Reinstatement requires you to submit a formal request to the New York State Department of Health, pay a reinstatement fee, and meet any continuing education requirements that accumulated during the time your license was inactive.
Your path depends on how long your license has been inactive and why it lapsed. If you let it expire because you didn't renew on time, the process is straightforward. If your license was revoked or suspended due to a disciplinary action, you'll face additional steps and possible restrictions. New York treats these situations differently, and the Department of Health's Division of Professional Licensing Services handles all reinstatement requests.
The reinstatement fee varies based on your license type and how long it's been inactive. You'll also need to show that you've completed any continuing education hours required during the years you were not licensed. Some dentists can reinstate without additional coursework; others must complete specific hours before the Department will approve the request.
Key Takeaways
- Submit your reinstatement request directly to the New York State Department of Health, Division of Professional Licensing Services, not through a local office.
- You must pay a reinstatement fee and provide proof of any continuing education hours required during your license's inactive period.
- If your license was suspended or revoked due to discipline, you may need to complete additional requirements or wait a specified period before reinstatement is possible.
- Processing times vary, but you should expect several weeks to several months depending on whether your case requires review by a licensing board.
Licenses that expired because you didn't renew
If your license straightforward lapsed because you missed the renewal important date, reinstatement is the most direct path. New York dentists must renew every three years, and if you didn't submit your renewal process and fee by the expiration date, your license became inactive automatically.
To reinstate, contact the Department of Health's Division of Professional Licensing Services and request a reinstatement process. You'll need to provide your license number, current contact information, and proof that you've completed the continuing education hours required during the years you were not licensed. The number of hours depends on how long your license was inactive. For example, if your license expired three years ago and you're just now seeking reinstatement, you'll need to show completion of all continuing education that would have been required during those three years.
Submit the completed process along with the reinstatement fee and proof of continuing education to the address provided by the Department. Once received, the Department will review your materials and notify you of approval or any additional requirements.
Licenses suspended or revoked due to discipline
If your license was suspended or revoked because of a disciplinary action—such as a complaint about patient care, infection control violations, or other professional conduct issues—reinstatement involves a different process. You cannot straightforward pay a fee and renew; you must petition the Department or appear before the State Board for Professional Medical Conduct.
The specific steps depend on the reason for the suspension or revocation and the terms set when the discipline was imposed. Some suspensions include a reinstatement date after which you can reapply; others require you to petition the Board and demonstrate that you've addressed the underlying issue. For instance, if you were suspended for failing to maintain proper records, you might need to show that you've completed training in record-keeping practices.
Contact the Department of Health directly to learn the terms of your suspension or revocation and what you must do to become may be able to access for reinstatement. This information should be in the disciplinary order you received, but the Department can clarify the next steps.
Continuing education requirements during inactive status
New York requires dentists to complete continuing education hours every three years to maintain an active license. If your license has been inactive, you still need to show that you've completed the hours that would have been required during that period, even though you weren't practicing.
The number of hours required depends on your license type. General dentists typically need a certain number of hours per three-year cycle; specialists may have different requirements. You'll need to provide certificates or documentation from the courses you completed, showing the course title, date, number of hours, and the provider's name.
If you did not complete the required hours while your license was inactive, you have two options: complete them before submitting your reinstatement request, or ask the Department whether you can complete them after reinstatement is approved but before you resume practice. Some dentists find it easier to complete the hours first, so their reinstatement process is complete and ready for approval.
The reinstatement fee and what to submit
The reinstatement fee is separate from the renewal fee and covers the cost of processing your request. The amount varies depending on your license type and how long your license has been inactive. Check the Department of Health's website or call their licensing unit to confirm the current fee for your situation.
When you submit your reinstatement request, include the completed process form, the reinstatement fee (by check or money order, unless the Department accepts online payment), and copies of your continuing education certificates. Mail everything to the address provided by the Department of Health's Division of Professional Licensing Services. Keep copies of everything you send and note the date you mailed it.
Some dentists choose to send their materials by certified mail so they have proof of delivery. This is not required, but it can be helpful if there's any question later about whether the Department received your request.
Timeline and what to expect after you submit
After the Department receives your reinstatement request, processing typically takes several weeks to several months. The timeline depends on whether your case is straightforward (a straightforward lapsed license with completed continuing education) or whether it requires review by a licensing board or additional investigation.
The Department will contact you if they need more information or if there are any issues with your process. If your case is approved, you'll receive a new license certificate or an official notice of reinstatement. If there are problems—such as incomplete continuing education documentation or questions about your background—the Department will explain what you need to do to move forward.
During this waiting period, you cannot legally practice dentistry in New York. Do not schedule patients or perform dental work until you receive official confirmation that your license has been reinstated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I practice while my reinstatement request is being reviewed?
No. You cannot legally practice dentistry in New York with an inactive license. You must wait for official approval from the Department of Health before you see patients or perform any dental procedures. Practicing without an active license is illegal and can result in additional penalties.
What if I don't have all my continuing education certificates?
Contact the course providers or the organizations that issued your certificates and request copies. If you completed courses through a dental school, professional association, or online provider, they usually keep records and can resend documentation. If you cannot locate certificates for courses you completed, ask the Department whether you can retake those hours or provide alternative documentation.
How much does reinstatement cost?
The fee varies by license type and how long your license has been inactive. Contact the New York State Department of Health's Division of Professional Licensing Services directly for the exact amount. The fee is typically less than a renewal fee but more than a standard renewal process.
What if my license was revoked, not just suspended?
Revocation is permanent unless the Department allows you to petition for restoration. The terms for petitioning vary by case. Contact the Department to learn whether your revocation can be challenged and what evidence or conditions would be required for restoration to be considered.
Do I need a lawyer to reinstate my license?
For a straightforward lapsed license, you do not need legal representation. You can handle the reinstatement request yourself by following the Department's instructions. If your license was suspended or revoked due to discipline, or if you're unsure about the requirements, consulting with a lawyer who specializes in professional licensing may help you understand your options and prepare a stronger petition.