Overview
If you want to work as a dentist in the UK, the key first question is: Can you register directly with the GDC, or do you need an exam route such as the ORE or LDS?
After GDC registration, your next steps depend on the type of work you want: private practice, hospital dentistry, training posts, or NHS primary care. NHS primary care usually requires an extra entry step such as a performers list route, especially in England and Wales.
Best first move
Check whether your qualification is directly recognised by the GDC before planning exams.
Main Routes to Practise
1) Direct registration
This route applies if you hold a qualification the GDC recognises for registration, or if you qualify under current EEA arrangements.
- Fastest route when eligible
- Still requires GDC application checks
- English language evidence may still be needed
2) ORE or LDS route
If your qualification is not recognised, you usually need to pass the Overseas Registration Examination (ORE) or the Licence in Dental Surgery (LDS) before applying for full GDC registration.
- ORE has Part 1 and Part 2
- LDS is another accepted exam route
- Passing lets you apply for GDC registration
3) Temporary registration
Temporary registration is only for approved supervised posts such as training, teaching, or research. It is not for general or private practice.
- You need an approved post offer first
- Hospital / dental school style route
- Limited and supervised
Step-by-Step Preparation Roadmap
Check if your degree is recognised
Start with the GDC list of recognised overseas qualifications and the EEA route page.
Choose your route
Your route will usually be direct registration, ORE/LDS, or temporary registration for an approved post.
Prepare English language evidence
The GDC must be satisfied that applicants have the necessary knowledge of English before registration.
Collect your documents
Typical items include passport ID, primary dental qualification, certificates of good standing, English evidence, and route-specific documents.
If needed, apply for ORE or LDS
ORE requires an application fee before you can progress, and then separate fees for each exam part.
Apply for GDC registration
Once you meet the route requirements, submit your registration application and fee.
Decide your work setting
Choose between private practice, hospital posts, academic posts, specialty training, or NHS primary care. The next admin step depends on this choice.
For NHS primary care, complete performers list steps
In England and Wales, dentists who want to provide NHS primary care need the appropriate performers list route.
Current Costs
| Item | Current fee | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| ORE application processing fee | £96 | Payable before you can download the full ORE application. |
| ORE Part 1 | £584 | Held at King's College London. |
| ORE Part 2 | £4,235 | Main practical / clinical stage fee. |
| Medical emergencies retake | £566 | Only if required. |
| GDC registration application fee | £117.23 | For dentists with a recognised overseas diploma, relevant European diploma, or who passed ORE. |
| 2026 annual retention fee (dentist) | £698 | Needed to remain on the register. |
Simple cost estimator
Not included in the fixed official fees above
- IELTS or OET fees
- Travel and accommodation for exams
- Visa and immigration costs
- Indemnity cover
- DBS checks and occupational health checks for NHS routes
- Foundation training equivalence or competence-assessment costs
Certificate Verification & Registration Checks
What usually gets checked
- Identity and passport details
- Primary dental qualification
- Certificates of good standing / current professional status
- English language evidence
- Exam results if using ORE or LDS
- Any route-specific supporting documents
Common delay points
- Name mismatch across passport and degree
- Missing good-standing certificates
- Qualification not actually on the recognised list
- Assuming NHS practice is automatic after GDC registration
- Waiting too long to book ORE places
English Language Requirements
Main principle
The GDC must be satisfied that applicants have the necessary knowledge of English before registration.
Typical evidence
- Accepted language test evidence such as IELTS or OET
- Or other evidence accepted by the GDC under its guidance
- Evidence must support safe communication in practice
Practical advice
- Do not assume English-medium study always removes the requirement
- Read the current GDC guidance before booking a test
- Keep score validity dates in mind
NHS Practice: What Happens After GDC Registration?
England and Wales
Dentists who want to provide NHS primary care in England and Wales usually need to join the Dental Performers List. Applicants must generally show one of the following:
- A Foundation Training number and certificate
- Exemption because of previous EU practice and registration
- Equivalence to foundation training through the competence assessment route
Hospital and secondary care
In England, dentists working in secondary care are not required to be on the Dental Performers List. That can make hospital, teaching, research, and some supervised posts a more realistic first UK step for some overseas dentists.
Typical NHS primary-care checklist
Visa Basics
Most common work route
Overseas dentists coming to the UK for employment often use the Skilled Worker or Health and Care visa route, depending on the employer and role.
- You need a licensed sponsor
- The job must be on the eligible occupations list
- The role must meet the current skill and salary rules
Practical note
Visa eligibility does not replace professional registration. You usually need both: the right to work and the right to practise.
- Get employer sponsorship details early
- Check whether the role is NHS, private, or academic
- Do not resign from your current job before both routes are clear