The Kingdom of Bahrain has built one of the most progressive healthcare systems in the Gulf, and it safeguards its standards through the National Health Regulatory Authority (NHRA) β the body responsible for licensing all health professionals practising in Bahrain under Law No. 38 of 2009. For dentists, passing the Bahrain Dental Licensure Examination (BDLE) is the essential gateway to obtaining a professional dental licence.
The BDLE is a Prometric computer-based test covering the full spectrum of general dentistry. This guide is built directly from official NHRA documents β the Dentist Professional Qualification Requirements (PQR, April 2021 version 2) and the NHRA Licensure Examination 2022 booklet β to give you the most accurate, verified information available.
π Official Authority
National Health Regulatory Authority (NHRA), Kingdom of Bahrain Β· Established by Law No. 38 of 2009 Β· Website: nhra.bh Β· Dental email: dental@nhra.bh Β· Dental phone: +973 17113329 Β· Main phone: +973 17 113 333 Β· Licensing portal: mehan.nhra.bh Β· Address: Al Khair Tower 2, Building 612, Road 1011, Block 410, Sanabis, Manama Β· Working hours: 8 AM to 3 PM
What Is the NHRA Dental Exam (BDLE)?
The BDLE (Bahrain Dental Licensure Examination) is the mandatory licensing examination that dentists must pass as one of the requirements to obtain a professional dental practice licence in the Kingdom of Bahrain. It is administered by NHRA and delivered via Prometric Testing Centres.
- βMandatory for Dental Practitioners: Listed among the 42 professions in Bahrain currently required to pass the NHRA licensure examination. Any exam attempted without NHRA approval will not be accepted
- βComputer-based, Prometric-administered: Available at Prometric Testing Centres globally β candidates do not need to be in Bahrain to sit the theory exam
- βOne licence covers all of Bahrain: The NHRA dental licence is valid to practise anywhere in the Kingdom of Bahrain
- βEligibility code system: Candidates must receive an eligibility code through the MEHAN portal after licence application approval β without this code, you cannot register for the Prometric exam
βDentists are required to pass NHRA's BLE in order to obtain the professional license in the Kingdom of Bahrain. For Medical and Dental practitioners, exams done before or during Internship will not be accepted.β
β NHRA Official Licensure Examination 2022 Booklet & Dentist PQR April 2021 β nhra.bhBDLE Exam Format β Official NHRA Data
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Type | Computer-Based Test (CBT) β Prometric Testing Centres (global) |
| Number of Questions | 150 MCQs (single best answer format) |
| Duration | 3 hours (180 minutes) |
| Pass Score | 60% β confirmed in official NHRA Licensure Examination 2022 booklet |
| Negative Marking | None |
| Score Reports | Available immediately after completing the exam at the Prometric centre |
| Language | English β generic names used for all materials and drugs (no brand names) |
| Eligibility Code | Required β single-use only per attempt; generated via MEHAN portal after approval |
| Maximum Attempts | 4 attempts within 3 years + 2 more after retraining = 6 total |
| Registration Portal | NHRA MEHAN system β mehan.nhra.bh |
| Exam validity note | Prometric examination results pre-dating NHRA instructions will not be accepted; exams done before or during internship will not be accepted |
π‘ Note on Pass Score
The official NHRA Licensure Examination 2022 booklet states: βThe pass mark for all other professions is set at 60%.β It also notes: βif prometric was taken from another center the pass mark will be taken according to that center.β This means if your Prometric exam is taken at a centre under a different health authority (e.g., previously for DHA), the pass mark applicable to that authority may apply.
NHRA Dental Exam Eligibility 2026
For Non-Bahraini / Foreign-Trained Dentists
- βBDS, DMD, DDS, or equivalent dental degree from a recognised institution β must be listed in the World Directory of Medical/Dental Schools
- βSuccessful completion of 12 months internship post-graduation (in a university-affiliated/accredited educational hospital or centre)
- β5 years of post-qualification clinical experience β must be relevant to the category applied for, in a setting licensed by the professional regulatory authority of the country of practice
- βMust be no more than 65 years of age (non-Bahrainis)
- βValid professional licence and Certificate of Good Standing from home country/last employment (not older than 6 months at time of application)
- βPrimary Source Verification (PSV) via DataFlow
For Bahraini Nationals
- βBahraini new graduates are exempted from experience requirements for the basic entry level
- βBahraini or GCC nationals holding a valid GCC Licence are exempt from the BDLE entirely
- βBahraini nationals can apply without employer invitation β via direct application on MEHAN
π§π BDLE Exemption Policy (Official)
Per the official NHRA Dentist PQR (April 2021): βOnly Bahraini or GCC nationals who hold a valid GCC License will be exempted from the licensure examination.β All other applicants β including dentists with licences from UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia (without valid GCC licence status) or other countries β must sit and pass the BDLE.
