DAT requirements: who can take it and what you need
There are no formal academic prerequisites for the DAT, but the ADA says successful candidates usually have at least a year of college, including biology, general chemistry and organic chemistry, and most take it after two or more years. You need a DENTPIN, an approved application and two matching forms of ID.
Source: ADA, DAT 2026 Candidate Guide (updated August 4, 2026). Checked October 12, 2026.
Academic preparation
The ADA doesn’t set formal prerequisites, but says successful candidates typically complete at least one year of college with courses in biology, general chemistry and organic chemistry. Advanced biology and physics aren’t required. Most candidates complete two or more years of college first, and the ADA encourages taking the DAT well before the dental school admission cycle.
What you need to test
Your Dental Personal Identification Number, from ADA.org/DENTPIN. If you already have one, use it rather than creating another.
Submit an application and the $580 fee through the DAT Program website. Once processed, you have six months to test.
A government-issued photo ID with your signature (driver's license or passport) plus a secondary ID with your name and signature. Both must be original, current and match your application exactly.
Retake rules
- Wait 60 days between attempts, with at most four attempts in any 12 months.
- From your third attempt, you must apply for permission, with proof you’ve applied to dental school in the past 18 months.
- After a fifth attempt, you can retest only once every 12 months.
- Every attempt needs a new application and fee, and you must take all sections.
Common questions
Can I use the DAT for Canadian dental schools?
Canadian schools may use the Canadian DAT instead. The ADA advises confirming that a Canadian school accepts the US DAT before applying.
Can I get testing accommodations?
Yes. The ADA provides accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act. Request them with each application, and don’t schedule until they’re approved.