Many overseas-trained dentists aim to practise in Australia. The Australian Dental Council exam (ADC Australia exam) is the key step. To plan well, you need to know “when” and “how” to register. ADC exam dates 2026 determine your study schedule. Missing deadlines delays your career start. This guide gives you actual dates, explains the ADC exam registration process, and points to best ADC coaching in Australia to help you succeed.

Key Components of ADC Examination Process

The ADC dentist assessment has three main stages:

• Initial Assessment – check eligible qualifications and documents.
• Written Examination – theory and judgment test delivered twice a year.
• Practical Examination – clinical skills test after written exam success.

You must complete Initial Assessment before you apply for the Written Exam. Practical Exam requires successful Written result.

2026 Exam Periods: Written Exam Key Dates

Here are the confirmed published dates for the Written Examination for 2026 (ADC exam Australia registration windows):

These dates are for dentists’ written exams. Make sure your initial assessment is valid past the exam date.

Practical Examination Dates 2026

After you clear the Written Exam, you move to Practical. These are the 2026 practical exam windows:

You choose your preferred date during date selection period after application. Be aware local availability may vary.

Step-by-Step Guide: ADC Exam Registration Process

Below are the steps to follow so you can register successfully:

Initial Assessment
Create an ADC Connect account.
Hold a minimum 4-year, full-time dental degree or diploma.
Upload required documents: degree, transcripts, photo ID, internship evidence.
Await outcome (~8 weeks) before written exam application. Application may be valid for 7 years.
Written Examination Application
Make sure the initial assessment is valid and complete.
Watch for the application period (see table above). Fill in online via ADC Connect.
Pay fees and confirm seat. You will receive Authorisation to Test from Pearson VUE.
Practical Examination Application
Pass written exam. Be eligible per ADC rules.
Apply in the correct application period corresponding to a Practical Period (see table).
During date selection period, pick preferred clinical exam dates. Confirm via ADC Connect.
Exam Day & Results
For written examination, attend both two full days as scheduled. Bring ID.
Results are published via ADC Connect. Validity details matter (written exam validity ~3 years)

Common Pitfalls & Preparation Tips

Avoiding delays and rejections depends on good preparation. Here are tips:
Ensure your documents are clear, correctly translated, and meet format requirements.
Check degree recognition in ADC’s lists. If unsure, contact ADC early through their help centre.
Do not wait for the last day of the application period. Servers may be slow, uploads may fail.
Use mock exams and past questions to simulate written exam.
For practical purposes, try clinical settings or labs to build hands-on skills.
Also, look for the best ADC coaching in Australia if you want structured help. Coaching helps many candidates pass on try one.
Role of Coaching & Choosing Best ADC Coaching Australia

Many candidates benefit from structured learning. Here is a list of things that good coaching does for you:
Clarifies exam format and weight of topics
Provides regular mock papers and feedback
Helps with time-management and exam techniques
Offers peer support and 1:1 doubt clearing
ADC simulated preparations
When picking a coaching provider, consider:
Success rate of past candidates
Access to both theory and practical preparation
Flexible schedules and online support
Cost vs value
You want best ADC coaching in Australia that aligns with your style and budget.
Additional Requirements & Fees
The written exam fee is ~ AUD 2,122 for dentists.
Practical exam fee ~ AUD 4,775.
Initial assessment fee ~ AUD 647 (or renewal fees for existing candidates)
Validity: initial assessment valid for 7 years; written exam pass valid ~3 years.  
Budget for travel and lodging if the exam centre is far. Plan finances early.
Checklist: Before You Hit Submit
Register ADC Connect and verify credentials
Upload all educational and ID documents clearly
Check that your initial assessment deadline suits your target exam period
Note the application window and mark checklist dates
Confirm exam dates and venue info when applying with Pearson VUE
Practice both written multiple choice and scenario questions
Simulate the practical exam if possible
Conclusion: Planning well with Winspert
The ADC dental exam demands strong efforts, clear planning, and timely action. Sum it up:
Start initial assessment early
Observe deadlines closely
Prepare both theory and clinical skills
Use credible coaching if needed
If you want structured help, Winspert offers expert guidance aligned with official ADC exam Australia registration requirements. We cover theory, practical skills, mock tests, and offer full support during exam application times. With proper preparation and reliable advice, you can approach the ADC dental exam with confidence and succeed.