β οΈ Important Eligibility Rules
1. Exams done before or during internship will not be accepted by NHRA. 2. Qualifications through honorary nature, correspondence, or online distance learning are not counted. 3. Non-Bahrainis must fulfil all required post-qualification experience prior to applying for a licence. 4. The applicant must declare no legal cases, medical malpractice, or pending investigations. 5. Dental schools must be listed in the World Directory of Medical/Dental Schools.
BDLE Exam Attempts Policy β From Official NHRA Documents
The NHRA has a clearly defined attempts policy for the BDLE, officially confirmed in the Dentist PQR (April 2021) and the Licensure Examination 2022 booklet:
1β4
First 4 Attempts
4 consecutive attempts within a maximum of 3 years from the date of the first attempt. Each attempt requires a separate eligibility code from MEHAN.
6 months
Mandatory Retraining
If the dentist fails all 4 attempts, a minimum 6-month retraining period in a licensed healthcare facility in Bahrain is required. Proof of completion must be submitted.
5β6
Post-Retraining Attempts
2 more consecutive attempts permitted within 2 years from the date of completion of retraining. Total maximum: 6 attempts over the full process.
| Stage | Details (Official NHRA PQR) |
|---|---|
| Attempts 1β4 | 4 consecutive attempts, maximum 3 years from first attempt |
| If fail attempt 4 | Minimum 6-month retraining in a licensed Bahrain healthcare facility |
| Attempts 5β6 | 2 more attempts within 2 years from completion of retraining |
| Total maximum | 6 attempts (4 + 2 post-retraining) |
| Eligibility code | Each attempt: separate eligibility code from MEHAN (single use only) |
β οΈ Retraining Note β Non-Bahrainis
The official NHRA Licensure Examination 2022 booklet notes that points 2β3 (retraining in Bahrain facility and subsequent 2 attempts) are for Bahrainis only. This means non-Bahraini dentists who exhaust their initial 4 attempts may have different pathways β always confirm directly with NHRA at dental@nhra.bh for the current policy applicable to your nationality.
NHRA Dental Exam Syllabus β Full Coverage
The BDLE covers the entire undergraduate dental curriculum with a strong emphasis on clinical application. Questions are presented as clinical case-based MCQs β assessing diagnosis, treatment planning, and management decisions. The exam uses generic names only for all materials and drugs β no brand names are used.
