How to Get a Dental Hygienist License in California
Last updated: March 2, 2026
California is the nation's most populous state with one of the most competitive real estate markets, making it an excellent place to start a career as a dental hygienist. Licensing in California is overseen by the Dental Hygiene Board of California. The process requires 2400 hours of pre-license education and costs between $44,500 and $45,500 in total. You'll need to pass the NBDHE + California Clinical Licensing Examination (administered by Dental Hygiene Board of California) with a score of at least 70%.
At 2400 hours, California has one of the higher pre-license education requirements in the country. This is close to the national average of 2208 hours. Budget between $44,500 and $45,500 for the total licensing process, including education, application, and exam fees. Most aspiring dental hygienists complete the entire process in 4-7 months, depending on how quickly they move through the coursework and exam preparation.
California Dental Hygienist License Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum Age | 18 years old |
| Pre-License Education | 2400 hours |
| Degree Required | No |
| Exam Required | Yes — NBDHE + California Clinical Licensing Examination |
| Passing Score | 70% |
| Background Check | Yes |
| Broker Sponsorship | Not required |
| Application Fee | $100 |
| Exam Fee | $1,190 |
| Governing Body | Dental Hygiene Board of California |
| License Reciprocity | Partial |
Reciprocity:
Steps to Get Your Dental Hygienist License in California
- 1
Complete an Accredited Dental Hygiene Program
Graduate from a CODA-accredited dental hygiene program (associate or bachelor's degree). Programs typically take 2-4 years.
Time: 2-4 years Cost: $350 - 2
Pass the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination
Pass the NBDHE, a comprehensive written exam covering dental hygiene science and clinical practice. The exam fee is $1190.
Time: Schedule within 2-4 weeks Cost: $1,190 - 3
Pass a Clinical Licensing Exam
Pass a state or regional clinical exam (ADEX, CRDTS, or state-specific) demonstrating hands-on dental hygiene skills on live patients.
Time: 1-3 months to schedule and take Cost: $500 - 4
Apply for State Licensure
Submit your application to the Dental Hygiene Board of California. Include proof of education, exam scores, CPR certification, and the application fee of $100.
Time: 2-6 weeks for processing Cost: $100 - 5
Begin Your Dental Hygiene Career
Once licensed by the Dental Hygiene Board of California, you can practice dental hygiene in California. Most dental hygienists work in private dental offices, with some in public health settings.
Time: Immediate once licensed
Key Things to Know
- Education requirement: . Many providers offer online options, giving you flexibility to study on your own schedule.
- The licensing exam: The NBDHE + California Clinical Licensing Examination is administered by Dental Hygiene Board of California. You'll need to score at least 70% to pass. Study materials and practice exams are available from most education providers.
- Background check required: California requires a criminal background check as part of the application process. Plan for additional processing time and fees.
- Online application available: California accepts online applications, which can speed up processing time.
- Ongoing requirements: Once licensed, you'll need 25 hours of continuing education every 2 years. .
How California Compares
California requires 2400 hours of pre-license education for dental hygienists. This is close to the national average of 2208 hours. The average total cost in California is around $45,000, compared to the national average of $29,200.
How Much Does a Dental Hygienist License Cost in California?
| Cost Item | Estimated Range |
|---|---|
| Pre-License Education | $300 - $700 |
| Application Fee | $100 |
| Exam Fee | $1,190 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $44,500 - $45,500 |
License Renewal
- Renewal Period: Every 2 years
- Continuing Education: 25 hours
- CE Details:
- Renewal Fee: $100
Tips for Success
- Choose your education provider carefully: Compare prices, format (online vs. in-person), and reviews. Some providers offer exam prep materials bundled with the course, which can save you money. Check the Dental Hygiene Board of California website for a list of approved providers.
- Don't rush the exam: With 2400 hours of required coursework, consider a structured schedule — completing one course at a time helps avoid burnout. Use practice exams to identify weak areas before scheduling your test date.
- Choose CODA-accredited programs only: Only graduates of programs accredited by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) are eligible for licensure. Associate degree programs take 2-3 years; bachelor's programs take 4 years and open doors to education and management roles.
- Prepare for both written and clinical exams: You'll need to pass the NBDHE (written) and a clinical exam (ADEX or state-specific). The clinical exam requires you to work on a live patient — start recruiting patients early through your school's clinic.
- Budget approximately $45,500 for your California license: This includes $100 in application fees, $1,190 for the exam, and education costs. Once licensed, plan for $100 in renewal fees every 2 years.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a dental hygienist license in California?
Most people complete the process in 3-6 months total. The pre-license education (2400 hours) takes the longest. After completing education, the exam and application process typically adds 2-6 weeks.
How much does it cost to get a dental hygienist license in California?
The total cost ranges from $44,500 to $45,500, including pre-license education, the application fee ($100), and the exam fee ($1190).
Can I get a California dental hygienist license with a criminal record?
The Dental Hygiene Board of California evaluates criminal history on a case-by-case basis. Having a criminal record does not automatically disqualify you, but certain offenses may affect your eligibility. Contact the Dental Hygiene Board of California for guidance before applying.
Do I need a college degree to become a dental hygienist in California?
No. California does not require a college degree. You only need to complete the 2400 hours of approved pre-license courses.
Can I take the pre-license courses online in California?
Many approved education providers offer pre-license courses online, allowing you to study at your own pace. Check the Dental Hygiene Board of California website for a list of approved providers.
Sources
- Official website: Dental Hygiene Board of California