Member Overview
Becoming a Member of the Royal Australasian College of Dental Surgeons (RACDS) is a defining step in your professional journey. It not only recognises your dedication to dental excellence but also establishes a strong foundation for lifelong learning, professional recognition and a chance to contribute meaningfully to improving patient outcomes and the future of dentistry.
RACDS Member Options
RACDS Membership for specialists and general practitioners offers three pathways tailored to your career stage and expertise:
Member in Primary Dental Sciences
For early-career dentists to establish a foundation in the core sciences.
Member in General Dental Practice
For general dentists seeking evidence-based clinical excellence.
Member in Specialist Dental Practice
For dental specialists demonstrating solid expertise in their chosen field.
Find out more about the pathways to Membership below.
Pathways for Admission to Membership
RACDS offers multiple pathways to Membership, allowing you to advance your career through further education and training. To be eligible to apply for Membership you must have successfully completed the requirements for each pathway. Explore the options below to find the pathway that suits your goals or click here to view the pathways flowchart.
If you would like to speak to someone about these pathways please contact us at [email protected].
- Pathway: By examination (Primary Sciences Dental Examination)
Complete the Primary Dental Sciences Examination to showcase your knowledge in core sciences and set a solid foundation for your dental career. This examination is highly desirable for a number of Specialist Training Programs.
The RACDS also offers an exemption from the Primary Sciences Dental Examination, enabling you to fast-track your eligibility for the Fellowship Examination (GDP). Learn more.
Pathway: By program (MRACDS(GDP) Program)
Enrol in the MRACDS(GDP) Program to gain structured, evidence-based training in general dentistry while advancing your clinical skills and professional development.
- Pathway 1: By qualifications (Qualifications Pathway)
Use recognised qualifications to gain Membership in your specialty. - Pathway 2: By examination (Membership Examination in Specialist Dental Practice)
Complete the Membership Examination in Specialist Dental Practice to demonstrate expertise in your chosen specialty. - Pathway 3: By conjoint examination (Conjoint Examination)
Sit a single examination with either the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh or the College of Dental Surgeons of Hong Kong and gain Membership with both RACDS and the respective College in select disciplines.
For information on the specialities recognised by the RACDS click here.
Member Benefits
RACDS Membership offers tailored benefits designed to support your professional growth, enhance your career opportunities, and connect you with a network of esteemed dental professionals. Access to these exclusive benefits requires the ongoing payment of an annual fee. View College Fees.
Career Advancement
- Access exclusive job opportunities on the RACDS Jobs Board
- Enhance your career prospects and employment opportunities with Membership recognition
- Feature your practice in the Find a Dentist directory to expand patient outreach
Professional Development
- Access continuing professional development (CPD) and eLearning resources
- Master your skills with CPD masterclasses
- Use tools like ClinicalKey to deepen your expertise
Networking and Events
- Build meaningful connections at exclusive networking events
- Connect with a global network of like-minded professionals
- Join closed Facebook groups to collaborate and share insights
- Participate as a speaker or attendee at signature events like The Fine Edge of Dentistry Conference
Recognition and Prestige
- Display prestigious post-nominals, signifying your professional standing
- Gain industry recognition as a skilled and highly competent practitioner.
- Showcase your affiliation with the RACDS through a Membership banner
- Receive a Testamur
Involvement and Impact
- Contribute to the profession by participating in RACDS Committees
- Nominate for leadership roles, such as the Board of Directors
- Exercise full voting rights as a Member
- Make a difference through volunteering opportunities with RACDS
Resources and Publications
- Access exclusive discounts and member prices
- Stay informed with regular publications and the latest updates via the College newsletter
- Browse and shop for RACDS merchandise
- List your job vacancies or clinic sales on the RACDS Jobs Board
- Access to CPD Tracker
Admission and Approval Process
Candidates who have met the criteria for Membership initiate applications by completing the Admission to Membership or Fellowship Application Form. The timeframe for an application to be approved after the initial assessment by the College is at the next Board of Directors meeting (held quarterly). Typically, this process will take 6 to 8 weeks.
Membership is not granted automatically after the completion of a program or exam, you must apply.
The College will notify individuals who are eligible to apply for admission to Membership following the completion of the relevant pathway requirements. There will be a link in the eligibility letter to the online admission form or it can be accessed here. An admission fee is due upon submission to cover the administration of your application.
The process below outlines the approval and admission of a Member.
1. Successful completion of pathway requirements.
2. Complete the Admission to Membership or Fellowship Application Form and pay the admission fee.
3. Application is processed, and the Board of Directors confers admission application (at the next quarterly meeting).
4. RACDS issues documents verifying Membership and Annual Fee invoice (pro rata).
5. Applicant pays RACDS Annual Fee (yearly payment) to finalise Membership application.
6. Membership confirmed, and applicant receives Testamur and access to Membership benefits. Please note that display of designated post-nominal, Testamur and access to other benefits requires the ongoing payment of an Annual Fee.
Induction Ceremony
Every two years, during the prestigious Fine Edge of Dentistry Conference, the Royal Australasian College of Dental Surgeons (RACDS) holds its official Induction Ceremony. This significant event offers newly admitted Fellows and Members the distinguished honour of being formally presented to the President in the presence of peers, family, and friends. It is a memorable occasion that celebrates your accomplishments and marks a pivotal milestone in your professional journey.
Following the ceremony, the President’s Welcome Reception provides an esteemed setting to further acknowledge your achievements and engage with fellow professionals.
We invite you to partake in this momentous event as you join the ranks of leaders shaping the future of dentistry. Contact us to learn more about the Induction Ceremony.
Invest in your professional growth and enjoy exclusive benefits by becoming a Member of the Royal Australasian College of Dental Surgeons (RACDS).
Membership requires an annual fee to maintain access to the full range of benefits, including your designated post nominal, Testamur, professional development resources, and recognition as a Member of the College.
For detailed information about fees associated with annual membership and other RACDS programs, please visit our College Fees page.
Still have questions? Find everything you need to know on our comprehensive Membership FAQs page.
Discover answers to common questions such as:
- Who is eligible for Membership?
- What benefits do Members receive?
- How do I apply, and what are the pathways to Membership?
- What are the costs and requirements for maintaining Membership?
Achieving Fellowship with the Royal Australasian College of Dental Surgeons (RACDS) is a prestigious accomplishment, recognising your expertise, dedication, and leadership in the dental profession.
You can take the next step toward Fellowship in either General Dental Practice or Specialist Dental Practice. This journey reflects your commitment to advancing clinical excellence, lifelong learning, and the highest standards of patient care.
Fellowship not only signifies professional excellence but also offers opportunities for greater involvement in the dental community, including leadership roles within RACDS and mentorship of future dental professionals.
Learn more about the pathways to Fellowship and how to get started here.