2026 data Idaho board official source

Idaho 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 Idaho data shows for Dental Hygienists

Becoming a licensed dental hygienist in Idaho means clearing a defined set of hurdles: 2,635 training hours, a passing score on NBDHE (National Board Dental Hygiene Exam), plus a background history check once the applicant turns 18. Idaho regulators place this credential inside their licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "Associate or Bachelor of Science Degree".

Budget $112 to get started, plus $70 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.

Reciprocity for this profession works like this: Dental Hygiene Compact: 20+ states.

Licensing Requirements in Idaho

Education / Training Hours
Associate or Bachelor of Science Degree
2,635 hours
Exam Requirement
NBDHE (National Board Dental Hygiene Exam)
Required
Initial License Fee
$112
Renewal Fee
$70
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 Idaho licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Dental Hygienist in Idaho?
Idaho requires 2635 education/training hours, passing an exam (NBDHE (National Board Dental Hygiene Exam)), and an initial fee of $112. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as a Dental Hygienist in Idaho?
Certification as a dental hygienist in Idaho means clearing the state's checklist: 2635 hours of education, and a passing exam score. The Idaho licensing board can confirm the current details.
Can I transfer my Dental Hygienist license to Idaho 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 Idaho licensing board can confirm the current rules for your credential.
Does Idaho require a background check for Dental Hygienist licensing?
A criminal background check is mandatory for dental hygienist licensing in Idaho. The state licensing board sets the disqualifying-offense criteria and review process.
What are the continuing education requirements for Dental Hygienist in Idaho?
Licensed dental hygienists in Idaho must complete 24 hours of continuing education every 2 years. The renewal fee is $70.

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