Application Fee
See agencyDental Hygienist Licensing in Montana
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for dental hygienist in Montana, 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 Montana
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: No criminal record prohibitions
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Board of Dentistry
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$94,740 median (1% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#22 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 Montana
With a median salary of 94,740, Dental Hygienists in Montana earn 1% above the national median of $94,260. Montana ranks #22 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$94,740Hourly estimate
$45.55Difference: +$480
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Montana | $94,740 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| North Dakota | $83,010 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| South Dakota | $84,300 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Wyoming | $82,220 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Idaho | $84,990 | Degree required | State 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Montana | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| North Dakota | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| South Dakota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Wyoming | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Idaho | 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
Board of Dentistry
301 South Park, 4th Floor, PO Box 200513, Helena, MT, 59620-0513
Phone: 4068412390
Related Careers in Montana
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $82,350 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $76,490 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $65,290 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $45,820 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Dental Hygienist in Montana?
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 Montana?
Montana 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 Montana?
The board typically expects Degree required for Dental Hygienist licensure in Montana.
What is the typical Dental Hygienist salary in Montana?
The median annual salary for Dental Hygienists in Montana is 94,740. Salaries range from $80,440 (10th percentile) to $101,410 (90th percentile).
How does the Dental Hygienist salary in Montana compare to the national average?
Dental Hygienists in Montana earn 1% above the national median of $94,260, with a state median of 94,740.
How many Dental Hygienists work in Montana?
Montana employs approximately 950 Dental Hygienists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Dental Hygienist license to Montana 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 Montana?
The licensing agency is Board of Dentistry. Review agency details at http://boards.bsd.dli.mt.gov/den.