Application Fee
See agencyVerified by SC Board of Healthcare
Dental Hygienist Licensing in South Carolina
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for dental hygienist in South Carolina, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 17, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Dental Hygienist in South Carolina
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Varies by state board.
- 2
License Type: Register with licensing agency.
Exam and processing details
- State-approved exam
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
SC Board of Dentistry
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$81,710 median (13% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#41 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet South Carolina eligibility requirements for Dental Hygienist licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training (Education: Varies by state board.).
- 3. Pass required examination steps: State-approved exam.
- 4. Submit the application to SC Board of Dentistry and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in South Carolina
With a median salary of $81,710, Dental Hygienists in South Carolina earn 13% below the national median of $94,260. South Carolina ranks #41 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1.3%Average Weekly Wage
$1,186Median annual salary
$81,710Hourly estimate
$39.2813% below national median
Difference: -$12,550
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationDental Hygienist Salary Ranking
#41 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| South Carolina | $81,710 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| North Carolina | $89,720 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Georgia | $83,500 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| South Carolina | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| North Carolina | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Georgia | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
SC Board of Dentistry
110 Centerview Drive Kingstree Bldg. Suite 202, PO Box 11329, Columbia, SC, 29211-1329
Phone: 8038964599
Related Careers in South Carolina
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acupuncturist | $78,140 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Anesthesiologist | $229,870 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Athletic Trainer | $53,520 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Audiologist | $75,980 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Dental Hygienist in South Carolina?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about Varies by board, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What is the typical Dental Hygienist salary in South Carolina?
The median annual salary for Dental Hygienists in South Carolina is $81,710. Salaries range from $63,950 (10th percentile) to $94,810 (90th percentile).
How does the Dental Hygienist salary in South Carolina compare to the national average?
Dental Hygienists in South Carolina earn 13% below the national median of $94,260, with a state median of $81,710.
How many Dental Hygienists work in South Carolina?
South Carolina employs approximately 3,200 Dental Hygienists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Dental Hygienist license to South Carolina from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Dental Hygienists in South Carolina?
The licensing agency is SC Board of Dentistry. Review agency details at http://www.llr.state.sc.us/POL/Dentistry.
How often do you renew a Dental Hygienist license in South Carolina?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.