To practice in California, graduates of the dental and dental hygiene curricula must pass the Dental Board of California examinations given each year in June or July. The State of California requires successful completion of Part I and Part II of the National Board Dental Examination before admitting applicants to the state boards.

The Dental Board of California requires that all applicants taking the examination for license to practice dentistry in California answer the following question: "Have you ever been convicted, OR pleaded guilty to the violation of any law or ordinance or the commission of any felony or misdemeanor (excluding traffic violations)?" The board has requested each dental school to advise all applicants for admission that eligibility to practice dentistry in this state may be determined by the answer to this question. If applicants may have a problem because of this, they should contact the Dental Board of California.