Application Fee
See agencyVerified by OH Board of Healthcare
Dental Hygienist Licensing in Ohio
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for dental hygienist in Ohio, 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 Ohio
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: No experience required
- Background Check: Background check required
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Ohio State Dental Board
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$81,620 median (13% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#42 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 Ohio
With a median salary of 81,620, Dental Hygienists in Ohio earn 13% below the national median of $94,260. Ohio ranks #42 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$81,620Hourly estimate
$39.2413% below national median
Difference: -$12,640
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationDental Hygienist Salary Ranking
#42 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ohio | $81,620 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Michigan | $80,990 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Pennsylvania | $81,510 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| West Virginia | $72,670 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Kentucky | $77,440 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Indiana | $90,290 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ohio | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Michigan | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Pennsylvania | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| West Virginia | 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. |
| Indiana | 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
Ohio State Dental Board
77 S. High Street, 17th Floor, Columbus, OH, 43215-6135
Phone: 6144662580
Related Careers in Ohio
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $76,720 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $81,110 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $62,890 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $47,330 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Dental Hygienist in Ohio?
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 Ohio?
Ohio 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 Ohio?
The board typically expects Degree required for Dental Hygienist licensure in Ohio.
What is the typical Dental Hygienist salary in Ohio?
The median annual salary for Dental Hygienists in Ohio is 81,620. Salaries range from $71,520 (10th percentile) to $99,490 (90th percentile).
How does the Dental Hygienist salary in Ohio compare to the national average?
Dental Hygienists in Ohio earn 13% below the national median of $94,260, with a state median of 81,620.
How many Dental Hygienists work in Ohio?
Ohio employs approximately 8,500 Dental Hygienists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Dental Hygienist license to Ohio 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 Ohio?
The licensing agency is Ohio State Dental Board. Review agency details at https://www.dental.ohio.gov/.