DAT Exam Dates 2026: Scheduling and Registration Guide

Updated: October 14, 2026

DAT Exam Dates 2026 – Plan Your Test Early

Planning ahead is key to getting the best DAT test date for your schedule. The Dental Admission Test (DAT) is offered year-round, but appointment schedules can fill up.

Below are general DAT scheduling guidelines and planning recommendations.

Important DAT Scheduling Notes

You must obtain a DENTPIN® before applying for the DAT. If you already have a DENTPIN, use your existing number.
- Obtain or retrieve your DENTPIN here
DAT registration is done through the ADA (American Dental Association).
- Register for the DAT here
  
  After submitting your DAT application, wait for eligibility confirmation from the ADA Department of Testing Services by email. Once your eligibility is confirmed, contact Prometric to schedule your testing appointment.
Schedule early to improve your chances of obtaining your preferred test date and location.

2026 DAT Test Date Guide

This table provides general planning suggestions, not official test dates or registration deadlines. Appointment availability depends on the testing center and date. The ADA recommends submitting your application 60–90 days before you intend to take the DAT.

Month	Suggested Application Timing	Notes
January – February	November – December 2025	Check availability at your preferred testing center.
March – April	January – February	Ideal for spring testers
May – June	March – April	Apply and schedule ahead for your preferred date.
July – August	May – June	Check availability early for your preferred date.
September – October	July – August	Availability depends on the testing center and date.
November – December	September – October	Good time to test before year ends

Pro Tip: Avoid Expensive Rescheduling Fees

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Frequently Asked Questions About DAT Dates

When should I register for the DAT?

It’s best to register for the DAT at least two to three months before your preferred test date. Appointment schedules can fill up. Registering early gives you more flexibility to choose a convenient date and location.

How often can I take the DAT?

The American Dental Association (ADA) allows you to take the DAT up to three times without special permission. Candidates must wait 60 days between attempts, with a maximum of four administrations during any 12-month period. After three attempts, you must apply for permission to test again and provide proof of a recent dental-school application with each subsequent application to test. After the fifth attempt, you may retest only once per 12-month period. Keep these limits in mind when selecting your DAT dates and preparing for your first attempt.

Can I reschedule my DAT test date?

Yes. You can reschedule your DAT test date through the Prometric website, but fees apply depending on how close you are to the exam.

30 or more business days before your appointment: $50 rescheduling fee
5–29 business days before your appointment: $70 rescheduling fee
1–4 business days before your appointment: $150 rescheduling fee
Planning ahead helps you avoid unnecessary costs.

Saturday and Sunday are not business days. These base fees are subject to change, and sales tax may apply. You must cancel or reschedule by the business day before your appointment and at least 24 hours before its scheduled start time. Both requirements apply. If you do not appear and have not canceled or rescheduled by the required deadline, you will forfeit all testing fees and must submit a new application and payment to schedule another appointment.

What’s the best time of year to take the DAT?

The ADA recommends taking the DAT in the spring of your junior year or the summer between your junior and senior years, after completing the subjects covered by the test, especially organic chemistry. Allow for the required 60-day wait between attempts if a retake becomes necessary, and check each dental school’s deadlines. However, the best DAT dates depend on your own schedule and level of preparation.

Are DAT dates available year-round?

Yes, the DAT is offered year-round at Prometric testing centers. You aren’t limited to certain months. That flexibility means you can choose dates that align with your study plan, school schedule, or other commitments.

How do DAT dates impact my dental school application?

Dental-school application deadlines and review schedules vary by program. Check each school’s requirements for receiving DAT scores, and choose a test date that allows your scores to arrive within its required timeline. If you take the DAT later in the summer or fall, your application may become complete later in the cycle.

How far in advance should I start studying before my DAT date?

A 2–4-month study period can serve as a planning starting point, but the time you need depends on your science foundation and readiness. Non-traditional students or those who have been away from the sciences may need extra time. The key is to select a DAT date that matches your readiness — not just the calendar.

What if my preferred DAT date is not available?

Seats can fill quickly at popular testing centers. If your first choice DAT date isn’t available, consider:

Expanding your search radius to nearby testing centers.
Looking at weekday dates instead of weekends.
Scheduling a slightly earlier date if you’re already prepared.

💡 Final Tip: When planning your DAT dates, think beyond just test day. Build in enough prep time, apply early in the cycle, and make sure your chosen date aligns with your overall dental school timeline.

💥 Next Step in Your DAT Prep
Knowing your test date is just the first step. The real key is preparing with trusted resources. Since its first publication in 2006, students have used Dr. Jim Romano’s DAT Destroyer to master Biology, General Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, and Math — and to walk into test day with confidence.

👉 Explore the DAT Destroyer Study Guide and join our free DAT Study Group . You’ll also find free videos and updates on our YouTube Channel.