Dental Hygienist / New Hampshire
2026 data New Hampshire board official source

New Hampshire Dental Hygienist License Requirements

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

Provides preventive dental care and examines patients for oral disease.

What the New Hampshire data shows for Dental Hygienists

To practice as a dental hygienist in New Hampshire, the state licensing board requires 2,500 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 New Hampshire's professional licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "Associate or Bachelor of Science Degree".

Upfront cost is $75, with renewal running $50 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.

For dental hygienists, the reciprocity picture is: Dental Hygiene Compact: 20+ states.

Licensing Requirements in New Hampshire

Education / Training Hours
Associate or Bachelor of Science Degree
2,500 hours
Exam Requirement
NBDHE (National Board Dental Hygiene Exam)
Required
Initial License Fee
$75
Renewal Fee
$50
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 New Hampshire licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Dental Hygienist in New Hampshire?
New Hampshire requires 2500 education/training hours, passing an exam (NBDHE (National Board Dental Hygiene Exam)), and an initial fee of $75. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as a Dental Hygienist in New Hampshire?
Certification as a dental hygienist in New Hampshire means clearing the state's checklist: 2500 hours of education, and a passing exam score. The New Hampshire licensing board can confirm the current details.
Can I transfer my Dental Hygienist license to New Hampshire 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 New Hampshire licensing board to confirm how it applies to your specific credential.
Does New Hampshire require a background check for Dental Hygienist licensing?
Background screening is part of the dental hygienist licensing process in New Hampshire. The state licensing board determines which offenses disqualify an applicant and how appeals are handled.
What are the continuing education requirements for Dental Hygienist in New Hampshire?
New Hampshire ties continued dental hygienist licensure to 24 continuing-education hours, due every 2 years, alongside a $50 renewal fee.

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