Arizona Dental AssiIf you want to work as a dental assistant in Arizona, you must follow specific state regulations. This guide explains every requirement you need to meet—especially the Arizona Radiologic Proficiency Certificate (AZRC) and Coronal Polishing Certification, which are mandatory to legally perform X-rays and basic clinical duties.
This page is designed to help beginners understand exactly how Arizona Dental Assistant Licensing works and what steps to take next.stant Licensing Requirements: AZ X-Ray & Coronal Polishing Certification
What Certifications Do Dental Assistants Need in Arizona?
Arizona is one of the few states with strict licensing rules for dental assistants. The main certifications required are:
1. Arizona Radiologic Proficiency Certificate (AZRC)
The AZRC allows you to legally take dental X-rays in Arizona.
To qualify, you must:
- Complete an approved radiology training program
- Perform required clinical X-ray competencies
- Pass the Arizona state radiology exam
Without this certificate, you cannot take X-rays in any Arizona dental office.
2. Coronal Polishing Certification
This certification allows you to perform coronal polishing under a dentist’s supervision.
Requirements include:
- Completing a board-approved polishing course
- Demonstrating hands-on clinical proficiency
- Verification from a licensed instructor or clinical site
Most dental offices expect assistants to hold this credential.
Why Arizona Licensing Matters for Dental Assistants
Arizona law is clear:
If you perform X-rays or polishing without certification, the dental office can be fined and you can be removed from the position.
Obtaining these credentials ensures:
- You meet legal requirements
- You qualify for higher-paying positions
- You become more competitive in Phoenix, Tucson, and surrounding areas
- You can be hired faster by dental offices that require certified assistants
How Long Does Arizona Dental Assistant Licensing Take?
Most students complete the full licensing pathway in:
- 4–12 weeks for didactic training (online or hybrid)
- 1–2 weeks for required clinical hours
- 1–2 weeks to receive state approval
Total average: 6–12 weeks, depending on your schedule.
Arizona Dental Assistant Salary After Licensing
Once fully certified, dental assistants in Arizona earn:
- $45,000+ starting salary in Phoenix
- $48,000–$55,000 with experience or specialty training
- Higher pay in corporate dental chains and orthodontic practices
How to Get Your AZRC and Coronal Polishing Certification
Here is the step-by-step Arizona licensing pathway:
Step 1 — Enroll in an accredited training program
Choose a program approved by the Arizona State Board of Dental Examiners (ASBDE).
Our program includes:
- Complete AZRC training
- Coronal polishing module
- Clinical externship placement
- State exam preparation
Step 2 — Complete the required coursework
This includes:
- Radiology theory
- Safety protocols
- Anatomy and X-ray positioning
- Polishing techniques
- Infection control
Step 3 — Perform required clinical competencies
We coordinate your clinical externship so you can practice:
- Taking full-mouth X-rays
- Bitewings and periapicals
- Coronal polishing procedures
- Chairside assisting
Step 4 — Take the state exam
Once you complete your competencies, you will:
- Register for the AZ radiology exam
- Submit documentation
- Receive your license via the Arizona Board
Our program includes complete exam prep.
Enroll Today & Start Your Arizona Dental Career
Becoming licensed is the fastest path to a stable, high-paying healthcare career in Arizona.
Our program gives you everything you need:
- Arizona-approved curriculum
- Online + hybrid learning
- Guaranteed clinical externship
- Radiology & polishing included
- Support in English and Spanish