Dentist Registration Process – Québec

This guide outlines the registration process for Internationally Educated Dentists (IEDs) applying to the Ordre des dentistes du Québec (ODQ). It explains the NDEB certification, equivalency review, and provincial requirements for licensure in Québec. 

Visit ODQ Website
Step 1: Complete NDEB Certification

All internationally trained dentists must obtain NDEB certification before applying in Québec.

Explore the NDEB Process

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Step 2: Apply for Equivalence with ODQ

Once certified by NDEB, you must apply for recognition of your diploma and experience through the ODQ’s equivalency process.

What to Submit:

  • NDEB Certificate

  • Transcripts and course descriptions

  • Certified copy of dental degree

  • Curriculum Vitae (including CE and clinical history)

  • Language proficiency documentation (French or English)

Documents must be in French or English. Translations are required if originally in another language.

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Step 3: Admissions Committee Review

The ODQ Admissions Committee reviews applications monthly.

Outcomes:

  • Full equivalence granted

  • Conditional acceptance with supervised practice period (usually 6 months)

  • Referral to additional education or assessments

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Step 4: Register for Professional Liability Insurance

In Québec, all licensed dentists must hold professional liability insurance through the Fonds d’assurance-responsabilité professionnelle de l’Ordre des dentistes du Québec (FARPODQ).

What You Need to Know:

  • Coverage is mandatory unless you qualify for a specific exemption.

  • The insurance is managed directly by the ODQ’s own fund.

  • Coverage includes all professional dental services rendered in Québec, including advisory and consulting work.

  • The policy provides $2 million coverage per claim, operating on a claims-made basis.

Exemptions from Coverage:

You may be eligible to opt out of the ODQ insurance plan if you:

  • Work solely for the Government of Québec or designated public agencies

  • Are employed by the federal government or a recognized Crown corporation

  • Practice exclusively within a Québec dental faculty

  • Are enrolled full-time in an approved graduate program and provide services only in that context

To be exempt, you must formally apply to the ODQ and submit supporting documentation.

For complete information, visit the FARPODQ official website.

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Step 5: Licensure Approval

Once equivalence is confirmed and insurance secured, you’ll be granted a license to practice in Québec.

Key Highlights

  • All applicants must go through an ODQ equivalence process.

  • French language proficiency is strongly recommended, especially for practice in francophone regions.

  • Supervised practice may be required based on education or clinical history.