Dentist Registration Process – Alberta

This guide outlines the updated registration process for Internationally Educated Dentists (IEDs) seeking licensure in Alberta through the College of Dental Surgeons of Alberta (CDSA). It includes credential recognition, Alberta-specific licensure steps, and two newly introduced pathways aimed at increasing flexibility and support for internationally trained professionals.

Visit CDSA Website
Step 1: Obtain NDEB Certification

Before applying to CDSA, you must be certified by the National Dental Examining Board of Canada (NDEB).

Two pathways are available:

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

  • Certification Exam – for graduates of accredited programs in Canada, the U.S., Australia, New Zealand, and Ireland

For full details on the NDEB process, visit NDEB.

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Step 2: Apply to CDSA for Licensure

Once NDEB certification is complete, you can begin your Alberta licensure application.

Required Documents:

  • NDEB Certificate

  • Certified dental degree and official academic transcripts

  • Valid government-issued photo ID (e.g., passport)

  • Certificate(s) of Standing from every regulatory body where you’ve been licensed (issued within 8 weeks)

  • Language proficiency test results (if applicable)

Apply through the CDSA Application Portal


Fees:

  • Application Fee: $500 CAD

  • Registration Fee: $1,000 CAD

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Step 3: Complete the Alberta Ethics and Jurisprudence Exam

All applicants must complete this online exam covering:

  • Alberta’s Health Professions Act

  • CDSA Standards of Practice

  • Patient rights, informed consent, and ethics

  • Legal scope of practice in Alberta

Delivered online and must be completed before registration approval. To register, Click Here.

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Step 4: Professional Liability Insurance

All dentists in Alberta must carry professional liability insurance, which is included in your Annual Practice Permit Fee.

  • Fee: $2,100 CAD
    (Pro-rated after July 1)

No additional insurance purchase is required.

To learn more, Click here

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Step 5: Receive License and Begin Practicing

Once your documents are approved, you pass the jurisprudence exam, and fees are paid, CDSA will issue your certificate of registration. You are now legally authorized to practice dentistry in Alberta.

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Step 6: New Alternative Licensure Pathways in Alberta

Supportive Pathway Pilot Program (2025 Intake): 

For IEDs who have passed AFK and ACJ, Alberta offers a restricted practice license under supervision while continuing through the NDEB process.

  • Practice reversible dental procedures under a supervising dentist

  • 1-year pilot program, 12 seats

  • Application deadline: June 20, 2025

Learn more about Supportive Pathway

Bridge to Dental Practice in Canada (BTDPC):

A structured, 8-month clinical and communication training program offered by ACFD to help IEDs build readiness for licensure.

  • Offered at: University of Alberta, Dalhousie University, Université Laval

  • Must have passed AFK and ACJ, be a PR/citizen

  • Leads to eligibility for NDECC and licensure

Learn more about ACFD BTDPC Program

Key Highlights

  • NDEB certification is required for full licensure

  • Alberta now offers two new supportive and training-based routes

  • Ethics and Jurisprudence exam is mandatory

  • Certificates of Standing must be current (within 8 weeks)

  • Liability insurance is included with the practice permit