Application Fee
See agencyVerified by VA Board of Healthcare
Dental Hygienist Licensing in Virginia
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for dental hygienist in Virginia, 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 Virginia
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
Virginia Department of Health • Office of Emergency Medical Services
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$98,880 median (5% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#13 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 Virginia
With a median salary of 98,880, Dental Hygienists in Virginia earn 5% above the national median of $94,260. Virginia ranks #13 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$98,880Hourly estimate
$47.545% above national median
Difference: +$4,620
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationDental Hygienist Salary Ranking
#13 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Virginia | $98,880 | 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 |
| Kentucky | $77,440 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Tennessee | $81,810 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| North Carolina | $89,720 | Degree required | Third-party 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Virginia | 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. |
| Kentucky | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Tennessee | 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. |
- 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
Virginia Department of Health • Office of Emergency Medical Services
1041 Technology Park Drive, Glen Allen, VA, 23059-4500
Phone: 8048889100
Related Careers in Virginia
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $85,590 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $94,140 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $60,720 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $46,910 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Dental Hygienist in Virginia?
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 Virginia?
Virginia 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 Virginia?
The board typically expects Degree required for Dental Hygienist licensure in Virginia.
What is the typical Dental Hygienist salary in Virginia?
The median annual salary for Dental Hygienists in Virginia is 98,880. Salaries range from $79,980 (10th percentile) to $121,950 (90th percentile).
How does the Dental Hygienist salary in Virginia compare to the national average?
Dental Hygienists in Virginia earn 5% above the national median of $94,260, with a state median of 98,880.
How many Dental Hygienists work in Virginia?
Virginia employs approximately 3,580 Dental Hygienists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Dental Hygienist license to Virginia 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 Virginia?
The licensing agency is Virginia Department of Health / Office of Emergency Medical Services. Review agency details at https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/emergency-medical-services/education-certification/provider-resources/how-to-become-an-emergency-medical-services-provider-in-virginia/.