Application Fee
See agencyVerified by WV Board of Healthcare
Dental Hygienist Licensing in West Virginia
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for dental hygienist in West 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 West 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
DENTAL EXAMINERS
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$72,670 median (23% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#48 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 West Virginia
With a median salary of 72,670, Dental Hygienists in West Virginia earn 23% below the national median of $94,260. West Virginia ranks #48 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$72,670Hourly estimate
$34.9423% below national median
Difference: -$21,590
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationDental Hygienist Salary Ranking
#48 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| West Virginia | $72,670 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Pennsylvania | $81,510 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Maryland | $105,140 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Virginia | $98,880 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Kentucky | $77,440 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Ohio | $81,620 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| West Virginia | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Pennsylvania | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Maryland | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| 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. |
| Ohio | 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
DENTAL EXAMINERS
See official licensing board website
Phone: 8779148266
Related Careers in West Virginia
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audiologist | $87,980 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Chiropractor | $77,780 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Clinical Lab Technologist | $60,240 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Dental Assistant | $37,330 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Dental Hygienist in West 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 West Virginia?
West 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 West Virginia?
The board typically expects Degree required for Dental Hygienist licensure in West Virginia.
What is the typical Dental Hygienist salary in West Virginia?
The median annual salary for Dental Hygienists in West Virginia is 72,670. Salaries range from $54,080 (10th percentile) to $83,830 (90th percentile).
How does the Dental Hygienist salary in West Virginia compare to the national average?
Dental Hygienists in West Virginia earn 23% below the national median of $94,260, with a state median of 72,670.
How many Dental Hygienists work in West Virginia?
West Virginia employs approximately 1,220 Dental Hygienists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Dental Hygienist license to West 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 West Virginia?
The licensing agency is DENTAL EXAMINERS. Review agency details at http://www.wvdentalboard.org/.