All applicants must be certified by the National Dental Examining Board of Canada (NDEB) before applying to BCCOHP.

Two NDEB Pathways:

• Equivalency Process – for graduates of non-accredited international dental programs

• Certification Exam – for graduates of CDAC-accredited dental schools (Canada, U.S., Australia, New Zealand, Ireland)

For full details on the NDEB process, visit NDEB.

Once certified by NDEB, you must apply to BCCOHP for licensure as a dentist in BC.

Required Documents:

• NDEB Certificate

• Official dental degree and transcripts

• Government-issued photo ID

• Certificate(s) of Standing from any previous dental regulatory authority

• Language proficiency test scores (if applicable)

Apply via BCCOHP’s application portal

Licensing Fees: Varies; check the BCCOHP fee schedule

A mandatory Criminal Record Check must be completed through the BC Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General.

Notes:

• Initiated by BCCOHP during application

• Checks for offenses relevant to working with vulnerable populations

All applicants are required to complete an online Jurisprudence Education Module, which covers:

• BC’s Health Professions Act and BCCOHP bylaws

• Ethical conduct and patient care expectations

• Dentist responsibilities under provincial legislation

Access is granted after application submission.

BC law requires dentists to carry professional liability insurance to legally practice.

Insurance Options:

• Purchase a policy through the Canadian Dental Protective Association (CDPA) or Canadian Dental Association (CDA)

• Minimum required coverage: $2 million per occurrence

Proof of insurance must be submitted before your license can be issued.

Once all documents, the jurisprudence module, and insurance are verified, BCCOHP will issue your license to practice as a dentist in British Columbia.

You’ll receive your BCCOHP registration number and a license certificate authorizing you to begin practicing.