How to Register for the INBDE
Are you ready to take the INBDE? Registering for the INBDE is a straightforward process, but it’s good to know about the INBDE cancellation and rescheduling policies in case you need to change your test date. In this guide, we will walk you through the INBDE registration process and outline the eligibility requirements to help you determine whether you qualify to take the exam. Keep reading to learn all about registering for the INBDE and take one step closer to becoming a licensed dentist.
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Steps to Register for the INBDE
Here is the step-by-step process of registering for the INBDE:
- If you do not already have one, obtain a Dental Personal Identification Number (DENTPIN®).
- Review the INBDE Candidate Guide to ensure you meet eligibility requirements to take the INBDE (learn more below).
- Submit your application to JCNDE and pay the non-refundable registration fee. Ensure the information on your application is accurate and matches your ID.
- If you are eligible to take the INBDE, you will receive an email from the JCNDE confirming that you are ready to schedule your test date.
- Schedule your INBDE through Prometric. We recommend scheduling your exam 60 to 90 days before your desired test date, as certain test dates may fill up.
How much is the INBDE registration fee?
In 2025, the INBDE exam registration fee is $880. This fee is non-transferable and non-refundable, so only register for the exam when you are committed to taking it. There is an extra $435 processing fee for students of a dental program that is not accredited by CODA, including international students. All INBDE fees are in U.S. dollars and are subject to change. Review the Candidate Guide for the most up-to-date information on INBDE registration fees.
INBDE Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the INBDE, you must meet certain eligibility requirements. These requirements differ based on where you received your dental education (at a dental school accredited by CODA or not) and whether you are a current student, a former student, or a graduate.
INBDE Eligibility Requirements: CODA-Accredited Programs
The table below showcases the INBDE eligibility requirements for students and graduates of CODA-accredited programs.
Current Students | Former Students | Graduates |
INBDE eligibility is approved when the dean (or designee) of the school confirms the student is prepared in all applicable disciplines. | Former students who have completed relevant coursework but are not currently enrolled are eligible to take the INBDE if they have been admitted or conditionally admitted to another CODA-accredited program. In such cases, verification from the dean of the admitting CODA-accredited program is required. | Graduates of a CODA-accredited dental program who are active, life, or retired members of the American Dental Association (ADA) are eligible to take the INBDE without needing to submit additional documentation of their degree. Affiliate members or non-members of the ADA must provide a copy of their diploma or other suitable verification of their dental degree. |
INBDE Eligibility Requirements: Non-CODA-Accredited Programs
All INBDE candidates educated by non-CODA-accredited dental programs must have their degree confirmed through Educational Credential Evaluators Inc. (ECE). ECE generates reports that confirm the educational degrees candidates have earned in countries outside the United States.
Current Students | Graduates |
In addition to confirming their educational degree through ECE, these students must have their status confirmed by their educational program through the completion of the Certification of Eligibility Form. Educational programs must send completed certification forms, which need to include the university seal and the dean or registrar’s signature. | Graduates of a non-CODA-accredited dental program must have their degree confirmed through ECE as described above. |
INBDE Test Dates
The INBDE is offered year-round at Prometric testing centers across the U.S. Once you’re approved to take the INBDE, you can schedule your test date. You typically have six months after your eligibility is confirmed to schedule and take the exam. All available INBDE test dates and times will be listed on the Prometric website. Keep in mind that the INBDE is a two-day exam, and you must schedule both test dates. Your second INBDE test date must occur within seven days of the first test day.
How to Reschedule Your INBDE
You can reschedule your INBDE exam for a fee and with enough notice. The longer you wait to reschedule your INBDE, the higher the fee will be. To reschedule your INBDE test date, contact Prometric directly through their website or by phone.
INBDE Rescheduling Fees
The table below showcases the current INBDE rescheduling fees. Please note that business days do not include Saturdays or Sundays.
Days Prior to Test Date | Fee (USD) |
30 or more business days | $50 |
5 to 29 business days | $70 |
1-4 business days | $150 |
Penalty if candidates fail to appear for their scheduled testing appointment or arrive more than 30 minutes late and are refused admission | The testing fee will be forfeited |
How to Cancel Your INBDE
You can cancel your INBDE testing appointment through Prometric. However, if insufficient notice is given, a cancellation fee may apply, similar to rescheduling fees. Note that the INBDE examination fee paid to the JCNDE when you apply is generally non-refundable and non-transferable, even if the exam is canceled. If, however, you do not appear for your scheduled test date and do not reschedule or cancel your appointment, you will forfeit all testing fees you have paid. In this case, if you want to reschedule your INBDE exam at a later time, a new application and fee will be required.
Written by Kaplan experts, reviewed by Dr. Swati Ahuja BDS, MDS, a project leader on Kaplan’s content team and a prosthodontist with over 15 years of diverse experience in dental education, scientific writing, and clinical practice.