Clinical Dental Sciences (Majority of Exam)
| Subject | Key Clinical Topics | Relative Weight |
|---|---|---|
| Operative & Restorative Dentistry | Caries classification (GV Black), cavity design, composite/amalgam restorations, tooth preparation, caries management, adhesive dentistry, CAD/CAM basics | High |
| Endodontics | Pulpal diagnosis (AAP classification), access cavity design, RCT procedures, dental trauma (permanent + primary), vital pulp therapy, periapical diagnosis | High |
| Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery | Local anaesthesia nerve blocks, tooth extractions, impacted wisdom teeth, post-operative complications, dental implant basics, medical emergencies | High |
| Prosthodontics | Fixed prosthetics (crown/bridge), removable partial dentures (Kennedy classification), complete dentures, occlusion, implant-supported prostheses | High |
| Periodontics | 2017 AAP/EFP periodontal classification, Phase I therapy, surgical periodontics, systemic-periodontal links, maintenance protocols | High |
| Paediatric Dentistry | Primary tooth management, pulpotomy, stainless steel crowns, space maintenance, trauma in children, preventive strategies, fluoride use | Moderate-High |
| Orthodontics | Skeletal and dental classification, cephalometric basics, fixed/removable appliances, interceptive orthodontics, tooth movement principles | Moderate |
| Oral Medicine & Oral Radiology | Oral mucosal lesion diagnosis, oral cancer recognition, radiograph interpretation (periapical, bitewing, OPG), jaw lesion differential diagnosis | Moderate |
| Oral Pathology | Cysts and tumours of the jaw (OKC, ameloblastoma, dentigerous cyst), white/red lesions, vesiculobullous diseases, salivary gland pathology | Moderate |
Basic Dental Sciences
| Subject | Key Topics |
|---|---|
| Dental Anatomy & Occlusion | Tooth morphology, pulp cavity anatomy, root anatomy, occlusal principles, TMJ anatomy |
| Pharmacology in Dentistry | Local anaesthetics and vasoconstrictors, analgesics, antibiotics, anticoagulants in dentistry (no brand names) |
| Dental Biomaterials | Properties of composites, ceramics, metals, impression materials, cements, bonding systems |
| Microbiology & Infection Control | Oral microbiome, sterilisation/disinfection, PPE, cross-contamination prevention |
Bahrain-Specific Professional Practice
| Subject | Key Topics |
|---|---|
| Ethics & Patient Safety | Informed consent, patient rights, confidentiality, professional conduct, evidence-based dentistry |
| CPD/CME Requirements | NHRA requires 30 CME/CPD hours annually for licence renewal β relevant to specialty field |
β
NHRA High-Yield Areas
Based on the exam format: Local anaesthesia nerve blocks Κ· Endodontic diagnosis and treatment Κ· Restorative and operative scenarios Κ· Periodontal classification and management Κ· Prosthodontic troubleshooting Κ· Oral surgery extractions and complications Κ· Paediatric trauma Κ· Oral pathology differentials (cysts, white/red lesions) Κ· Medical emergencies in the dental clinic Κ· Radiographic interpretation. All presented as clinical vignette MCQs. No brand names β all materials and drugs are referred to by generic names only.
Required Documents for NHRA Application
Valid Passport Copy
Clear colour copy, passport valid for minimum 6 months
Clear colour copy, passport valid for minimum 6 months
BDS / Dental Degree Certificate
From institution listed in World Directory of Medical/Dental Schools; authenticated
From institution listed in World Directory of Medical/Dental Schools; authenticated
Academic Transcripts
Official transcripts from all years of dental school
Official transcripts from all years of dental school
Internship Certificate
Proof of 12-month internship completion β in university-affiliated hospital. Note: exam done during internship will NOT be accepted
Proof of 12-month internship completion β in university-affiliated hospital. Note: exam done during internship will NOT be accepted
Experience Certificate(s)
Covering minimum 5 years post-qualification clinical experience in licensed healthcare settings
Covering minimum 5 years post-qualification clinical experience in licensed healthcare settings
Certificate of Good Standing (CGS)
From professional regulatory authority of current/last employment country. Must be valid and not older than 6 months at time of application
From professional regulatory authority of current/last employment country. Must be valid and not older than 6 months at time of application
DataFlow PSV Report
Primary Source Verification β mandatory. DataFlow verifies all documents with issuing institutions (20β45 working days)
Primary Source Verification β mandatory. DataFlow verifies all documents with issuing institutions (20β45 working days)
Current Professional Licence
Valid professional licence from home country or country of last employment
Valid professional licence from home country or country of last employment
π’ MEHAN Portal β Application System
All licence applications must be submitted through the NHRA online MEHAN system at mehan.nhra.bh. Non-Bahrainis require an employer invitation through the Munshaat system (munshaat.nhra.bh) to begin the process. Once the licence application is approved, NHRA generates the eligibility code and sends it via the online system. This code must be used to register for the Prometric exam β it is valid for a single attempt only. After receiving exam results, upload the examination report to your MEHAN application.
How to Apply for the NHRA Dental Exam β Step by Step
1
Get Employer Invitation (Non-Bahrainis)For non-Bahraini applicants, the process begins with an employer invitation. The facility must send an invitation through the Munshaat system (munshaat.nhra.bh), and the dentist will receive an invitation email with a link to MEHAN. Bahraini applicants may apply directly without an invitation and can be granted a licence under a non-specified facility.
