FAQ on name change and licensing
Changing one’s name due
to marriage or other reasons can lead to confusion for both
dentists and patients. Keep in mind that whatever name you elect to
use personally or professionally, ensure that the proper name is
used on all pertinent documents. This means you need to check your
Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) number, state drug license,
malpractice insurance policy, employer identification number,
etc.
The following are some frequently asked questions about the
impact of changing your name, according to the
ADA Center for Professional Success.
Q: If I have a change of name, say as a result of a
marriage, may I go by my new name professionally?
A: Yes. Many dentists who change their name (as a result of
marriage or other circumstance) use their new name professionally.
However, some dentists who change their name as a result of
marriage choose to use their new name personally, but continue to
practice using their pre-marital name, to maintain familiarity with
patients. This is a personal decision.
Q: What do I need to do if I choose to use my new name
in the professional setting?
A: If you decide to go by your new name professionally, you
should change your previous name to your new name on all relevant
documents and across all relevant institutions. This includes
changing your name on your insurance, with the Drug Enforcement
Administration, on all paperwork associated with your dental
practice, and your dental license.
Q: If I legally change my name, am I required to change
the name on my license?
A: Maybe. Your state dental board may or may not require you to
change your license name if you have a legal name change. (As noted
above, some dentists may choose to retain the name they had been
using professionally). However, some state dental boards do require
you to inform the board of your legal name change and to do so
within a certain time frame, such as 60 days, of such change. This
is to maintain accurate contact information for the board. It is
best to check with your state dental board to verify their
requirements.
Q: What is the process for changing my name on my
license?
A: State dental board processes vary, but generally include:
- A requirement to submit a name change request to the state
dental board - Legal documentation to show the name change (e.g. a marriage
license, divorce decree, or court order showing the name
change) - A small fee to receive a new wall license
In addition, some states will require you to return your current
license.
Q: Whom do I contact if I have further
questions?
A: Always contact your state dental board if you have any
questions about licensing-related issues.
Resources
DEA registration update request form
Changing my name was exhausting, but right for me [ADA New
Dentist Now blog]
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