Dental Hygienist / South Dakota
2026 data South Dakota board official source

South Dakota 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 South Dakota data shows for Dental Hygienists

To practice as a dental hygienist in South Dakota, the state licensing board requires 2,581 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 South Dakota's professional licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "Associate or Bachelor of Science Degree".

Upfront cost is $97, with renewal running $62 on a 2-year cycle. 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 South Dakota

Education / Training Hours
Associate or Bachelor of Science Degree
2,581 hours
Exam Requirement
NBDHE (National Board Dental Hygiene Exam)
Required
Initial License Fee
$97
Renewal Fee
$62
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 South Dakota licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with South Dakota licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Dental Hygienist in South Dakota? ▼
South Dakota requires 2581 education/training hours, passing an exam (NBDHE (National Board Dental Hygiene Exam)), and an initial fee of $97. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as a Dental Hygienist in South Dakota? ▼
South Dakota licenses dental hygienists who complete its requirements (2581 education hours) and a passing exam. Verify the latest details with the South Dakota licensing board.
Can I transfer my Dental Hygienist license to South Dakota 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 South Dakota licensing board can confirm the current rules for your credential.
Does South Dakota require a background check for Dental Hygienist licensing? ▼
Background screening is part of the dental hygienist licensing process in South Dakota. 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 South Dakota? ▼
Licensed dental hygienists in South Dakota must complete 24 hours of continuing education every 2 years. The renewal fee is $62.

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.