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Special Bridge / Universal RecognitionVERIFIED · May 2026

Michigan Dental Licensure
for International Dentists

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

Pathway
Special Bridge / Universal Recognition
Scope of practice
Michigan DDS → eligible for most US state licenses
Exams required
Standard MI licensure exams after DDS conferral
What qualifies you

University of Michigan ITDP (28-month program) → earns a DDS degree, which then qualifies the applicant for the standard Michigan licensure track.

What the Michigan board actually said

MI Bureau of Professional Licensing (May 2026): "Our office is not able to advise on what license you are eligible for." Standard CODA-accredited pre-doctoral degree is required for full licensure; UM ITDP results in such a degree. Apply through ADEA CAAPID.

Source: MI Bureau of Professional Licensing (BPLHelp@michigan.gov), 2026-05-15

This page was compiled from a direct email exchange with the Michigan 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 →

Find Michigan-eligible residency programs that match your profile

Run your INBDE score, visa status, and clinical experience through our matcher — see only the Michigan-route programs you actually qualify for.

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Other states with this pathway
Arizona →Maine →Florida →

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