Application Fee
See agencyVerified by MO Board of Healthcare
Dental Hygienist Licensing in Missouri
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for dental hygienist in Missouri, 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 Missouri
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Both state and third-party exams required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Missouri Department of Commerce and Insurance • Division Of Professional Registration • Missouri State Dental Board
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$83,270 median (12% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#33 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 Missouri
With a median salary of 83,270, Dental Hygienists in Missouri earn 12% below the national median of $94,260. Missouri ranks #33 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$83,270Hourly estimate
$40.0312% below national median
Difference: -$10,990
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationDental Hygienist Salary Ranking
#33 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Missouri | $83,270 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Iowa | $82,770 | Specific course required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Illinois | $96,490 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Kentucky | $77,440 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $81,810 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Arkansas | $83,760 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Oklahoma | $95,860 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Kansas | $82,060 | 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 |
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Missouri | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Iowa | 56 | Medium | 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. |
| Kentucky | 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. |
| Arkansas | 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
Missouri Department of Commerce and Insurance • Division Of Professional Registration • Missouri State Dental Board
3605 Missouri Boulevard, P.O. Box 1367, Jefferson City, MO, 65102-1367
Phone: 5737510040ext8007352966
Related Careers in Missouri
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $87,840 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $61,020 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $57,460 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $45,220 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Dental Hygienist in Missouri?
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 Missouri?
Missouri 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 Missouri?
The board typically expects Degree required for Dental Hygienist licensure in Missouri.
What is the typical Dental Hygienist salary in Missouri?
The median annual salary for Dental Hygienists in Missouri is 83,270. Salaries range from $78,070 (10th percentile) to $102,390 (90th percentile).
How does the Dental Hygienist salary in Missouri compare to the national average?
Dental Hygienists in Missouri earn 12% below the national median of $94,260, with a state median of 83,270.
How many Dental Hygienists work in Missouri?
Missouri employs approximately 2,840 Dental Hygienists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Dental Hygienist license to Missouri 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 Missouri?
The licensing agency is Missouri Department of Commerce and Insurance / Division Of Professional Registration / Missouri State Dental Board. Review agency details at http://pr.mo.gov/dental.asp.