A Two-Part Exam

ABPD Certification Examinations

The ABPD initial certification process assesses the habitual and thoughtful use of specialized knowledge and skills, clinical reasoning, communication, and professionalism required of entry-level pediatric dentists for safe and effective practice, to benefit the individuals, families, and communities served.  

 

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Part I

Qualifying Examination

The QE is the first examination of the two-part certification process for Diplomate status in the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. The examination is designed to generate evidence toward validation of the individual's advanced training in pediatric dentistry. The QE must be successfully completed prior to registering for the OCE.

The QE has 240 multiple choice questions. Candidates have 4 hours to complete the examination. The QE is administered annually in May at testing centers.

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Part II

Oral Clinical Examination

The OCE is the last examination of the two-part certification process for diplomate status in the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. The purpose of the OCE is to enable the candidate to demonstrate proficiency in diagnosis, treatment planning, and clinical care.

The examination is composed of two one-hour sessions administered successively by two examiners. Each session consists of clinical vignettes that are presented to the candidate for discussion. The exam is administered annually at a facility specifically designed for administration of professional specialty board oral examinations.

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For more information about ABPD Certification, please download and view our certification guide.

Certification Guide


Which Definition Applies To You? 

INITIAL CERTIFICATION STATUSES


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Applicant

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Candidate

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Registrant

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Diplomate

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Step by Step

Path to Certification

Pediatric Dentistry Program

Begin advanced education in pediatric dentistry program.

Qualifying Examination

Apply for the Qualifying Examination in final residency year or if all eligibility requirements are met. The QE application is available August 1 – December 15th. The QE exam is administered annually in May at testing centers.

Board Candidacy

Apply for Board Candidacy with proof of dental license and completion of pediatric residency program. The deadline to apply for Board Candidacy is December 30th of the year participating in the QE. Click here for more information on Board Candidacy.

Oral Clinical Examination

Candidates that have successfully completed the QE and applied for Board Candidacy can apply for the Oral Clinical Examination. The OCE application opens annually in January. The OCE is administered annually at a facility specially designed for administration of professional specialty board oral examinations.

Board Certification

Once a candidate successfully completes all requirements, the candidate will earn ABPD certification and become an ABPD Diplomate.


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Board Certification Demonstrates:

  • A pediatric dentist has the required specialized knowledge and skills to earn board certification.
  • A pediatric dentist has commitment to continuous competency and lifelong learning.
  • A pediatric dentist has dedication to providing quality patient care.
  • An additional credential that may be required for hospital privileges.


Examination Eligibility Requirements:

To be eligible, a pediatric dentist must provide evidence of one of the following two:

  • Completion of or in the final year of an advanced education in pediatric dentistry residency program which is approved by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) or the Commission of Dental Accreditation of Canada (CDAC).
  • Completion of or in the final year of an advanced placement program in pediatric dentistry which is approved by Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) or the Commission of Dental Accreditation of Canada (CDAC). 

In order to become a candidate for certification the following documentation is required:

  • Active dental license with an expiration date, or a faculty permit, or a faculty limited license, or an international license. 
  • Certificate or diploma from advanced training program.