Application Fee
See agencyDental 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 17, 2026
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Dental Hygienist in Arkansas
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Varies by state board.
- 2
License Type: Register with licensing agency.
Exam and processing details
- State-approved exam
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 Arkansas eligibility requirements for Dental Hygienist licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training (Education: Varies by state board.).
- 3. Pass required examination steps: State-approved exam.
- 4. Submit the application to Arkansas Department of Health~Arkansas State Board of Dental Examiners and monitor board communications.
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 Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1%Average Weekly Wage
$1,118Median annual salary
$83,760Hourly estimate
$40.27Difference: -$10,500
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationDental Hygienist Salary Ranking
| 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 | Varies by board |
| Missouri | $83,270 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | Varies by board |
| Tennessee | $81,810 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Mississippi | $66,290 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Louisiana | $80,900 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Texas | $94,490 | Specific course required | Both state and third-party exams required | Varies by board |
| Oklahoma | $95,860 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
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 | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Tennessee | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Mississippi | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Louisiana | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Texas | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
Arkansas Department of Health • Arkansas State Board of Dental Examiners
101 East Capitol Ave., Suite 111, Little Rock, AR, 72201
Phone: 5016822085
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|---|---|---|---|
| Acupuncturist | $78,140 | Degree required | 1-5 months |
| Anesthesiologist | N/A | Degree required | Varies by board |
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FAQ
How long does it take to become a Dental Hygienist in Arkansas?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about Varies by board, 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. 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/.
How often do you renew a Dental Hygienist license in Arkansas?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.