Licensure, Registration, Renewal, and Continuing Education
This domain tests how a dentist or hygienist obtains and keeps Mississippi licensure. The exam focuses on application accuracy, renewal obligations, continuing education documentation, and the consequences of practicing on a lapsed license.
Core rules
- Licensure requires a completed application, proof of education and credentials, examination or reciprocity/credentials review where authorized, and payment of fees.
- Licensees must renew on the Board's schedule, pay the renewal fee, attest to required continuing education, and report disciplinary or criminal matters as required.
- Continuing education must be Board-approved and relevant; licensees must keep certificates and course documentation for audit. Mandated subjects may include infection control, opioid prescribing, or jurisprudence.
- Practicing after expiration or on an inactive status is unlicensed practice, even if renewal is later completed.
- A licensee must notify the Board of changes affecting the license, such as name, address, or adverse actions.
Worked example
A dentist completes an online course from a provider not approved by the Board and claims the hours on renewal. The hours are deficient unless the Board accepts the provider or the course fits an approved category. The dentist should replace them with approved hours before attestation and retain proof. Renewal is not a mere fee payment; it is a verified statement of compliance.
Traps that cost marks
Do not assume any CE course counts. Do not confuse CPR certification with general CE unless the Board specifically requires or accepts it. Do not practice while a renewal is pending; confirm active status. Keep records beyond the renewal date because audits can occur later.
Exam focus
Match the license type to its scope, identify the renewal conditions, and treat false attestations as professional conduct issues, not paperwork errors.