Iowa Dental Board Update on Dental Assistant Law and Renewal Process
The Iowa Dental Board, through the Department of Inspections, Appeals, and Licensing (DIAL), issued the following statement about dental assistants in light of the new law and registration renewal:
Regulatory Update and Renewal Notice
2025 Iowa Acts HF 805
Effective July 1, 2025, registration is no longer required to practice as a dental assistant in Iowa. Registration continues to be an option for those who are interested. Please note that Iowa law still requires dental assistants who take x-rays to obtain and hold a current qualification in dental radiography. Registration for dental assistants performing expanded functions is optional. The Board will update rules in the coming months. Click here for more information about House File 805.
Renewal of Registrations & Radiography Qualifications
Renewal Begins July 2025
Dental assistants only need to submit a renewal application if they intend to renew a registration and/or radiography qualification. Dental assistants who are not renewing a registration or qualification do not need to take any action.
Modifications to Database Implementing HF 805
Modifications to the database to implement House File 805 will be completed by July 15, 2025. Individuals who wish to only renew their radiography qualification should wait to begin renewal until this date. Dental assistants who wish to renew both their registration and radiography qualification may do so beginning July 1, 2025.
Registration/qualification numbers begin with one of the following designations.
RDA: Registered Dental Assistant一No Radiography Qualification
QDA: Registered Dental Assistant with a Radiography Qualification
XDA: Radiography Qualification for Non-Registered Dental Assistants or Licensed Nurses
Renewal Options for Registered Dental Assistants with Dental Radiography Qualifications
Dental assistants who hold a registration and radiography qualification (QDA) will need to indicate the preference for renewal. If you hold a QDA and want to renew, you have the following options:
Remain a QDA by completing the QDA renewal; or
Renew only the radiography qualification without registration by completing the XDA renewal July 15, 2025, or later. A new XDA number and card will be issued to you.
Note: Dental assistants uncertain about whether or not to renew registration should consult with their employer to verify what requirements, if any, he or she may have.