Application Fee
See agencyVerified by TN Board of Healthcare
Dental Hygienist Licensing in Tennessee
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for dental hygienist in Tennessee, 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 Tennessee
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Register with licensing agency
- Education: Specific course required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See agency
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: Background check required
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Health • Division of Health Related Boards • Division of Health Related Boards
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$81,810 median (13% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#40 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 Tennessee
With a median salary of 81,810, Dental Hygienists in Tennessee earn 13% below the national median of $94,260. Tennessee ranks #40 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$81,810Hourly estimate
$39.3313% below national median
Difference: -$12,450
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationDental Hygienist Salary Ranking
#40 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tennessee | $81,810 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Kentucky | $77,440 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Virginia | $98,880 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| North Carolina | $89,720 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Georgia | $83,500 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Alabama | $59,840 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Mississippi | $66,290 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Arkansas | $83,760 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $83,270 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tennessee | 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. |
| Virginia | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| North Carolina | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Georgia | 29 | Low | Limited or restricted active licensing status. State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Alabama | 78 | High | Board-specific review 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 Health • Division of Health Related Boards • Division of Health Related Boards
665 Mainstream Drive 2nd floor, Nashville, TN, 37243
Phone: 6155325073
Agency website was unavailable in source data, using official search fallback.
Related Careers in Tennessee
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $89,670 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $79,240 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $57,760 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $46,090 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Dental Hygienist in Tennessee?
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 Tennessee?
Tennessee 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 Tennessee?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Dental Hygienist licensure in Tennessee.
What is the typical Dental Hygienist salary in Tennessee?
The median annual salary for Dental Hygienists in Tennessee is 81,810. Salaries range from $65,460 (10th percentile) to $97,460 (90th percentile).
How does the Dental Hygienist salary in Tennessee compare to the national average?
Dental Hygienists in Tennessee earn 13% below the national median of $94,260, with a state median of 81,810.
How many Dental Hygienists work in Tennessee?
Tennessee employs approximately 4,550 Dental Hygienists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Dental Hygienist license to Tennessee 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 Tennessee?
The licensing agency is Department of Health / Division of Health Related Boards / Division of Health Related Boards.