As a reminder, in order to remain compliant with RCW 70.352.060, all dental laboratories operating in Washington that provide services for outside dental offices must renew their registration by July 31 of each year. The Department of Health (DOH) is encouraging providers to submit registration renewals early to allow for processing time, and dental laboratory application and renewal documentation must be kept on file for a period of four years. To renew a registration, providers must pay the associated fee and submit the completed renewal application packet.

In addition to the completed renewal application packet, to qualify for registration renewal the applicant or one of the applicant’s employees who works at least 30 hours per week in the lab must:

• Have successfully completed at least 12 hours of continuing education in dental laboratory technology (approved by the National Board for Certification in Dental Laboratory Technology during the 12 months immediately prior to your application); or,
• Be certified by the National Board for Certification in Dental Laboratory Technology as a certified dental technician in good standing.

Exceptions

There are a few exceptions to maintaining a dental laboratory registration. Under RCW 70.352.900, licensed denturists are exempt from this requirement. Further, if your dental laboratory only provides services for your office and not for outside dental offices, you do not need a registration.

For more information, visit the DOH Dental Laboratories Frequently Asked Questions page, and for help registering a dental lab, please contact Bruce Bronoske, Dental Laboratory Program Manager.