Membership Information
Tripartite membership means support from a local chapter, state society, and national organization. Each level sets dues independently and belonging to all three protects dentists and the public. Review the membership categories below and choose the one that best fits your professional stage. Faculty members receive 50% off Full Member dues (national and state level only); simply indicate your faculty status on the application and your dues will be automatically reduced. If you have any questions, our membership team is here to help.
Full Member
A Full Active Member is a licensed, actively practicing dentist who maintains tripartite membership. Your tripartite dues are based on the district where you reside.
Retired Member
To qualify for retired tripartite membership—you must be 65 years of age AND fully retired and no longer earning any income from the knowledge of dentistry.
Retired members are eligible for a 75% dues reduction.
Early Career - 1st Year
This option is for dentists graduating in the current or immediately previous membership year (2026 membership year, 2025/2026 graduate) or those who have recently finished a residency.
You owe no dues in the year you graduate. After that, you receive two years of reduced dues, with full dues beginning in your third full year out of dental school. Extended education programs may delay the start of reduced dues if membership is continuous.
Early Career - 2nd Year
This option is for dentists who graduated two years prior to the current membership year (2026 Membership Year, 2024 graduate).
Your dues are discounted by 50% and you will begin paying full dues next membership year. Extended education programs may delay the start of reduced dues if membership is continuous.
Life Member
Life membership is awarded to members who have 30 consecutive years of membership or 40 total years of membership.
Active life members are recognized for their continued membership and commitment to organized dentistry each year at our GDA Convention & Expo and receive a discount on dues.
Life members are eligible for a 25% dues reduction (state and local only).
Student
As early as your Freshman/D1 year, your path to becoming a dentist is already full of opportunities—and the Georgia Dental Association is here to help you make the most of them. As a dental student, you can connect with mentors, explore professional development resources, and start building relationships that will support you throughout your career. Student membership is FREE!
Resident
Residency is where clinical skill meets career direction. As a dental resident, the Georgia Dental Association helps you navigate this next step with mentorship, leadership development, and access to a strong professional network. You’re building more than experience—you’re building a career, and GDA is here to support you every step of the way. Resident membership is FREE!