Application Fee
See agencyVerified by IA Board of Healthcare
Dental Hygienist Licensing in Iowa
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for dental hygienist in Iowa, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Both state and third-party exams requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Dental Hygienist in Iowa
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Register with licensing agency
- Education: Specific course required
- Examination: Both state and third-party exams required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Iowa Department of Public Health • Iowa Board of Dental Examiners
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$82,770 median (12% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#36 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 Iowa
With a median salary of 82,770, Dental Hygienists in Iowa earn 12% below the national median of $94,260. Iowa ranks #36 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$82,770Hourly estimate
$39.7912% below national median
Difference: -$11,490
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationDental Hygienist Salary Ranking
#36 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Iowa | $82,770 | Specific course required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Minnesota | $98,970 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Wisconsin | $83,850 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Illinois | $96,490 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $83,270 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Nebraska | $84,400 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| South Dakota | $84,300 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Iowa | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Minnesota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Wisconsin | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Illinois | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Missouri | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Nebraska | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Iowa Department of Public Health • Iowa Board of Dental Examiners
400 SW 8th St, Suite D, Des Moines, IA, 50309
Phone: 5152426369
Related Careers in Iowa
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $93,790 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $66,340 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $54,560 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $47,820 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Dental Hygienist in Iowa?
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 exams are required for Dental Hygienists in Iowa?
Iowa lists Both state and third-party exams required as part of the licensure process for Dental Hygienists.
What education do you need to become a Dental Hygienist in Iowa?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Dental Hygienist licensure in Iowa.
What is the typical Dental Hygienist salary in Iowa?
The median annual salary for Dental Hygienists in Iowa is 82,770. Salaries range from $78,270 (10th percentile) to $94,140 (90th percentile).
How does the Dental Hygienist salary in Iowa compare to the national average?
Dental Hygienists in Iowa earn 12% below the national median of $94,260, with a state median of 82,770.
How many Dental Hygienists work in Iowa?
Iowa employs approximately 2,020 Dental Hygienists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Dental Hygienist license to Iowa from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Dental Hygienists in Iowa?
The licensing agency is Iowa Department of Public Health / Iowa Board of Dental Examiners. Review agency details at https://dentalboard.iowa.gov/.