Application Fee
See agencyVerified by CA Board of Healthcare
Dental Hygienist Licensing in California
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for dental hygienist in California, 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 California
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
Department of Consumer Affairs • Dental Hygiene Committee of California
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$121,080 median (28% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#3 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 California
With a median salary of 121,080, Dental Hygienists in California earn 28% above the national median of $94,260. California ranks #3 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1.4%Average Weekly Wage
$1,758Median annual salary
$121,080Hourly estimate
$58.2128% above national median
Difference: +$26,820
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationDental Hygienist Salary Ranking
#3 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | $121,080 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Oregon | $118,280 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Nevada | $103,160 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Arizona | $97,530 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Oregon | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Nevada | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Arizona | 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
Department of Consumer Affairs • Dental Hygiene Committee of California
2005 Evergreen Street, Suite 1350, Sacramento, CA, 95815
Phone: 9162631978
Related Careers in California
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $123,600 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $85,080 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $71,920 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $48,910 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Dental Hygienist in California?
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 California?
The median annual salary for Dental Hygienists in California is 121,080. Salaries range from $56,330 (10th percentile) to $137,460 (90th percentile).
How does the Dental Hygienist salary in California compare to the national average?
Dental Hygienists in California earn 28% above the national median of $94,260, with a state median of 121,080.
How many Dental Hygienists work in California?
California employs approximately 22,940 Dental Hygienists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Dental Hygienist license to California 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 California?
The licensing agency is Department of Consumer Affairs / Dental Hygiene Committee of California. Review agency details at https://dhbc.ca.gov/.