Dental Hygienist / Mississippi
2026 data Mississippi board official source

Mississippi 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 Mississippi data shows for Dental Hygienists

Becoming a licensed dental hygienist in Mississippi means clearing a defined set of hurdles: 2,797 training hours, a passing score on NBDHE (National Board Dental Hygiene Exam), plus a background history check once the applicant turns 18. Mississippi regulators place this credential inside their licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "Associate or Bachelor of Science Degree".

Upfront cost is $157, with renewal running $95 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 Mississippi

Education / Training Hours
Associate or Bachelor of Science Degree
2,797 hours
Exam Requirement
NBDHE (National Board Dental Hygiene Exam)
Required
Initial License Fee
$157
Renewal Fee
$95
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 Mississippi licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Dental Hygienist in Mississippi?
Mississippi requires 2797 education/training hours, passing an exam (NBDHE (National Board Dental Hygiene Exam)), and an initial fee of $157. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as a Dental Hygienist in Mississippi?
Mississippi licenses dental hygienists who complete its requirements (2797 education hours) and a passing exam. Verify the latest details with the Mississippi licensing board.
Can I transfer my Dental Hygienist license to Mississippi 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 Mississippi licensing board to confirm how it applies to your specific credential.
Does Mississippi require a background check for Dental Hygienist licensing?
Yes, Mississippi 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 Mississippi?
Licensed dental hygienists in Mississippi must complete 24 hours of continuing education every 2 years. The renewal fee is $95.

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