DentalMatch
Log InGet Started
CODA Degree Required (Closed)VERIFIED · May 2026

South Carolina Dental Licensure
for International Dentists

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

Pathway
CODA Degree Required (Closed)
Scope of practice
Not available to IDGs via residency
Exams required
Not available to IDGs without a CODA pre-doctoral degree
What qualifies you

Per SC §40-15-140: CODA-accredited program required. Residency does NOT substitute.

What the South Carolina board actually said

SC Board of Dentistry (May 2026): "The South Carolina Board of Dentistry can only license persons to practice General Dentist and or dental hygiene who has graduated from a program accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation."

Source: SC Board of Dentistry (DENHelp@llr.sc.gov), 2026-05-13

What does NOT qualify in South Carolina
  • AEGD 1 — SC requires a CODA pre-doctoral DDS/DMD (per §40-15-140).
  • AEGD 2 — SC requires a CODA pre-doctoral DDS/DMD (per §40-15-140).
  • GPR 1 — SC requires a CODA pre-doctoral DDS/DMD (per §40-15-140).
  • GPR 2 — SC requires a CODA pre-doctoral DDS/DMD (per §40-15-140).
  • ORTHO — SC requires a CODA pre-doctoral DDS/DMD (per §40-15-140).
  • PERIO — SC requires a CODA pre-doctoral DDS/DMD (per §40-15-140).
This page was compiled from a direct email exchange with the South Carolina 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 South Carolina-eligible residency programs that match your profile

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

Find my programs →Ask Dr. Dev
Other states with this pathway
Massachusetts →Missouri →New Jersey →Nevada →Montana →Hawaii →

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