Dental Hygienist / Louisiana
2026 data Louisiana board official source

Louisiana Dental Hygienist License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

Official regulator records behind the requirements, fees, and renewal cycle for this license.

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Provides preventive dental care and examines patients for oral disease.

What the Louisiana data shows for Dental Hygienists

To practice as a dental hygienist in Louisiana, the state licensing board requires 3,230 documented education or training hours, a passing score on NBDHE (National Board Dental Hygiene Exam). A criminal history background check is also part of the application. Applicants must be at least 18 years old. The regulation sits under Louisiana's professional licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "Associate or Bachelor of Science Degree".

The initial price tag is $276, and renewal costs $159 every 2 years. The license also carries an ongoing 24-hour continuing-education requirement per 2-year cycle that adds to the true cost of staying licensed.

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

Licensing Requirements in Louisiana

Education / Training Hours
Associate or Bachelor of Science Degree
3,230 hours
Exam Requirement
NBDHE (National Board Dental Hygiene Exam)
Required
Initial License Fee
$276
Renewal Fee
$159
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
24 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years

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Compare all states for Dental Hygienist All Louisiana licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Louisiana licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Dental Hygienist in Louisiana? ▼
In Louisiana, the license path calls for 3230 education/training hours, a passing score on NBDHE (National Board Dental Hygiene Exam), and a $276 initial fee. A criminal background check is required as well.
How do I get certified as a Dental Hygienist in Louisiana? ▼
Certification as a dental hygienist in Louisiana means clearing the state's checklist: 3230 hours of education, and a passing exam score. The Louisiana licensing board can confirm the current details.
Can I transfer my Dental Hygienist license to Louisiana 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 Louisiana licensing board can confirm the current rules for your credential.
Does Louisiana require a background check for Dental Hygienist licensing? ▼
Yes, Louisiana requires a criminal background check as part of the dental hygienist licensing process. Disqualifying offenses and review criteria are determined by the state licensing board.
What are the continuing education requirements for Dental Hygienist in Louisiana? ▼
Louisiana ties continued dental hygienist licensure to 24 continuing-education hours, due every 2 years, alongside a $159 renewal fee.

Related Guides

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

Read our methodology - how this data is sourced, computed, and verified.