Application Fee
See agencyVerified by LA Board of Healthcare
Dental Hygienist Licensing in Louisiana
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for dental hygienist in Louisiana, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Dental Hygienist in Louisiana
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: Specific type of conviction prohibited
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals • Louisiana State Board of Dentistry
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$80,900 median (14% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#46 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 Louisiana
With a median salary of 80,900, Dental Hygienists in Louisiana earn 14% below the national median of $94,260. Louisiana ranks #46 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$80,900Hourly estimate
$38.8914% below national median
Difference: -$13,360
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationDental Hygienist Salary Ranking
#46 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Louisiana | $80,900 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Arkansas | $83,760 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Mississippi | $66,290 | 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 |
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Louisiana | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Arkansas | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Mississippi | 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.
- 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
Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals • Louisiana State Board of Dentistry
1201 North Third Street, Suite G-136, Baton Rouge, LA, 70802
Phone: 5045688574
Related Careers in Louisiana
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $75,740 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $97,450 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $56,980 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $38,150 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Dental Hygienist in Louisiana?
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 Louisiana?
Louisiana lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Dental Hygienists.
What education do you need to become a Dental Hygienist in Louisiana?
The board typically expects Degree required for Dental Hygienist licensure in Louisiana.
What is the typical Dental Hygienist salary in Louisiana?
The median annual salary for Dental Hygienists in Louisiana is 80,900. Salaries range from $43,230 (10th percentile) to $99,230 (90th percentile).
How does the Dental Hygienist salary in Louisiana compare to the national average?
Dental Hygienists in Louisiana earn 14% below the national median of $94,260, with a state median of 80,900.
How many Dental Hygienists work in Louisiana?
Louisiana employs approximately 2,720 Dental Hygienists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Dental Hygienist license to Louisiana 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 Louisiana?
The licensing agency is Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals / Louisiana State Board of Dentistry. Review agency details at https://www.lsbd.org/.