2
Start DataFlow PSVBegin DataFlow Primary Source Verification immediately β it takes 20β45 working days. DataFlow independently verifies your dental degree, internship certificate, experience letters, and current licence with the issuing institutions. An existing DataFlow report from another Gulf authority may be transferable β check current DataFlow transfer options.
3
Submit Application via MEHAN PortalLog into mehan.nhra.bh, complete the licence application form, and upload all required documents. Ensure your educational qualifications, experience, and CGS meet all NHRA requirements. The application must be complete before NHRA reviews it. NHRA only accepts complete applications through the online system.
4
Receive NHRA Eligibility CodeOnce NHRA approves your licence application, an eligibility code will be generated and sent through the MEHAN system. This code is your permission to register for the Prometric exam. The eligibility code is valid for a single attempt only. Any exam attempted without this NHRA-generated code will not be accepted.
5
Book Prometric ExamUse the eligibility code to register for the BDLE at a Prometric Testing Centre. Prometric centres are available in Bahrain and globally. Schedule your preferred date and location at prometric.com. You do not need to be in Bahrain to sit the BDLE. Pay the exam fee at the time of booking.
6
Sit the Prometric ExamAttend the Prometric Testing Centre on your exam date. The BDLE is 150 MCQs in 3 hours. Score reports are available immediately after completion. A score of 60% or above = PASS. 60% and above with no negative marking makes this an assessment of breadth of clinical knowledge.
7
Upload Results & Complete LicensingUpload a copy of the examination score report to your MEHAN application. If you passed, the process of issuing the new licence will be completed. If you failed, your eligibility code will be reactivated via the MEHAN system (if attempts remain), and you can proceed to book your next attempt. Remember: new exam results must be uploaded and you must not exceed 4 attempts within 3 years of your first attempt.
Sample NHRA Dental Exam Questions
Sample Q1 Β· Endodontics Β· Treatment Decision
A 32-year-old patient presents with tooth 21 showing lingering pain to cold lasting 25 seconds, spontaneous pain at night, and no periapical changes on radiograph. What is the MOST APPROPRIATE management?
A. Monitor and prescribe analgesics only
B. Vital pulp therapy (direct pulp cap)
C. Root canal treatment β the tooth has irreversible pulpitis β
D. Extraction followed by implant placement
Correct Answer: C
The combination of lingering pain to cold (>20 seconds) and spontaneous nocturnal pain is diagnostic of irreversible pulpitis β the pulp cannot recover and will progress to necrosis. Root canal treatment is the definitive management for irreversible pulpitis when the tooth is restorable. Vital pulp therapy is inappropriate for irreversible pulpitis (it is indicated for reversible pulpitis or mechanical pulp exposure). Analgesics alone provide temporary symptom relief but do not treat the underlying condition. Extraction with implant is premature for a restorable tooth. This tests the core AAP/AAE endodontic diagnostic classification β consistently high-yield across all Gulf licensing exams including the NHRA BDLE.
Sample Q2 Β· Operative Dentistry Β· Caries Management
A 28-year-old patient has an occlusal carious lesion on tooth 46 detected on clinical examination and radiographically confirmed to extend into the inner third of dentine, with no pulp involvement. There is no visible cavitation on the surface. Which management is MOST APPROPRIATE?
A. Immediate conventional Class I cavity preparation and composite restoration
B. Fissure sealant application only
C. Risk assessment, intensified prevention, and monitoring with re-evaluation β β
D. Immediate root canal treatment and restoration
Correct Answer: C
Modern evidence-based caries management guidelines (ICCMS, European Guidelines) recognise that dentinal caries without cavitation in the inner third of dentine in a cooperative patient may be managed with non-operative/preventive approaches β intensified fluoride, dietary advice, oral hygiene improvement, and monitoring. The absence of cavitation means the tooth surface is intact and biofilm control can arrest progression. Immediate restoration should be considered for cavitated dentine lesions or when no-cavity-based management is unlikely to succeed. This question tests the ICCMS activity-based caries management framework β an increasingly common topic in contemporary dental licensing exams.
Sample Q3 Β· Oral Medicine Β· Mucosal Lesion
A 55-year-old male heavy smoker presents with a white patch on the floor of his mouth that has been present for 4 months. The lesion cannot be rubbed off and no other cause can be identified. What is the MOST APPROPRIATE next step?
