Become an AAWD Member

AAWD offers several membership types – Early Career Dentist,
Practicing Dentist, Faculty, Federal Service, International, Retired, and
Affiliate – each with tailored benefits and rates to ensure affordability.
Interested members can join through membership application.

Gauge Interest in Your Area

Use the AAWD Member Directory to identify dentists in your region who may want to participate. Reach out, introduce your chapter idea, and invite them to connect.

Host an Interest Event

A virtual or in-person meeting helps you share AAWD’s mission, explain the chapter concept, and identify potential leaders. Gather contact information and begin forming your core group.

Identify Potential Officers

You will need four chapter officers (President, Vice President, Secretary, and Treasurer) who are licensed dentists and active AAWD members.

Step 1: Choose Your Chapter Officers

Elect at least four officers: President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer. All officers must be licensed dentists and active national AAWD members.

Step 2: Develop Your Chapter Bylaws

Use AAWD’s Chapter Bylaws Template to outline your leadership structure, membership expectations, voting procedures, and operational framework.

Step 3: Create Your Activity Plan

Outline your chapter’s goals and plan for meetings, events, and community engagement. Use AAWD’s Activity Plan Template to guide your planning.

Step 4: Determine Local Dues (Optional)

Chapters may set local dues to support events and operational needs. National dues remain separate and are required for all members.

Step 5: Complete the Confidentiality Agreements

Each officer must read and sign a Confidentiality Agreement to ensure member information is handled securely.

Step 6: Submit Your Application

Once all documents are ready, submit your application online through the AAWD Local Chapter Application Form. You will enter your officer roster and upload your bylaws, activity plan, and confidentiality agreements directly through the form.

Once your application is submitted:

• You’ll receive a confirmation email
• AAWD reviews your roster, officers, and bylaws
• If anything needs clarification, the Membership Team will reach out
• When approved, your chapter becomes an official AAWD Student Chapter and is added to the directory

How many members do we need to start a chapter?

Only four officers are required. Chapters can begin small and grow over time.

Can non-dentists or men join?

Yes. Non-dentists and male dentists may join as Affiliate Members. They cannot serve as officers but may fully participate in chapter activities.

Do we need a bank account?

Only if your chapter will collect dues or raise funds. An EIN is required to open an account.

Where can I find more FAQs?

For the full FAQ list, download the Local Chapter Starter Guide.