What Is the INBDE Exam?
Your guide to everything you need to know about the INBDE exam, including test dates, fees, registration, and more.
About the INBDE
The Integrated National Board Dental Examination (INBDE) is a newer dental licensing exam that has replaced the former National Board Dental Examination (NBDE) Part I and Part II exams. The INBDE is a two-day digital exam that evaluates if candidates possess the necessary level of clinical skills to safely practice entry-level dentistry. Passing the INBDE is required for dental licensure in the U.S.
INBDE Exam Schedule
The total administration time for the INBDE is twelve hours and 30 minutes. This includes all of the optional breaks, tutorial, and post-exam survey. The INBDE is administered over two days. The second exam day must occur within seven days of the first day.
INBDE Exam Content
INBDE Day 1 consists of 360 test items (three sets of 100 standalone items and one set of 60 case questions). INBDE Day 2 includes 140 test items (two sets of 70 case questions). The 500 exam questions will cover the Domain of Dentistry, which is represented through a set of Clinical Content areas and Foundation Knowledge areas required for the safe, independent general practice of dentistry by entry-level practitioners. The Domain of Dentistry serves as the key reference for the INBDE test specifications.
INBDE Day 1 Exam Schedule
INBDE Section | Number of Items | Time |
|---|---|---|
Tutorial (optional) | — | 15 minutes |
Section 1 | 100 standalone items | 105 minutes |
Break (optional) | — | 15 minutes |
Section 2 | 100 standalone items | 105 minutes |
Break (optional) | — | 30 minutes |
Section 3 | 100 standalone items | 105 minutes |
Break (optional) | — | 15 minutes |
Section 4 | 60 items (cases) | 105 minutes |
Total items: 360 | Total time: 8 hours 15 minutes |
INBDE Day 2 Exam Schedule
INBDE Section | Number of Items | Time |
|---|---|---|
Tutorial (optional) | — | 15 minutes |
Section 5 | 70 items (cases) | 105 minutes |
Break (optional) | — | 15 minutes |
Section 6 | 70 items (cases) | 105 minutes |
Post-exam survey (optional) | — | 15 minutes |
Total items: 140 | Total time: 4 hours 15 minutes |
INBDE Test Dates
The INBDE is generally taken during the third year of dental school; however, the best time for students to take the exam depends on their dental school, state licensing requirements, and residency program requirements. The exam is conveniently offered year-round at Prometric Test Centers. INBDE test dates vary by location. Students should schedule their test date 60-90 days before they plan to sit for the exam.
INBDE Registration
Registration for the INBDE is a straightforward process:
- Create a personal ID number (DENTPINⓇ)
- Review the INBDE Candidate Guide to ensure eligibility requirements are met
- Submit an application to the JCNDE
- Receive an eligibility email from JCNDE
- Visit the Prometric website to select a test date
INBDE Exam Fees
Current INBDE exam fees are listed below. All INBDE fees are non-refundable and non-transferable.
Type of Fee | Amount ($) |
|---|---|
INBDE Exam Fee | $845 |
Processing Fee (for International Candidates) | $350 |
Optional Results Report Fee | $50 per report |
Optional Results Audit Fee | $65 |
INBDE Certificate | Log in using DENTPIN® |
Eligibility Extension Fee (45 days) | $135 |
INBDE Passing Score
The INBDE is scored on a scale of 49-99. A scaled score of 75 or above is considered a passing score. Numeric scores are not expected to be provided to students who pass the examination. Candidates who fail the examination will receive a performance report by topic for remediation purposes.
How to Prep for the INBDE
Reviewing different types of dental charts and working through practice questions is critical to studying for the INBDE. This is the best way to be prepared for all case and item types. Kaplan’s INBDE Qbank features high-quality, test-like multiple-choice questions with in-depth answer explanations. Our INBDE On Demand Videos will cover every topic on the JCNDE Blueprint taught by top dental faculty nationwide. We’ll help you prepare to pass the INBDE and achieve your dream of becoming a licensed dentist.
Ready to prep?
Let our expert teachers be your guide with a prep course that fits your schedule. No matter what stage of INBDE prep you’re in, Kaplan can help you pass the exam.