Application Fee
See agencyVerified by RI Board of Healthcare
Dental Hygienist Licensing in Rhode Island
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for dental hygienist in Rhode Island, 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 Rhode Island
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
RI Department of Health • Board of Denistry
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$82,870 median (12% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#35 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 Rhode Island
With a median salary of 82,870, Dental Hygienists in Rhode Island earn 12% below the national median of $94,260. Rhode Island ranks #35 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$82,870Hourly estimate
$39.8412% below national median
Difference: -$11,390
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationDental Hygienist Salary Ranking
#35 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island | $82,870 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Massachusetts | $100,790 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Connecticut | $96,270 | No educational requirements | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Massachusetts | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Connecticut | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
- 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
RI Department of Health • Board of Denistry
3 Capitol Hill, Room 205, Providence, RI, 02908
Phone: 4012222837
Related Careers in Rhode Island
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $80,530 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $79,210 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $81,220 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $48,060 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Dental Hygienist in Rhode Island?
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 Rhode Island?
Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island?
The board typically expects Degree required for Dental Hygienist licensure in Rhode Island.
What is the typical Dental Hygienist salary in Rhode Island?
The median annual salary for Dental Hygienists in Rhode Island is 82,870. Salaries range from $81,680 (10th percentile) to $86,380 (90th percentile).
How does the Dental Hygienist salary in Rhode Island compare to the national average?
Dental Hygienists in Rhode Island earn 12% below the national median of $94,260, with a state median of 82,870.
How many Dental Hygienists work in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island employs approximately 850 Dental Hygienists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Dental Hygienist license to Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island?
The licensing agency is RI Department of Health / Board of Denistry. Review agency details at https://health.ri.gov/licenses/detail.php?id=251.