How to Get a Dental Hygienist License in Connecticut
Last updated: March 2, 2026
Connecticut is a high-value market in the New York City commuter corridor, making it an excellent place to start a career as a dental hygienist. Licensing in Connecticut is overseen by the Connecticut Department of Public Health — Dental Commission. The process requires 2200 hours of pre-license education and costs between $37,500 and $38,500 in total. You'll need to pass the NBDHE + CDCA Clinical Examination (administered by Connecticut Department of Public Health — Dental Commission) with a score of at least 70%.
At 2200 hours, Connecticut has one of the higher pre-license education requirements in the country. This is close to the national average of 2208 hours. Budget between $37,500 and $38,500 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.
Connecticut Dental Hygienist License Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum Age | 18 years old |
| Pre-License Education | 2200 hours |
| Degree Required | No |
| Exam Required | Yes — NBDHE + CDCA Clinical Examination |
| Passing Score | 70% |
| Background Check | Yes |
| Broker Sponsorship | Not required |
| Application Fee | $200 |
| Exam Fee | $1,290 |
| Governing Body | Connecticut Department of Public Health — Dental Commission |
| License Reciprocity | Partial |
Reciprocity:
Steps to Get Your Dental Hygienist License in Connecticut
- 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 $1290.
Time: Schedule within 2-4 weeks Cost: $1,290 - 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 Connecticut Department of Public Health — Dental Commission. Include proof of education, exam scores, CPR certification, and the application fee of $200.
Time: 2-6 weeks for processing Cost: $200 - 5
Begin Your Dental Hygiene Career
Once licensed by the Connecticut Department of Public Health — Dental Commission, you can practice dental hygiene in Connecticut. 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 + CDCA Clinical Examination is administered by Connecticut Department of Public Health — Dental Commission. You'll need to score at least 70% to pass. Study materials and practice exams are available from most education providers.
- Background check required: Connecticut requires a criminal background check as part of the application process. Plan for additional processing time and fees.
- Online application available: Connecticut accepts online applications, which can speed up processing time.
- Ongoing requirements: Once licensed, you'll need 0 hours of continuing education every 1 year. .
How Connecticut Compares
Connecticut requires 2200 hours of pre-license education for dental hygienists. This is close to the national average of 2208 hours. The average total cost in Connecticut is around $38,000, compared to the national average of $29,200. Connecticut's 1-year renewal cycle is shorter than the national average of 1.8 years.
How Much Does a Dental Hygienist License Cost in Connecticut?
| Cost Item | Estimated Range |
|---|---|
| Pre-License Education | $300 - $700 |
| Application Fee | $200 |
| Exam Fee | $1,290 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $37,500 - $38,500 |
License Renewal
- Renewal Period: Every 1 years
- Continuing Education: 0 hours
- CE Details:
- Renewal Fee: $200
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 Connecticut Department of Public Health — Dental Commission website for a list of approved providers.
- Don't rush the exam: With 2200 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 $38,500 for your Connecticut license: This includes $200 in application fees, $1,290 for the exam, and education costs. Once licensed, plan for $200 in renewal fees every 1 year.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a dental hygienist license in Connecticut?
Most people complete the process in 3-6 months total. The pre-license education (2200 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 Connecticut?
The total cost ranges from $37,500 to $38,500, including pre-license education, the application fee ($200), and the exam fee ($1290).
Can I get a Connecticut dental hygienist license with a criminal record?
The Connecticut Department of Public Health — Dental Commission 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 Connecticut Department of Public Health — Dental Commission for guidance before applying.
Do I need a college degree to become a dental hygienist in Connecticut?
No. Connecticut does not require a college degree. You only need to complete the 2200 hours of approved pre-license courses.
Can I take the pre-license courses online in Connecticut?
Many approved education providers offer pre-license courses online, allowing you to study at your own pace. Check the Connecticut Department of Public Health — Dental Commission website for a list of approved providers.
Sources
- Official website: Connecticut Department of Public Health — Dental Commission