Dental Hygienist / Arizona
2026 data Arizona board official source

Arizona Dental Hygienist License Requirements

State-board requirements, fees, and renewal cycle drawn from official regulator records.

Provides preventive dental care and examines patients for oral disease.

What the Arizona data shows for Dental Hygienists

Arizona's path to dental hygienist licensure runs through 3,332 hours of approved instruction and a passing score on NBDHE (National Board Dental Hygiene Exam), plus a criminal history screening before applicants younger than 18 can be licensed. Arizona folds the credential into its broader occupational licensing statute, which classifies the training track as "Associate or Bachelor of Science Degree".

Upfront cost is $304, with renewal running $175 on a 2-year cycle. Renewal isn't the end of the cost: 24 hours of continuing education are due every 2-year cycle, a recurring time commitment worth planning for.

For dental hygienists, the reciprocity picture is: Dental Hygiene Compact: 20+ states.

Licensing Requirements in Arizona

Education / Training Hours
Associate or Bachelor of Science Degree
3,332 hours
Exam Requirement
NBDHE (National Board Dental Hygiene Exam)
Required
Initial License Fee
$304
Renewal Fee
$175
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
24 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Arizona licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Dental Hygienist in Arizona?
In Arizona, the license path calls for 3332 education/training hours, a passing score on NBDHE (National Board Dental Hygiene Exam), and a $304 initial fee. A criminal background check is required as well.
How do I get certified as a Dental Hygienist in Arizona?
Arizona licenses dental hygienists who complete its requirements (3332 education hours) and a passing exam. Verify the latest details with the Arizona licensing board.
Can I transfer my Dental Hygienist license to Arizona from another state?
For dental hygienists, the reciprocity landscape looks like this: Dental Hygiene Compact: 20+ states. Many professions are also covered by interstate licensing compacts that facilitate portability between states. Contact the Arizona licensing board to confirm how it applies to your specific credential.
Does Arizona require a background check for Dental Hygienist licensing?
Background screening is part of the dental hygienist licensing process in Arizona. The state licensing board determines which offenses disqualify an applicant and how appeals are handled.
What are the continuing education requirements for Dental Hygienist in Arizona?
Licensed dental hygienists in Arizona must complete 24 hours of continuing education every 2 years. The renewal fee is $175.

Source: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites