Dental Hygienist / Connecticut
2026 data Connecticut board official source

Connecticut Dental Hygienist License Requirements

Requirements, fees, and renewal timing for this license, sourced from state board records.

Provides preventive dental care and examines patients for oral disease.

What the Connecticut data shows for Dental Hygienists

Connecticut's path to dental hygienist licensure runs through 3,176 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. Connecticut folds the credential into its broader occupational licensing statute, which classifies the training track as "Associate or Bachelor of Science Degree".

Budget $261 to get started, plus $151 at each renewal on a 2-year cycle. Maintaining the license requires 24 hours of continuing education per 2-year cycle, an ongoing cost applicants often underestimate when budgeting the career.

On reciprocity, dental hygienists should know: Dental Hygiene Compact: 20+ states.

Licensing Requirements in Connecticut

Education / Training Hours
Associate or Bachelor of Science Degree
3,176 hours
Exam Requirement
NBDHE (National Board Dental Hygiene Exam)
Required
Initial License Fee
$261
Renewal Fee
$151
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 Connecticut licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Dental Hygienist in Connecticut?
In Connecticut, the license path calls for 3176 education/training hours, a passing score on NBDHE (National Board Dental Hygiene Exam), and a $261 initial fee. A criminal background check is required as well.
How do I get certified as a Dental Hygienist in Connecticut?
Certification as a dental hygienist in Connecticut means clearing the state's checklist: 3176 hours of education, and a passing exam score. The Connecticut licensing board can confirm the current details.
Can I transfer my Dental Hygienist license to Connecticut from another state?
Dental Hygienist licenses generally reciprocate as follows: Dental Hygiene Compact: 20+ states. Interstate licensing compacts cover many professions and can further ease a move between states. The Connecticut licensing board can confirm the current rules for your credential.
Does Connecticut require a background check for Dental Hygienist licensing?
Background screening is part of the dental hygienist licensing process in Connecticut. 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 Connecticut?
Licensed dental hygienists in Connecticut must complete 24 hours of continuing education every 2 years. The renewal fee is $151.

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