A few years ago, this exam was barely on the radar.
If you weren’t a graduate from the University of Hong Kong, you could hardly dream of becoming a licensed dentist in Hong Kong.
That has changed.
More and more dentists from mainland China and overseas are now actively preparing for this exam.
Not because it’s “easy” — but because it’s practical, clear, and opens real doors:
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A legitimate route to practice dentistry in Hong Kong
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Open to non-Hong Kong residents and international graduates
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Equal registration rights as local HKU BDS graduates
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Starting salaries from HK$40,000/month and up
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Fully exam-based — if you can pass, you’re in
But before you commit, let’s go through what you really need to know.
1｜This is not just a “credential exam” — it’s a gateway to practice
This is not a resume booster or a title for promotion.
It’s a professional licensing exam that determines whether you are legally allowed to practice dentistry in Hong Kong.
Once you pass all parts, you are eligible for full registration —
on the same terms as any locally trained dentist.
No quota, no special permit, no distinction.
It’s a real pathway, not a shortcut.
2｜It’s not easy, but it’s transparent and prepare‑able
The exam has three parts:
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Part 1: Written Exam
Clinical dentistry + Dental ethics & regulations -
Part 2: Technical Skills Exam
Hands-on prep on model teeth (e.g., crown, MOD cavity, endo access) -
Part 3: Clinical Assessment
OSCE + case discussion + clinical judgement
Part 1 is held twice a year (April & September),
Part 2 and 3 are typically scheduled in February and August.
You must complete all 3 parts within 5 years.
This means casual “give-it-a-try” attempts won’t work —
you need to commit and plan accordingly.
The good news is:
Every step is well-documented, rule-based, and can be prepared for.
No “mystery” scoring, no sudden policy changes.
3｜You don’t need to be a Hong Kong citizen to take it
Since 2016, the Dental Council of Hong Kong has officially opened this exam to international candidates.
You are eligible if:
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You hold a dental degree (5 years or more) recognized by your home country
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You are eligible to register or practice as a dentist in your home region
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You can submit full transcripts and clinical training documents
Whether you studied in mainland China, Australia, the UK, Southeast Asia, or elsewhere —
you can apply, prepare, and sit for the exam legally.
No local citizenship or residency required.
4｜It’s a serious investment — of time, money, and effort
Let’s be honest. This is not a “weekend course” or a “low-bar” exam.
You’ll need:
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~1 to 1.5 years of preparation
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Study time + simulation practice
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Registration, models, materials, potential flights to HK
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Total cost: approx. RMB 30,000 – 50,000, depending on your pace and support
But what do you gain if you pass?
✅ Legal right to work in Hong Kong’s public or private dental system
✅ Strong starting salary & income potential
✅ Eligibility for specialist training and CPD in HK
✅ Opportunity to apply for long-term residency or open your own practice
It’s not a shortcut — but it is a solid, legal, and long-term path.
5｜We’ll host a live trial class in December — perfect for those still deciding
In mid-December, we’ll offer an open trial class that walks you through:
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The full structure of the HK dental licensing exam
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How each part is conducted and scored
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Misconceptions and FAQs (e.g. Can non-locals really work in HK?)
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Case studies and teaching highlights from past sessions
This is not a sales pitch.
It’s a chance for you to truly understand the exam before deciding whether it’s for you.
If you’re even just curious, this is a good time to start gathering real information.
Final Words:
If you’re a dentist looking to expand your career,
open up new geography, or find a path with long-term potential —
the Hong Kong Dental Licensing Exam may be the route worth considering.
And if you’re not sure yet?
We’re not here to push.
We’re here to explain clearly, show transparently, and support genuinely.