32-1276.01. Application for licensure; requirements; fingerprint clearance card; denial or suspension of application

A. An applicant for licensure as a dental therapist in this state shall do all of the following:

1. Apply to the board on a form prescribed by the board.

2. Verify under oath that all statements in the application are true to the applicant's knowledge.

3. Enclose with the application:

(a) A recent photograph of the applicant.

(b) The application fee established by the board by rule.

B. The board may grant a license to practice dental therapy to an applicant who meets all of the following requirements:

1. Is licensed as a dental hygienist pursuant to article 4 of this chapter.

2. Graduates from a dental therapy education program that is accredited by or holds an initial accreditation from the American dental association commission on dental accreditation and that is offered through an accredited higher education institution recognized by the United States department of education.

3. Successfully passes both of the following:

(a) Within five years before filing the application, a clinical examination that is either:

(i) The western regional examining board examination.

(ii) An examination in dental therapy administered by another state or testing agency that is substantially equivalent to the western regional examining board examination, as determined by the state board of dental examiners.

(b) The Arizona dental jurisprudence examination.

4. Is not subject to any grounds for denial of the application under this chapter.

5. Obtains a valid fingerprint clearance card issued pursuant to title 41, chapter 12, article 3.1.

6. Meets all requirements for licensure established by the board by rule.

C. The board may deny an application for licensure or license renewal if the applicant:

1. Has committed an act that would be cause for censure, probation or suspension or revocation of a license under this chapter.

2. While unlicensed, committed or aided and abetted the commission of an act for which a license is required by this chapter.

3. Knowingly made any false statement in the application.

4. Has had a license to practice dental therapy revoked by a regulatory board in another jurisdiction in the United States for an act that occurred in that jurisdiction and that constitutes unprofessional conduct pursuant to this chapter.

5. Is currently suspended or restricted by a regulatory board in another jurisdiction in the United States for an act that occurred in that jurisdiction and that constitutes unprofessional conduct pursuant to this chapter.

6. Has surrendered, relinquished or given up a license to practice dental therapy instead of having disciplinary action taken against the applicant by a regulatory board in another jurisdiction in the United States for an act that occurred in that jurisdiction and that constitutes unprofessional conduct pursuant to this chapter.

D. The board shall suspend an application for licensure if the applicant is currently under investigation by a dental regulatory board in another jurisdiction. The board shall not issue a license or deny an application for licensure until the investigation is completed.