Dental Hygienist / Montana
2026 data Montana board official source

Montana 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 Montana data shows for Dental Hygienists

To practice as a dental hygienist in Montana, the state licensing board requires 3,257 documented education or training hours, a passing score on the NBDHE (National Board Dental Hygiene Exam) examination. A criminal history background check is also part of the application. Applicants must be at least 18 years old. The regulation sits under Montana's professional licensing framework, which classifies training as "Associate or Bachelor of Science Degree".

Upfront cost is $283, with renewal running $164 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 is available: Dental Hygiene Compact: 20+ states. Compared to the profession-wide pattern, the numbers above should be cross-checked against other states before relocating — licensing cost, training hours, and exam requirements vary enough that a different state may cut thousands of dollars and months of training from the path. The state board, not this page, is the final authority; verify every field below with the official regulator before you pay fees or enroll in training.

Licensing Requirements in Montana

Education / Training Hours
Associate or Bachelor of Science Degree
3,257 hours
Exam Requirement
NBDHE (National Board Dental Hygiene Exam)
Required
Initial License Fee
$283
Renewal Fee
$164
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
24 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years
0

License Reciprocity

Dental Hygiene Compact: 20+ states

Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with Montana licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Dental Hygienist in Montana?
Montana requires 3257 education/training hours, passing an exam (NBDHE (National Board Dental Hygiene Exam)), and an initial fee of $283. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as a Dental Hygienist in Montana?
To become a licensed dental hygienist in Montana, you must meet the state's requirements including 3257 hours of education. You must also pass the required examination. Contact the Montana licensing board to verify current requirements.
Can I transfer my Dental Hygienist license to Montana from another state?
Montana has reciprocity provisions: Dental Hygiene Compact: 20+ states. Many professions are covered by interstate licensing compacts that facilitate portability. Contact the Montana licensing board for specific reciprocity details.
Does Montana require a background check for Dental Hygienist licensing?
Yes, Montana 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 Montana?
Licensed dental hygienists in Montana must complete 24 hours of continuing education every 2 years. The renewal fee is $164.

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

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