Cpr[1]
0 hrs
Ongoing
Current CPR certification required, in addition to the 15-hour annual CE.
View detailsEditorial summary
21 NCAC 16RSee source [1] in Primary Sources
Mandatory topics
For Dentists, 15 hours is the total CME requirement. North Carolina also requires a set of one-time topics that count toward the 15-hour total.
Atlas CME tracks each of these mandatory topics against your North Carolina cycle automatically. Start tracking free →
Conditional requirements
These rules apply only when the trigger described under each card is met (for example, holding a state-issued controlled substance registration or treating a specific patient population). Each cites the underlying statute or rule directly.
ConditionalPsychiatry[2]
1 hr
Biennial
All active dentists every two calendar years
View sourceVerbatim from source
“Every two calendar years, each dentist shall complete one clock hour of continuing education on substance abuse and mental health.”
21 NCAC 16R .0206See source [2] in Primary Sources
Accepted credit
Credit must come from an organization accredited by the ACCME, AMA, North Carolina Medical Association, or AAFP. ACGME residency or fellowship time accrues toward the requirement. Teaching or presenting accredited CME can satisfy a portion of required hours.
| Credit system | Notes |
|---|---|
ADA CERP | ADA CERP-recognized providers accepted.Sourcehttps://ncrules.elaws.us/code/21ncac16r.0103[3] |
AGD PACE | AGD PACE-approved providers accepted.Sourcehttps://ncrules.elaws.us/code/21ncac16r.0103[3] |
Board-approved credit | Board-approved providers per 21 NCAC 16R.Sourcehttps://ncrules.elaws.us/code/21ncac16r.0103[3] |
Documentation & audit
North Carolina uses an annual (calendar year) CE cycle — 15 hours per year, every year.
Waivers & exemptions
Semi-retired Class I dentist (practicing ≤250 clock hours per calendar year) is exempt from all CE requirements.
FAQ
Does North Carolina treat DDS and DMD differently for CE purposes?
No. DDS and DMD are equivalent dental degrees, and the North Carolina State Board of Dental Examiners applies identical CE rules to both.
Are ADA CERP credits accepted in North Carolina?
Yes. ADA CERP-recognized and AGD PACE-approved providers are accepted under the Board's general approved-provider framework in 21 NCAC 16R.
Are there mandatory CE topics for dentist renewal in North Carolina?
Yes — every dentist must complete 1 hour of substance abuse and mental health CE every two calendar years per 21 NCAC 16R .0206. CPR certification is required separately. Sedation permit holders must complete permit-tier-specific sedation CE under the Board's sedation rules.
Where can I check my North Carolina dental license renewal date?
The North Carolina State Board of Dental Examiners maintains license records at ncdentalboard.org. Renewal aligns with the annual calendar-year cycle.