Dental Hygienist in Alabama
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for AL. Updated with 2024 BLS OEWS wage data.
BLS OEWS 2024, Alabama.
Jobs (AL)
10-yr job growth
Licensing fees
Time to complete
route How to become a dental hygienist in Alabama
To become a licensed Dental Hygienist in Alabama, individuals must graduate from a CODA-accredited dental hygiene program, pass the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE), and successfully complete a regional clinical exam (such as CDCA, CITA, CRDTS, SRTA, or WREB). Applicants must also pass an Alabama jurisprudence exam, undergo a background check, and hold current CPR certification. Alabama offers licensure by credentials for experienced dental hygienists from states with equivalent standards, and there are provisions for military spouses.
bar_chart Salary percentiles
Source: BLS OEWS 2024 for Alabama. Metro-area wages may differ significantly from the state aggregate.
checklist Alabama requirements
| Licensing body | Board of Dental Examiners of Alabama |
| State license | Required |
| Education | Associate degree in Dental Hygiene from a CODA-accredited program |
| Exam | National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE) and a regional clinical exam (ADEX/CITA) |
| Application fee | $350 |
| Renewal | Every 1.0 year |
| Continuing education | 12.0 hours per cycle |
| Reciprocity | Alabama offers licensure by credentials for hygienists with active practice and equivalent licensure standards.Reciprocal states: Alabama offers licensure by credentials for dental hygienists who have been actively practicing for five years or 5,000 hours, hold a current, valid license in a state with equivalent examination standards (including passing the NBDHE), and meet other requirements. Military spouses may also be eligible for licensure. |
| Notes | Applicants must be at least 19 years old and of good moral character. A state jurisprudence exam and a background check are required. CPR certification (BLS Healthcare Provider, CPR/AED for Professional Rescuer, or equivalent, in-person with skills examination on a manikin) and infectious disease control training are also mandatory. Renewal is annual. |
Source: Board of Dental Examiners of Alabama
Already licensed elsewhere and moving to Alabama? See whether Alabama recognizes an out-of-state credential — with the tier and pathway for all 50 states — in our Dental Hygienist license reciprocity guide.
work_outline Job outlook
balance Is it worth it?
- check_circleAlabama license required — clearer credential signal to employers
- check_circleStrong 10-year job growth (+7.0%)
Compare Dental Hygienist head-to-head
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