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Dental Hygienist License in Colorado

Your complete 2026 guide to obtaining and maintaining your Dental Hygienist license in CO. Covers fees, exams, documents, and renewal.

Application Fee

$250

Processing Time

4-6 Weeks

Exam Required

NBDHE

Difficulty Level

Medium

Step-by-Step: How to Get Licensed

Follow these 5 steps to obtain your Dental Hygienist license in Colorado.

Step 1·Complete Education

Finish an approved Dental Hygienist training program in Colorado.

Step 2·Gather Documents

Collect all 5 required documents for your CO application.

Step 3·Pass the Exam

Score passing marks on the NBDHE.

Step 4·Submit Application

File your application with the Colorado licensing board and pay the $250 fee.

Step 5·Receive License

Processing takes 4-6 weeks in CO. Practice legally once approved.

How to Apply

The path to becoming a licensed Dental Hygienist in Colorado involves several key steps. First, complete an approved education program recognized by CO. Next, prepare for and successfully pass the NBDHE. Finally, gather your documentation and submit your license application through the Colorado state licensing portal.

Requirements

The Colorado licensing board sets clear requirements for aspiring Dental Hygienist professionals. These include age verification (minimum 18), completion of state-approved education, and passing the NBDHE. CO also requires a thorough background investigation and may request additional documentation depending on your specific circumstances.

Fees & Costs

Obtaining your Dental Hygienist license in Colorado requires a financial investment. The base licensing fee in CO is $250, which includes application processing and credential verification. Exam registration fees are separate and vary by testing center. Budget for approximately $400 total when accounting for all associated costs in Colorado.

License Fee Calculator — Dental Hygienist in Colorado

Base License Fee$250
Estimated Total$250

Renewal Process

License renewal for Dental Hygienist professionals in Colorado occurs on a 2-year cycle. CO charges a renewal fee of $175 and mandates continuing education as part of the renewal process. It is recommended to begin the renewal process in Colorado at least 60 days before your license expires to ensure uninterrupted practice.

License Expiry Calculator — Dental Hygienist in CO

Enter your license issue date to see when renewal is due. Colorado requires renewal every 2 years.

Additional Information

The demand for licensed Dental Hygienist professionals in Colorado continues to grow. CO offers a supportive regulatory environment that balances consumer protection with professional opportunity. The licensing board in Colorado provides online tools and resources to help applicants navigate the process efficiently. Many Dental Hygienist professionals in CO report high job satisfaction and competitive compensation.

Document Checklist — Dental Hygienist

0 of 5 documents ready

Frequently Asked Questions

License Reciprocity: Can I Use My Colorado Dental Hygienist License in Other States?

Reciprocity varies by state. Always verify with the destination state's licensing board before practicing.

Destination StateReciprocityNotes
Alaska (AK) NoneAK does not recognize CO Dental Hygienist license. Full re-application required.
Alabama (AL) NoneAL does not recognize CO Dental Hygienist license. Full re-application required.
Arizona (AZ) PartialAZ requires additional exam or paperwork for CO license holders.
Arkansas (AR) PartialAR requires additional exam or paperwork for CO license holders.
Delaware (DE) PartialDE requires additional exam or paperwork for CO license holders.
California (CA) PartialCA requires additional exam or paperwork for CO license holders.
Florida (FL) NoneFL does not recognize CO Dental Hygienist license. Full re-application required.
Iowa (IA) FullIA accepts CO Dental Hygienist license via reciprocity agreement.

Where to File Locally in Colorado

Visit a licensing department office near you for in-person assistance.

Denver

1560 Broadway, Denver, CO 80202

(303) 894-7855

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Colorado Springs

30 S Nevada Ave, Colorado Springs, CO 80903

(719) 385-5175

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Aurora

15151 E Alameda Pkwy, Aurora, CO 80012

(303) 739-7000

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Fort Collins

300 LaPorte Ave, Fort Collins, CO 80521

(970) 221-6500

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Boulder

1777 Broadway, Boulder, CO 80302

(303) 441-3388

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

Official Colorado Resources

Always verify requirements directly with the Colorado state board. Regulations may change.

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Disclaimer

US License Guide is a private informational resource and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to any federal, state, or local government agency. The information provided on this website is for general guidance purposes only and should not be considered legal or professional advice. Licensing requirements, fees, and procedures may change without notice. Always verify current requirements directly with your state's official licensing board before making any decisions. Use of this site does not create any professional-client relationship.