Colorado · Updated 2026
Become a dental assistant in Colorado in about 13 weeks.
Honest, independent answers about Colorado programs, costs, x-ray rules, pay and jobs. Then get matched with a program that fits your schedule.
- 10–13
- weeks, typical
- $3.2k+
- typical tuition
- 0
- state licenses required
Colorado rule
No state license for assistants, but x-rays need approved training.
The trail
Four switchbacks from “curious” to “hired.”
Step 1
Pick a program
Colorado programs run about 10–13 weeks, many on weekends or evenings so you can keep your job.
Step 2
Get x-ray qualified
Colorado requires approved radiography training (or DANB RHS) before you take x-rays.
Step 3
Train chairside
Hands-on clinical hours and an externship are what employers look for.
Step 4
Get hired
Colorado doesn't license dental assistants, so skills and references get you hired.
60-second match
Which Colorado program fits your life?
Answer four quick questions about timing, schedule and budget. We'll show you the programs worth a call and the questions to ask them.
- Free and independent
- No obligation
- Weekend and evening options
When would you like to start training?
Side by side
Colorado programs, compared
| School | Where | Length | Schedule | Tuition* |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Colorado Springs Dental Assistant School | Colorado Springs | 12 weeks | Saturdays | From $3,350 |
| Colorado Dental Assisting School | Aurora (Denver), Colorado Springs | 10 weeks | Saturdays or Tue/Thu evenings | $3,995 (Colorado Springs) |
| Denver Dental Assistant School | Denver | See school | Weekend format (see school) | $3,250 paid in full |
| Academy for Dental Assisting Careers | Longmont, Greeley | 8 weeks | Hybrid online + hands-on in dental practices | Ask the school |
| Pima Medical Institute (Dental Assistant certificate) | Denver, Aurora, Colorado Springs | About 9 months | Campus-based, includes externship | Ask the school (financial aid available) |
| Concorde Career College (Dental Assistant) | Denver | As little as 8–9 months | Campus-based (Denver campus, formerly Aurora) | Ask the school (financial aid available) |
*As listed on each school's website, checked September 2026. Confirm with the school before enrolling.
For assistants
Colorado dental assistant jobs
New openings from Colorado Springs to Fort Collins, with pay listed up front.
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Hire an assistantStraight-talk guides
All guidesCareers
How to Become a Dental Assistant in Colorado Without Going to School
Colorado doesn't require a diploma to work as a dental assistant, so on-the-job training is possible. How it works, the x-ray catch, and when school is still the better bet.
2 min read
Schools & Cost
Can You Become a Dental Assistant Online?
Partly. You can learn the theory online, but dental assisting is hands-on work, and Colorado's x-ray rule needs clinical practice. How hybrid programs work and what to watch for.
2 min read
Schools & Cost
How to Choose a Dental Assisting School That's Right for You
What to check before you pay a deposit: state approval, radiography, hands-on hours, total cost, schedule, refund policy and whether graduates actually get hired.
3 min read
Quick answers
Do you need a license to be a dental assistant in Colorado?+
No. Colorado doesn't license or register dental assistants. The Colorado Dental Board regulates which tasks assistants may perform under a dentist's supervision. Taking x-rays requires approved radiography training or passing the DANB RHS exam.
How long does dental assistant training take in Colorado?+
Most private Colorado programs take about 10 to 13 weeks, often on weekends or evenings. College certificate programs usually take 9 to 12 months.
How much does a dental assistant program cost in Colorado?+
Private Colorado programs we reviewed list tuition from about $3,250 to $4,000, and some programs have historically charged closer to $6,000. Always ask what's included: radiography, CPR/BLS, scrubs, and exam fees.
Is DentalAssistantCO a school?+
No. We're an independent guide. We compare programs, publish salary and requirement data, and connect people with schools and employers.
Still have questions? Call (512) 766-6445.