A. Prescribe antifungal treatment for 2 weeks and review
B. Reassure the patient and review in 12 months
C. Advise smoking cessation and review in 3 months
D. Urgent referral for incisional biopsy β β
Correct Answer: D
A white patch that cannot be rubbed off, has no identifiable cause, and has persisted for 4 months in a heavy smoker on the floor of mouth meets the clinical definition of leukoplakia β a potentially malignant oral disorder. The floor of mouth is a high-risk anatomical site for oral squamous cell carcinoma. This demands urgent incisional biopsy for histopathological diagnosis to rule out dysplasia or malignancy. Smoking cessation is essential but insufficient as the sole response. Antifungal therapy is for pseudomembranous candidiasis (wipes off). Delaying biopsy risks missing early malignant transformation. This tests oral cancer red-flag recognition β a non-negotiable high-yield topic for the NHRA BDLE and all Gulf dental licensing exams.
π¦· Dr. Teeth Academy
Preparing for NHRA Bahrain or Other Gulf Dental Exams?
Dr. Teeth Academy's visual, concept-first courses for INBDE, NEET MDS, SDLE, DHA, MOH UAE, and DOH are built by Dr. Malik Hina β Prosthodontist, INBDE Qualified (GPA 4.0) β and trusted by 3,00,000+ dentists worldwide.
Explore All Dr. Teeth Courses βHow to Prepare for the NHRA Dental Exam 2026
π―
Clinical Application β Not Recall
Every NHRA BDLE question is a clinical scenario. Practice by reading patient presentations and making diagnostic and management decisions β not memorising textbooks. Master the reasoning process: history β examination β diagnosis β treatment plan β management. This is what 150 MCQs will test you on.
β±
150 Questions in 180 Minutes
That's 72 seconds per question. Practice under strict timed conditions β complete 3β5 full 150-question mock exams within 3 hours each. The Prometric CBT interface favours candidates who practise on a similar platform. Target 70%+ on mocks consistently before booking your exam. Arrive at the Prometric centre well-rested and hydrated.
π
Generic Names Only β No Brands
The NHRA BDLE uses only generic names for all materials and drugs β confirmed in the official exam guidance. Ensure you know the generic name behind every common dental material and drug you use. You will not recognise brand-name questions, and the exam does not use them.
π
Start DataFlow and MEHAN Early
DataFlow takes 20β45 working days. Start PSV verification as soon as you decide to apply. Begin the MEHAN application in parallel β you need all documents ready including a Certificate of Good Standing (valid, not older than 6 months). The eligibility code cannot be issued until NHRA approves the application, so administrative delays directly delay your exam date.
βοΈ
Ethics, CPD & Professional Standards
The NHRA exam includes questions on professional ethics, patient safety, informed consent, and evidence-based dentistry. These are not the majority of questions, but they are reliably present. Know the principle of beneficence, non-maleficence, informed consent for dental procedures, and evidence-based decision-making frameworks.
π
Cover All Subjects β 150 Questions
With 150 questions covering the full dental curriculum, there is no safe subject to skip. Restorative/Endodontics/OMS/Prosthodontics/Periodontics are the volume leaders, but Orthodontics, Paediatrics, Oral Medicine, and Radiology each contribute enough questions to affect your pass/fail outcome. Weaknesses in any section cost marks you cannot afford with a 60% pass threshold.
Frequently Asked Questions β NHRA Bahrain Dental Exam (BDLE) 2026
What is the NHRA Bahrain dental exam (BDLE)?
The BDLE (Bahrain Dental Licensure Examination) is the mandatory licensing examination for general dentists administered by the National Health Regulatory Authority (NHRA) β Bahrain's responsible body for licensing all health professionals, established by Law No. 38 of 2009. It is a Prometric computer-based test (CBT) and is one of the requirements for obtaining a professional dental licence to practise in the Kingdom of Bahrain. Official contact: dental@nhra.bh Β· +973 17113329 Β· nhra.bh
How many MCQs and what is the duration of the NHRA dental exam?
