Dental Hygienist / Nebraska
2026 data Nebraska board official source

Nebraska 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 Nebraska data shows for Dental Hygienists

To practice as a dental hygienist in Nebraska, the state licensing board requires 2,662 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 Nebraska's professional licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "Associate or Bachelor of Science Degree".

Upfront cost is $120, with renewal running $74 on a 2-year cycle. Renewal isn't the end of the cost: 24 hours of continuing education are due every 2-year cycle, a recurring time commitment worth planning for.

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

Licensing Requirements in Nebraska

Education / Training Hours
Associate or Bachelor of Science Degree
2,662 hours
Exam Requirement
NBDHE (National Board Dental Hygiene Exam)
Required
Initial License Fee
$120
Renewal Fee
$74
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 Nebraska licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Dental Hygienist in Nebraska?
In Nebraska, the license path calls for 2662 education/training hours, a passing score on NBDHE (National Board Dental Hygiene Exam), and a $120 initial fee. A criminal background check is required as well.
How do I get certified as a Dental Hygienist in Nebraska?
Certification as a dental hygienist in Nebraska means clearing the state's checklist: 2662 hours of education, and a passing exam score. The Nebraska licensing board can confirm the current details.
Can I transfer my Dental Hygienist license to Nebraska 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 Nebraska licensing board to confirm how it applies to your specific credential.
Does Nebraska require a background check for Dental Hygienist licensing?
Yes, Nebraska 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 Nebraska?
To stay licensed as a dental hygienist in Nebraska, plan on 24 hours of continuing education per 2-year renewal cycle; renewal itself runs $74.

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