Already Licensed in Another Province - Graduate Student Dentist

Please note that we are transitioning from paper application forms to an online application form. We expect the online process to be implemented by May 17, 2024. We thank you for your patience.

In order to be registered and licensed to practice dentistry in Nova Scotia, you will be required to upload the following documents within your online application:

1. A passport-style photo taken with the previous 12 months

2. A copy of your acceptance letter from Dalhousie University accepting you into the program

3. If an applicant is not a Canadian citizen or permanent resident of Canada, the applicant must provide details about their current citizenship status and a certified copy of the authorization issued by Citizenship and Immigration Canada which permits them to engage in the practice of dentistry in Canada.

4. Verification (receipt) of active student membership in the Nova Scotia Dental Association (Please contact the NSDA: 902-420-0088)

5. Verification of malpractice insurance through CDSPI - minimum of $3 million coverage

6. A Vulnerable Sector Search and a Criminal Record Check (performed within the previous 12 months)

7. Two written character references from non-family members who have known you for the past four years - The reference letters must:

• be signed,
• be dated,
• indicate how long the person has known you, and
• have been written within the past 12 months.

8. Verification of your current certification in CPR/BLS (Must be an in-person hands-on course from a recognized provider)

9. A Certificate of Standing from every jurisdiction that you are currently or have been previously licensed in. Please see the Certificate of Standing form below.

10. Translation of documents (if applicable)

Once your application has been approved, you will be required to pay the following non-refundable fee through our online portal:

• $100 initial registration fee
• $88 annual licensing fee

Also, please note the following:

• If you do not have all your documentation on hand, you may begin your online application, save it, and return to the application at a later time.
• If you are currently or have previously been licensed in another jurisdiction, you must request that a Certificate of Standing be sent directly to our office from each of those jurisdictions.
• Applications will be deleted from our system if not completed within 3 months. After that time, applicants will be required to restart their application process.
• By submitting an application, you consent to the Registrar or PDBNS staff obtaining clarification of documents as deemed necessary.

Licensing Process

The application and supporting documentation are reviewed by Registrar.

The Provincial Dental Board will contact the applicant to schedule an appointment to meet with the Registrar to discuss their application.

In circumstances where the Registrar needs to obtain additional information, the registration process will require additional time to complete.

Applicants cannot begin to practise without a license.

Successful applicants who meet all of the licensing requirements will be entered into the Dentists' Register and issued a license.

Applicants who have been declined licensure may appeal the Registrar's decision to the Registration Appeal Committee.