Dental Hygienist in Alabama

Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for AL. Updated with 2024 BLS OEWS wage data.

Median annual salary

$59,840

trending_down -36.5% vs. national

BLS OEWS 2024, Alabama.

engineering

2,840

Jobs (AL)

monitoring Strong

+7.0%

10-yr job growth

payments

$350

Licensing fees

schedule

2-4 years

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

10th percentile (entry) $47,280

25th percentile $51,920

50th (median) $59,840

75th percentile $62,440

90th (experienced) $68,640

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
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

work_outline Job outlook

10-year growth

+7.0%

Faster than average

Annual openings

15,300

Nationwide per year

Total employment

221,600

Nationwide

balance Is it worth it?

check_circleAlabama license required — clearer credential signal to employers
check_circleStrong 10-year job growth (+7.0%)

psychology

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Frequently asked questions

What's required to work as a dental hygienist in Alabama? expand_more

In Alabama, becoming a dental hygienist requires you to complete the required education (Associate degree in Dental Hygiene from a CODA-accredited program), pass the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE) and a regional clinical exam (ADEX/CITA), and submit your application ($350 fee).

Do I need a license to work as a dental hygienist in Alabama? expand_more

A state license is required in Alabama. Board of Dental Examiners of Alabama handles dental hygienist licensing — the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE) and a regional clinical exam (ADEX/CITA) is part of the process.

How much does a dental hygienist make in Alabama? expand_more

dental hygienists in Alabama earn a median of $59,840 annually. This trails the $94,260 national median by 37%. Wages range from $47,280 (10th percentile) up to $68,640 (90th percentile).

What's the timeline to become a dental hygienist in Alabama? expand_more

The typical timeline in Alabama is 2-4 years. This includes completing education, gaining any required experience, and passing the licensing exam.

What are the continuing education requirements for dental hygienists in Alabama? expand_more

Alabama requires 12.0 hours of continuing education every 1.0 year to maintain your dental hygienist license.