Universal Recognition
Scope of practice
Full Arizona license via universal recognition
Exams required
Established through the source state's license (no new clinical exam)
What qualifies you

Universal Recognition only. Applicant must (a) hold a full, active dental license in another US state for ≥ 1 year and (b) provide proof of Arizona residency.

What the Arizona board actually said

Arizona State Board of Dental Examiners (May 2026, Nancy Elia): "Arizona offers one licensing pathway for foreign-trained applicants through universal recognition. To qualify... Hold a full, active license in another U.S. state for at least one year. Provide proof of Arizona residency." Foreign training alone cannot grant an AZ license — first earn a license in NY/TX/LA/VA/etc., then transfer after 1 year of active practice.

Source: Arizona State Board of Dental Examiners (nancy.elia@dentalboard.az.gov), 2026-05-13

This page was compiled from a direct email exchange with the Arizona dental board between May 2026. The board's exact reply is quoted above. Rules change — always reconfirm with the board before applying. See all 50 states →

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Other states with this pathway
Maine →Florida →Michigan →

Compiled from direct email correspondence with the Arizona dental board (May 2026 cycle). Always confirm current requirements with the board before submitting an application.