Overseas-Trained Dentist? Here is How to Register in Australia

If you qualified as a dentist outside Australia, you cannot simply transfer your registration. You need to demonstrate your competence through a formal assessment process. For most dentists, this means the Australian Dental Council (ADC) examinations. Here is what that actually involves.

The standard pathway: ADC examinations

The ADC assessment has two parts. You must pass Part 1 before attempting Part 2.

Part 1 is a written examination: 200 multiple-choice questions over two sessions, testing theoretical knowledge across all areas of general dentistry. It is held multiple times per year at testing centres across Australia and some international locations. The fee is approximately $3,300.

Part 2 is practical: clinical procedures on mannequins and patient examination scenarios over two to three days. This tests whether you can actually perform dentistry to Australian standards. The fee is approximately $10,000.

The process typically takes 12-24 months from application to registration, depending on how quickly you can prepare and when examination spots are available.

Step by step

Initial application. Apply to the ADC for preliminary assessment of your qualifications. You will need certified copies of your dental degree, academic transcripts, evidence of English proficiency (IELTS, OET, or equivalent), and character and identity documents.

English requirements. You must demonstrate English proficiency through IELTS Academic (minimum 7.0 in each band), OET (minimum B in each component), or TOEFL iBT with scores as specified by AHPRA. This is non-negotiable, even if you trained in English.

Prepare for Part 1. Most candidates spend three to six months preparing. Resources include ADC practice questions and past papers, standard dental textbooks (particularly Australian editions where relevant), and preparatory courses offered by various providers.

Pass Part 1. Results typically come within six to eight weeks. If you fail, you can resit, though there are limits on attempts.

Prepare for and pass Part 2. The clinical exam tests hands-on skills in operative dentistry, prosthodontics, diagnosis, and patient communication. Many candidates take hands-on refresher courses before this stage.

Apply to AHPRA. After passing both examinations, apply to AHPRA for registration. You will need your ADC completion certificate, police checks from Australia and any countries you have lived in, professional indemnity insurance arrangements, and a CPD plan.

Alternative pathways

Bridging programs. Several universities offer full-time programs that lead to registration without sitting ADC exams. The University of Melbourne, University of Sydney, and Griffith University all have options. These typically run one to two years and cost $30,000-$80,000 or more. They suit candidates who prefer structured education over examination preparation.

Recognised qualifications. Dentists from certain institutions may qualify for a streamlined pathway. New Zealand qualifications have mutual recognition. Some Irish and UK programs are also recognised. Check the Dental Board website for the current list.

What it costs

While you wait

You cannot work as a dentist until you receive AHPRA registration—working without registration is a criminal offence. However, you can work in other roles. Some overseas dentists work as dental assistants to gain familiarity with Australian clinical environments and earn income while preparing for examinations.

Visa considerations

You will need an appropriate visa that allows you to work in Australia. Dentistry is on the skilled occupation list, making skilled migration visas a common pathway. However, visa requirements change frequently—consult a registered migration agent for advice specific to your situation.