The NHRA BDLE is 150 Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) with a duration of 3 hours (180 minutes). It is a computer-based test at Prometric Testing Centres. Questions are single best answer format, clinical case-based scenarios. There is no negative marking. Generic names only are used β no brand names for materials or drugs.
What is the pass score for the NHRA dental exam?
The pass score is 60%, confirmed in the official NHRA Licensure Examination 2022 booklet: "The pass mark for all other professions is set at 60%." There is no negative marking. Score reports are available immediately after completing the exam at the Prometric centre. The official booklet also notes that if the exam was taken from another Prometric centre (e.g., for a different authority), the pass mark of that centre will apply.
How many attempts are allowed for the NHRA dental exam?
Per the official NHRA Dentist PQR (April 2021): Dentists have a total of 6 examination attempts under the following structure: (1) 4 consecutive attempts within a maximum of 3 years from the first attempt; (2) If fail all 4 attempts: minimum 6-month retraining in a licensed Bahrain healthcare facility; (3) After proof of retraining: 2 more attempts within 2 years of completion of training. Note: per the NHRA Licensure Examination 2022 booklet, the retraining and subsequent 2 attempts may apply to Bahrainis only β verify with NHRA for non-Bahrainis.
What is the MEHAN system and how do I use it?
MEHAN (mehan.nhra.bh) is the NHRA online licensing and application portal. All licence applications must be submitted through MEHAN before being permitted to appear for the examination. Once your application is approved, NHRA generates an eligibility code sent through MEHAN β this code is used to register for the Prometric exam and is valid for a single attempt only. After your exam, you must upload your score report to MEHAN. If you fail, NHRA reactivates your eligibility code for the next attempt (subject to remaining attempts).
What are the eligibility requirements for the NHRA dental exam?
For foreign-trained (non-Bahraini) dentists: BDS/DMD/DDS or equivalent from a recognised institution (listed in the World Directory of Medical/Dental Schools); 12-month internship completion post-graduation; 5 years of post-qualification clinical experience in a licensed healthcare setting; valid professional licence from home country; Certificate of Good Standing (not older than 6 months); and DataFlow PSV. Bahraini new graduates are exempted from experience requirements for the basic entry level.
Who is exempt from the NHRA BDLE?
Per the official NHRA Dentist PQR (April 2021): "Only Bahraini or GCC nationals who hold a valid GCC License will be exempted from the licensure examination." All other applicants β including dentists with UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, Jordan, India, or other country licences β must sit and pass the BDLE. A GCC licence from one of the six GCC states (Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman) is required for the exemption to apply.
Is DataFlow mandatory for the NHRA dental exam?
Yes. Primary Source Verification (PSV) via DataFlow is mandatory as part of the NHRA licensing process. DataFlow independently verifies your educational and professional credentials with the issuing institutions. DataFlow takes approximately 20β45 working days. Start it as early as possible. An existing DataFlow report from another Gulf authority (UAE DHA, MOH, DOH, QCHP) may be transferable to Bahrain β check current DataFlow transfer fees and eligibility at the time of application.
Can I take the NHRA dental exam outside Bahrain?
Yes. The NHRA BDLE is delivered via Prometric Testing Centres globally β candidates do not need to be in Bahrain to sit the exam. Prometric centres are available in Bahrain, India, UAE, UK, USA, and many other countries. Use the Prometric centre finder at prometric.com. You must have an eligibility code from NHRA MEHAN before booking any Prometric exam β any exam attempted without NHRA approval will not be accepted.
What experience is required to apply for the NHRA dental exam?
Foreign-trained dentists require: 12 months of post-graduation internship + 5 years of post-qualification clinical experience in a setting licensed by the professional regulatory authority of their country of practice. Experience must be relevant to the category (General Dentist) applied for. Bahraini nationals who are new graduates are exempted from the experience requirement for the basic entry level. Note: experience gained before completing the internship does not count.
What happens if I fail the NHRA dental exam multiple times?
You have 4 attempts within 3 years of your first attempt. If you fail all 4, you must complete a minimum 6-month retraining in a licensed Bahrain healthcare facility and provide proof of completion. After that, 2 more attempts are permitted within 2 years of the retraining completion β making 6 total attempts. The NHRA Licensure Examination 2022 booklet indicates the retraining pathway applies to Bahrainis β non-Bahrainis should contact NHRA directly at dental@nhra.bh to confirm the current policy.
