How to Register as Dental Nurse with Irish Dental Council?

If you have earned a dental nursing qualification from any of the institutions mentioned below, you are eligible for automatic recognition of your credentials. This recognition allows you to seek registration:

• Dublin Dental University Hospital
• University of Dublin
• University Dental School & Hospital Cork
• National University of Ireland Cork
• Athlone Institute of Technology
• Letterkenny IT
• National Examining Board for Dental Nurses UK

If your dental nurse qualification is from an institution not listed above, and you believe your education and training enable you to proficiently undertake the full scope of practice for dental nurses in Ireland, you may apply for assessment to obtain registration.

It's important to note that registration with the Register of Dental Nurses is voluntary in Ireland. While it's not mandatory for dental nurse practice, only registered dental nurses are authorized to perform dental radiography under a dentist's prescription, following completion of a Dental Council approved course in dental radiography.

To register as a dental nurse in Ireland, you will need to follow these steps: 

1. Eligibility Check: Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria set by the Dental Council of Ireland for registration as a dental nurse. This may include having completed an approved dental nurse training program or equivalent qualifications.

2. Application Form: Obtain and complete the application form for registration from the Dental Council of Ireland's website or office.

3. Documentation: Gather the necessary documentation required for your application, which may include proof of identity, proof of qualification, and any other supporting documents as specified by the Dental Council.

4. Application Submission: Submit your completed application form along with the required documentation to the Dental Council of Ireland.

5. Assessment: If you've obtained a qualification from an institution not listed for automatic recognition, you may need to undergo an assessment to demonstrate your competence to undertake the full scope of practice for dental nurses in Ireland.

6. Registration Fee: Pay the applicable registration fee as required by the Dental Council of Ireland. The fee amount may vary, so check the current fee schedule.

7. Decision: Await the decision on your application from the Dental Council of Ireland. If your application is successful, you'll be registered as a dental nurse in Ireland.

8. Renewal: Keep your registration up to date by renewing it periodically as per the Dental Council's requirements. This typically involves paying a renewal fee and fulfilling any continuing professional development (CPD) obligations.

Registration Fees: 

Click here to pay for your fees with the IDC

Registration Periods: Dental Nurses – 1 September to 31 August annually. 

• €15.00 Registration fee
• €20.00 Annual retention fee

How to Apply?

• Download, Complete and Return the following application form to the IDC - Download
• Download, Read Checklist prior to Application Submission - Download
• If you are applying for assessment prior to registration download assessment application - Download
• Assessment Application Checklist - Download

The Dental Council suggests allowing for a three-month timeframe for the registration process. While we strive to expedite application processing, delays may occur due to incomplete submissions or the need for additional information. It's recommended not to schedule patient appointments until registration is complete.

Communication regarding applications for registration will solely involve the applicant.

When compiling your application, it's essential to refer to the relevant checklist provided.

Registration:

Individuals seeking registration should mail the following documents to the address provided:

• Completed application form
• Proof of identification
• Copy of your qualification
• Evidence of language proficiency
• Letter(s) of good standing or certificate(s) of current professional status
• Translations if applicable
• Registration fee

Please review the accompanying checklist while organizing your application.

If you're a recent graduate qualified in Ireland, please refer to the dedicated page for new graduates.

Assessment:

For those applying for assessment, please submit all required information listed in the provided checklist by mail to the address above. Before assembling your application, ensure eligibility for assessment by contacting the registration department. Bound information may be separated for assessment checks; therefore, avoid unnecessary binding. Notarized translations must be bound by the translator and should not be separated before submission.

Registration for Recent Dental Graduates in Ireland:

For recent graduates who have completed their studies within the Republic of Ireland:

Information Pertaining to Newly Graduated Professionals in Dentistry, Dental Hygiene, Dental Nursing, Orthodontic Therapy, and Clinical Dental Technology.

The Dental Council advises allowing a three-month period for the registration process. While we endeavor to process applications promptly, delays may arise due to incomplete submissions or the need for additional information. It is strongly recommended not to schedule patient appointments until registration is finalized.

Graduates from Irish institutions may have the opportunity to expedite their registration process through our registration booths, established within your training institution post-graduation, offering a swifter registration turnaround. This pathway typically ensures processing within two weeks. For further details on our registration booths, please contact the registration department.

All communication regarding applications and inquiries will be conducted directly with the applicant.

Registration Application: Kindly submit by mail to the address provided:

• Completed application form
• Character reference
• Copy of your primary qualification
• Proof of identification
• Registration fee

Prior to compiling your application, please review the checklist provided below.

All Relevant Forms

Requesting a Letter of Good Standing (certificate of current professional status): Please submit by mail to the address provided:

• Completed letter of good standing request form
• Character reference
• Copy of your primary qualification
• Copy of your passport