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Dental Hygienist Licensing in Texas

Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for dental hygienist in Texas, including See agency and board contact links.

Last verified: Feb 12, 2026

Application Fee

See agency

Exam Requirement

Both state and third-party exams required

Renewal Cycle

See board renewal rules

Licensing Blueprint for Dental Hygienist in Texas

Estimated timeline: 6-24 months

Core Requirements

  • License Type: Stand-alone license
  • Education: Specific course required
  • Examination: Both state and third-party exams required
  • Application Fee: See agency
  • Experience: No experience required
  • Background Check: Specific type of conviction prohibited
  • Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license

Application Snapshot

  1. Licensing Authority

    Texas State Board of Dental Examiners

  2. Current Filing Fee

    See agency

  3. Renewal Cycle

    See board renewal rules

  4. Salary Position

    $94,490 median (0% above national)

  5. State Salary Rank

    #23 of 50 states

Step-by-Step Process (4)

  1. 1. Meet baseline eligibility requirements.
  2. 2. Complete approved education/training requirements.
  3. 3. Pass required exam(s) and submit application.
  4. 4. Maintain and renew license according to board rules.

Salary Insights in Texas

With a median salary of 94,490, Dental Hygienists in Texas earn 0% above the national median of $94,260. Texas ranks #23 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.

Median annual salary

$94,490

Hourly estimate

$45.43
0% above national median

Difference: +$230

Percentile Distribution

Annual compensation
  • P1010th percentile$48,390
  • P2525th percentile$82,830
  • P50Median$94,490
  • P7575th percentile$103,420
  • P9090th percentile$110,560

State vs National Median

State: $94,490
National: $94,260

Total employment: 16,010 | Annual openings: N/A

Dental Hygienist Salary Ranking

#23 of 50 statesfor Dental Hygienist median salary
RankStateMedian Salary
#1Alaska129,760
#2Washington125,370
#3California121,080
#4Oregon118,280
#5Colorado106,730

Nearby States Comparison

Dental Hygienist licensing across the region
StateMedian SalaryEducationExamTimeline
Texas$94,490Specific course requiredBoth state and third-party exams required6-24 months
Oklahoma$95,860Degree requiredThird-party exam required6-24 months
Arkansas$83,760Varies by state boardState-approved exam6-24 months
Louisiana$80,900Degree requiredThird-party exam required6-24 months
New Mexico$96,410Degree requiredBoth state and third-party exams required6-24 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.

StateReciprocity ScoreTierNotes
Texas50LowState-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required.
Oklahoma50LowState-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required.
Arkansas78HighBoard-specific review required.
Louisiana50LowState-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required.
New Mexico50LowState-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

Texas State Board of Dental Examiners

1801 Congress Ave, Ste 8.600, Austin, TX, 78701

Phone: 5124636400

Related Careers in Texas

ProfessionMedian SalaryEducationTimeline
Audiologist$103,460Degree required6-24 months
Chiropractor$87,130Degree required6-24 months
Clinical Lab Technologist$54,840Degree required6-24 months
Dental Assistant$42,270Specific course required6-24 months

FAQ

How long does it take to become a Dental Hygienist in Texas?

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 Texas?

Texas 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 Texas?

The board typically expects Specific course required for Dental Hygienist licensure in Texas.

What is the typical Dental Hygienist salary in Texas?

The median annual salary for Dental Hygienists in Texas is 94,490. Salaries range from $48,390 (10th percentile) to $110,560 (90th percentile).

How does the Dental Hygienist salary in Texas compare to the national average?

Dental Hygienists in Texas earn 0% above the national median of $94,260, with a state median of 94,490.

How many Dental Hygienists work in Texas?

Texas employs approximately 16,010 Dental Hygienists according to BLS data.

Can I transfer my Dental Hygienist license to Texas 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 Texas?

The licensing agency is Texas State Board of Dental Examiners. Review agency details at http://tsbde.texas.gov/.