How do I contact NHRA Bahrain about the dental exam?
Official NHRA contact details: Β· Dental email: dental@nhra.bh Β· Dental phone: +973 17113329 Β· Main phone: +973 17 113 333 Β· Fax: +973 17 113 270 Β· Website: nhra.bh Β· Licensing portal: mehan.nhra.bh Β· Working hours: 8 AM to 3 PM Β· Address: Al Khair Tower 2, Building 612, Road 1011, Block 410, Sanabis, P.O. Box 11464, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain.
What is the NHRA Specialist Examination (NSE) for dentists?
The NSE (NHRA Specialist Examination) is a separate examination required for dentists applying for specialist or consultant licences with Tier 3 qualifications. It covers the same attempt structure (6 attempts: 4 within 3 years, plus 2 more after 6 months retraining). Tier 1 and 2 qualifications are exempt from the NSE. Specialist/consultant licences are not granted until completion of the required years of experience as per the NHRA Dentist PQR. The NSE may be delivered electronically, as written exams, short cases, or interviews.
What are the CPD requirements after getting the NHRA dental licence?
Per the official NHRA Dentist PQR: dentists must accumulate a minimum of 30 CME/CPD hours annually. CPD hours must be relevant to the field of specialty. These hours must be submitted annually to NHRA even if the licence is renewed for more than one year. CPD/CME is a renewal requirement β maintaining your 30 hours per year is essential to keep your Bahrain dental licence active. CPD activities must be accredited by NHRA.
Is the NHRA dental licence valid across all of Bahrain?
Yes. The NHRA dental licence is valid to practise anywhere in the Kingdom of Bahrain β government hospitals, private clinics, dental centres, or academic institutions. Bahrain has a single national regulatory authority (NHRA) for all of the country, unlike the UAE system with multiple authorities. One NHRA licence covers all facilities across the entire kingdom.
What is the difference between the NHRA exam and the DHA, MOH UAE, or other Gulf exams?
Each Gulf exam is a completely separate licensing examination for a different country/emirate. NHRA covers Bahrain; DHA covers Dubai; MOH UAE covers Northern Emirates; DOH covers Abu Dhabi; QCHP/DHP covers Qatar; OMSB covers Oman; KDLE covers Kuwait; SDLE covers Saudi Arabia. A pass in one cannot be used for another. NHRA requires 5 years of experience for foreign dentists vs 2 years for UAE and Qatar exams. NHRA uses Prometric (not Pearson VUE like OMSB). NHRA pass score is 60% β same as DHA, QCHP, and MOH UAE.
NHRA BDLE 2026 β Key Takeaways
- βExam: 150 MCQs, 3 hours, 60% pass, no negative marking β immediate results via Prometric
- βEligibility code required β apply via MEHAN portal first; code is single-use per attempt
- β4 attempts within 3 years β + 2 more after 6-month retraining = 6 total
- β5 years experience required for foreign dentists + 12-month internship + valid CGS (β€6 months old)
- βExemption: only Bahraini/GCC nationals with valid GCC licence β all others must sit BDLE
- βDataFlow PSV mandatory β start immediately (20β45 working days); transferable from other Gulf authorities
- βGeneric names only β no brand names for materials or drugs in the exam
- βExam done before or during internship = NOT accepted
- β30 CME/CPD hours annually required to renew your NHRA dental licence
- βContact NHRA: dental@nhra.bh Β· +973 17113329 Β· mehan.nhra.bh Β· nhra.bh
Sources (Official Only): National Health Regulatory Authority (NHRA), Kingdom of Bahrain β nhra.bh Β· NHRA Dentist Professional Qualification Requirements (PQR), April 2021 Version 2 β nhra.bh/Departments/HCP/QualificationsRequirements/ Β· NHRA Licensure Examination 2022 Booklet (Updated) β nhra.bh/Departments/HCP/Application%20Licensing%20Procedure/ Β· NHRA Licensure Exams page β nhra.bh/Departments/HCP/Licensure%20Exams/. Content is for informational purposes only β always verify current requirements directly at nhra.bh or by contacting dental@nhra.bh before applying.
Launch your Graphy