Career roadmap
How to Become a Dental Hygienist
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a dental hygienist, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a dental hygienist: (1) complete prerequisites, (2) graduate from a CODA-accredited program, (3) pass the NBDHE, (4) pass a clinical exam and get licensed, (5) advance your practice. Most people need about About 3 years. BLS lists “associate's degree” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a dental hygienist
Complete prerequisites
Biology, chemistry, anatomy and microbiology are common requirements.
Graduate from a CODA-accredited program
Programs combine classroom learning with supervised clinical care of patients.
Pass the NBDHE
The national written exam covers sciences and clinical practice.
Pass a clinical exam and get licensed
Complete your state’s clinical exam and licensing process.
Advance your practice
Add anesthesia permits, a bachelor’s degree or move into public health and education.
Education and training requirements
Dental hygienists need at least an associate degree from a program accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA). With prerequisites, this usually takes about three years. Bachelor’s and master’s programs prepare hygienists for public health, education and research roles.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | Associate's degree |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | None |
| Typical training time | About 3 years |
Certifications and licenses
- State dental hygiene license (RDH): Required to practice in every state.
- National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE): The written national exam required for licensure.
- Clinical licensing exam: A regional or state clinical exam, such as those offered by CDCA-WREB-CITA.
- Local anesthesia or nitrous oxide permit: Additional permits required by many states to administer anesthesia.
Skills to build now
Start with periodontal assessment and charting, scaling and root planing, and dental radiography, and practice gentle, reassuring manner and manual dexterity. Learning the dental hygienist vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Dental Assistant or Student Hygienist: Gain chairside experience and clinical training.
- Registered Dental Hygienist: Provide preventive care in an office or clinic.
- Periodontal or Public Health Hygienist: Specialize in gum disease or community programs.
- Hygiene Coordinator, Educator or Sales Specialist: Lead hygiene teams, teach, or work for dental product companies.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Dental Hygienist training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
How long does it take to become a dental hygienist?
About three years, including prerequisites and a two-year accredited program, plus licensing exams.
How long does it take to become a dental hygienist?
Most people need about About 3 years of training. Dental hygienists need at least an associate degree from a program accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA). With prerequisites, this usually takes about three years. Bachelor’s and master’s programs prepare hygienists for public health, education and research roles.
Do you need a degree to be a dental hygienist?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “associate's degree” as the typical entry-level education.
What certifications are available for dental hygienists?
Common credentials include State dental hygiene license (RDH), National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE), Clinical licensing exam, and Local anesthesia or nitrous oxide permit. Every state requires dental hygienists to be licensed. Requirements typically include graduation from a CODA-accredited program, the NBDHE and a clinical exam. Scope of practice, including anesthesia, varies by state.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 29-1292 (Dental hygienists).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Dental hygienists (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.