Application Fee
See agencyVerified by AR Board of Healthcare
Dental Hygienist Licensing in Arkansas
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for dental hygienist in Arkansas, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Dental Hygienist in Arkansas
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Register with licensing agency
- Education: Varies by state board
- Examination: State-approved exam
- Application Fee: See agency
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Arkansas Department of Health • Arkansas State Board of Dental Examiners
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$83,760 median (11% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#31 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet baseline eligibility requirements.
- 2. Complete approved education/training requirements.
- 3. Pass required exam(s) and submit application.
- 4. Maintain and renew license according to board rules.
Salary Insights in Arkansas
With a median salary of 83,760, Dental Hygienists in Arkansas earn 11% below the national median of $94,260. Arkansas ranks #31 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$83,760Hourly estimate
$40.2711% below national median
Difference: -$10,500
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationDental Hygienist Salary Ranking
#31 of 50 statesfor Dental Hygienist median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Alaska | 129,760 |
| #2 | Washington | 125,370 |
| #3 | California | 121,080 |
| #4 | Oregon | 118,280 |
| #5 | Colorado | 106,730 |
Nearby States Comparison
Dental Hygienist licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arkansas | $83,760 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $83,270 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $81,810 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Mississippi | $66,290 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Louisiana | $80,900 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Texas | $94,490 | Specific course required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Oklahoma | $95,860 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
License by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arkansas | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Missouri | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Tennessee | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Mississippi | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Louisiana | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Texas | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Arkansas Department of Health • Arkansas State Board of Dental Examiners
101 East Capitol Ave., Suite 111, Little Rock, AR, 72201
Phone: 5016822085
Related Careers in Arkansas
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $99,330 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $77,780 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $50,480 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $37,680 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Dental Hygienist in Arkansas?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 6-24 months, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What is the typical Dental Hygienist salary in Arkansas?
The median annual salary for Dental Hygienists in Arkansas is 83,760. Salaries range from $56,430 (10th percentile) to $101,250 (90th percentile).
How does the Dental Hygienist salary in Arkansas compare to the national average?
Dental Hygienists in Arkansas earn 11% below the national median of $94,260, with a state median of 83,760.
How many Dental Hygienists work in Arkansas?
Arkansas employs approximately 1,790 Dental Hygienists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Dental Hygienist license to Arkansas from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Dental Hygienists in Arkansas?
The licensing agency is Arkansas Department of Health / Arkansas State Board of Dental Examiners. Review agency details at https://healthy.arkansas.gov/.