SDLE General Dental Exam: Complete Guide for Saudi Dental Licensing
The Saudi Dental Licensing Exam (SDLE) is a crucial step for dentists aiming to practice in Saudi Arabia. More than just a test, it measures your clinical judgment, diagnostic accuracy, and readiness to provide quality oral healthcare under the Saudi Commission for Health Specialties (SCFHS) standards.
This guide explains who can apply, how to register, required documents, exam structure, and preparation strategy — everything you need to pass the SDLE on your first attempt.
What is the SDLE?
The Saudi Dental Licensing Exam (SDLE) is a mandatory assessment for all dental professionals—both local and international—who wish to obtain a professional license to work in Saudi Arabia.
The exam ensures every dentist practicing in the Kingdom possesses the necessary clinical knowledge, ethical standards, and professional competence to serve patients effectively.
Eligibility Criteria for the SDLE
- Hold a BDS, DDS, or DMD degree from an accredited dental school.
- Have completed one full year of internship.
- Possess at least two years of clinical experience after internship.
The two-year experience period starts from the date of your degree or license registration—whichever comes later.
How to Apply for the SDLE
Step 1 – Complete DataFlow Verification
Start by verifying your academic and professional credentials through the DataFlow Group. This process ensures all documents are authentic and valid.
Step 2 – Register on Mumaris Plus
Create an account on Mumaris Plus, the official SCFHS platform for healthcare professionals. Once your profile is verified, proceed to apply for the SDLE.
Step 3 – Apply for Eligibility ID
After DataFlow verification, you must obtain an Eligibility ID, which allows you to book your exam at Prometric centers.
💡 Not confident with online applications? You can delegate the process to a licensed agent while focusing on your preparation.
SDLE Fees (in SAR and USD)
| Process | Fees (SAR) | Approx. USD |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Source Verification | 900 | $240 |
| Extra Document (if applicable) | 350 | $90 |
| Credentials Evaluation | 250 | $65 |
| Eligibility ID | 1,000 | $270 |
| Prometric Exam | 850 | $225 |
Processing Timeline
| Stage | Duration |
|---|---|
| DataFlow Verification | 35–45 days |
| Credential Evaluation | Around 2 weeks |
| Eligibility ID Approval | Up to 3 months |
| Prometric Exam | As per available schedule |
| Result Declaration | Within 5 working days |
Documents Required for SDLE
- Bachelor’s degree (BDS/DMD/DDS)
- Official academic transcripts
- Internship completion certificate
- Two years of post-internship experience certificate
- Valid dental license or registration
- Good Standing Certificate (issued within last 3 months)
- Passport copy
- Passport-size photograph with white background
Exam Pattern and Structure
The SDLE is a theory-only, computer-based test (CBT) with no practical component. It’s conducted at Prometric test centers located globally.
- 3 sections, each containing 100 MCQs
- 2 hours per section (6 hours total)
- 45-minute break between sections
- Single-day exam
Questions are based on clinical cases requiring diagnostic reasoning and treatment planning rather than pure theoretical recall.
SDLE Syllabus and Weightage
| Subject | Weight (%) |
|---|---|
| Endodontics | 17% |
| Prosthodontics & Operative Dentistry | 40% |
| Orthodontics & Pedodontics | 10% |
| Periodontics | 15% |
| Oral Medicine & Surgery | 15% |
How to Prepare for the SDLE
Preparing for the SDLE doesn’t mean revisiting every dental book. Smart preparation focuses on concept-based learning and clinical reasoning.
5-Step SDLE Preparation Strategy
- Revise Key Topics: Go through concise, subject-wise notes.
- Practice MCQs: Solve topic-specific question banks daily.
- Clarify Weak Areas: Read short summaries or watch explanatory videos.
- Attempt Recent MCQs: Learn question patterns and logic.
- Take Mock Tests: Simulate exam conditions to track your readiness.
A 3–4 month focused preparation plan with daily study of 3–4 hours can significantly boost your success rate.
Passing Score and Results
To pass, you must score at least 60% — that’s 180 correct answers out of 300.
Results appear instantly after submission, and the SCFHS issues an official Eligibility Letter confirming your success.
Result Validity
Your SDLE result and eligibility letter remain valid for three years from the date of issue. This allows you to apply for jobs and finalize licensing within that period.
What If You Fail the Exam?
You can reattempt the SDLE up to three times in total. Before rebooking, renew your credential verification and review your weak topics for better results.
After Passing the SDLE
Once you receive your eligibility letter, you can apply for dental positions in Saudi Arabia. Your employer will then convert this letter into a professional license.
Additional documents you may need:
- Basic Life Support (BLS) Certificate
- Hepatitis B & COVID-19 vaccination reports
- Attested copy of your dental degree
Conclusion
Passing the Saudi Dental Licensing Exam (SDLE) marks the beginning of a rewarding dental career in one of the Gulf’s most advanced healthcare systems. With the right preparation strategy and resources, clearing it on your first attempt is absolutely achievable.
At DentQuiz, we provide expert-curated MCQs, topic-wise study plans, and mock exams that help you study smarter — not harder.
🎓 Your SDLE success starts with focused preparation and the right guidance.
