The ADC works to protect the health and safety of the public by ensuring dental practitioners meet the high standards required of dental professionals in Australia.
Information for internationally qualified dental practitioners on assessment pathways and requirements for practice in Australia.
Guidance and resources for education providers delivering ADC-accredited dental practitioner programs in Australia.
Learn more about our submissions, consultations and research activities that support the oral health sector
ADC International (ADCI) is a leading independent authority in accreditation and assessment of health programs worldwide, with a particular focus on oral health.
The examination is held over one or two days, usually twice a year, but may be scheduled according to demand and availability of the examination centre. It assesses you across the range of the Professional competencies of the newly qualified dental hygienist, dental therapist, and oral health therapist. You are eligible to sit the practical examination within five years of completion of your written examination.
The Practical examination handbook for dental hygiene and dental therapy (PDF, 715KB) and the Practical examination information package for dental hygiene and dental therapy (PDF, 1.8MB) provide a complete overview of the practical examination format and requirements.
We do not recommend or endorse any proprietary or informal courses advertising as preparation for the practical examination. These courses are developed and run without ADC input. We cannot be held responsible for the quality of training or advice provided through these courses.
You are eligible to apply for registration with the Dental Board of Australia once you successfully complete the practical examination.
Depending on profession a one or two day simulation-based examination assessing your practical clinical skills.
ELIGIBILITY:
Successful, valid initial assessment and valid written examination
TIMEFRAME:
4 to 7 months from application period to results release (approximately)
COST:
$3,342 AUD
VALIDITY:
Does not expire
Application Period: ⓘMore informationYou must apply for a practical examination date during this time period. All eligible candidates will receive an email at the start of this period with a link to apply.
5 – 11 August 2026
Examination Date:ⓘMore informationThe practical examination will be held on these dates.
Wednesday 4 and Thursday 5 November 2026
10 – 17 March 2027
Examination Date:ⓘMore informationA specific date for the practical examination will be confirmed after the application period.
June 2027
4 – 11 August 2027
November 2027
To sit the practical examination, you must:
If you meet the eligibility requirements a practical examination application link will appear on your ADC Connect profile when the application period opens.
Follow the instructions to complete the application and pay the associated fee. Once payment is processed you will receive an email to confirm your application has been received. Your ADC Connect profile will also be updated confirming your practical examination.
Within a week of the application period closing the ADC will send you an email confirming your practical examination session. Your ADC Connect profile will be updated with your confirmed dates.
You will receive an email with your practical examination schedule approximately four weeks before your examination.
We will supply the materials and equipment you need for the practical examination.
You are required to follow the terms of the Candidate rules agreement for the practical examination (PDF, 56KB) during the practical examination.
During registration you must present government-issued photographic identification. Your identification must be current and include your signature. We will also take your photo at this time.
The Practical examination handbook for dental hygiene and dental therapy (PDF, 715KB) contains more information about practical examination day process.
Your practical examination results will be released via ADC Connect approximately six weeks after your examination date.
Information about how the practical examination is graded is available in the Practical examination handbook for dental hygiene and dental therapy (PDF, 715KB).
After you successfully complete the practical examination, you will be awarded an ADC certificate. This certificate confirms your eligibility to apply for registration with the Dental Board of Australia. It will be available to download via your ADC Connect account.