If a dentist has failed the NC exam, what status can they not apply for?

The correct understanding is that a dentist who has failed the North Carolina exam cannot apply for an instructor's license. This is because an instructor's license typically requires a valid dental practice license and a demonstrated level of proficiency and understanding of the dental field, which is assessed through licensing exams. Failing the exam indicates that the candidate has not met the state’s necessary competency standards to hold a dental practice license, thus making them ineligible for a role that involves teaching and assessing others.

In contrast, provisional and temporary licenses may be available in specific contexts, potentially allowing individuals to practice under supervision or in certain settings even if they’ve encountered difficulties with the examination process. Therefore, while all other statuses can have variations and possible circumstances under which someone may apply despite having failed the NC exam, the instructor's license distinctly requires a valid license that is contingent upon passing the examination.