ADC Exam Registration 2026 — Step-by-Step Application Guide

Registering for the ADC exam is a multi-stage process through ADC Connect — the Australian Dental Council's online portal. Each stage has its own application period, fee, and documentation requirements. Here is every step from creating your account to booking your exam seat.

The ADC pathway: three stages

The ADC assessment process has three sequential stages. You cannot skip stages — each must be completed before you can apply for the next. The entire process, from first application to AHPRA registration, typically takes 18 to 24 months for candidates who pass on their first attempt.

Step 1: create your ADC Connect account

Go to adc.org.au and create a new ADC Connect account. This is the portal through which all applications, document uploads, payments, and correspondence with the ADC happen. You will use this account throughout your entire ADC journey.

Use a professional email address you check regularly — the ADC communicates exclusively through ADC Connect and the email linked to your account. Missing a notification can mean missing an application window.

Step 2: submit your initial assessment

Once your account is created, start a new initial assessment application. Upload all required documents (dental degree, transcript, registration certificate, letter of good standing, passport, photo). Pay the AUD $647 fee. The ADC aims to process applications within 8 weeks.

You can submit your initial assessment at any time — there is no fixed application period for this stage. However, your assessment must be complete before the application deadline for the Written Exam sitting you want to attend. Check the exam dates page for specific deadlines.

Step 3: apply for the Written Exam

Once your initial assessment is approved, you can apply for the Written Exam during the next published application period. Application periods are short. For the September 2026 sitting, the application period was 9–16 June 2026 and is closed. For a future sitting, rely on the application notice in ADC Connect rather than a previous cycle's timing.

After you apply, follow the location and booking instructions shown in ADC Connect. Available locations and appointment capacity are specific to each examination period, so do not rely on a previous sitting or on an unofficial centre list.

The Written Exam fee is approximately AUD $2,122 for dentists. This fee covers both days of the examination. See the full cost breakdown for all fees.

Step 4: sit the Written Exam at Pearson VUE

On exam day, arrive at your Pearson VUE centre with your Candidate Admission Letter (downloaded from ADC Connect) and valid photo identification matching the name on your ADC application. The exam runs over two consecutive days — four papers of 70 questions, 2 hours each.

Results are released approximately 6 weeks after the exam via ADC Connect. You will receive a pass or fail notification. The ADC does not publish individual scores or percentile rankings.

Step 5: apply for the Practical Exam

After passing the Written Exam, apply for the Practical Examination during the next application period. The Practical Exam is held in Melbourne, Australia — you must travel there. Applications are submitted via ADC Connect, and date assignment works through a selection process.

The Practical Exam fee is approximately AUD $4,775. Budget an additional AUD $2,600–$5,600 for flights, accommodation, and living expenses in Melbourne.

Step 6: AHPRA registration

After passing both the Written and Practical Exams, you receive an ADC Certificate via ADC Connect (~6 weeks after the Practical). This certificate makes you eligible to apply for general registration with the Dental Board of Australia through AHPRA. Once registered, you can legally practise dentistry in Australia.

Frequently asked questions