Application Fee
See agencyVerified by PA Board of Healthcare
Dental Hygienist Licensing in Pennsylvania
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for dental hygienist in Pennsylvania, 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 Pennsylvania
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: Felony convictions prohibited
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of State • Bureau of Professional & Occupational Affairs • Dentistry Board
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$81,510 median (14% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#43 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 Pennsylvania
With a median salary of 81,510, Dental Hygienists in Pennsylvania earn 14% below the national median of $94,260. Pennsylvania ranks #43 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$81,510Hourly estimate
$39.1914% below national median
Difference: -$12,750
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationDental Hygienist Salary Ranking
#43 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pennsylvania | $81,510 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| New York | $95,560 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| New Jersey | $102,600 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Delaware | $99,720 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Maryland | $105,140 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| West Virginia | $72,670 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Ohio | $81,620 | Degree 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pennsylvania | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| New York | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| New Jersey | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Delaware | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Maryland | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| West Virginia | 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
Department of State • Bureau of Professional & Occupational Affairs • Dentistry Board
P.O. Box 2649, Harrisburg, PA, 17105-2649
Phone: 7177837162
Related Careers in Pennsylvania
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $87,210 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $75,610 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $61,520 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $48,290 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Dental Hygienist in Pennsylvania?
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 Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania?
The board typically expects Degree required for Dental Hygienist licensure in Pennsylvania.
What is the typical Dental Hygienist salary in Pennsylvania?
The median annual salary for Dental Hygienists in Pennsylvania is 81,510. Salaries range from $63,230 (10th percentile) to $102,030 (90th percentile).
How does the Dental Hygienist salary in Pennsylvania compare to the national average?
Dental Hygienists in Pennsylvania earn 14% below the national median of $94,260, with a state median of 81,510.
How many Dental Hygienists work in Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania employs approximately 8,640 Dental Hygienists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Dental Hygienist license to Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania?
The licensing agency is Department of State / Bureau of Professional & Occupational Affairs / Dentistry Board. Review agency details at https://www.dos.pa.gov/ProfessionalLicensing/BoardsCommissions/Dentistry/Pages/default.aspx.