How to Apply
If you are looking to start your career as a Dental Hygienist in North Carolina, the licensing process begins with education. NC mandates specific coursework before you can sit for the NBDHE. Upon passing the exam, you can proceed to file your application with the appropriate North Carolina regulatory board.
Requirements
North Carolina has specific requirements for Dental Hygienist licensure that applicants must fulfill. You must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid government-issued identification. Educational requirements include completing an accredited program relevant to provide preventive dental care and oral health education. A clean background check is mandatory in NC, and you must demonstrate good moral character. The NBDHE must be passed with a minimum score set by the North Carolina board.
Fees & Costs
Obtaining your Dental Hygienist license in North Carolina requires a financial investment. The base licensing fee in NC 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 North Carolina.
License Fee Calculator — Dental Hygienist in North Carolina
Renewal Process
Your Dental Hygienist license in North Carolina must be renewed every 2 years. The renewal fee in NC is $175. North Carolina requires completion of continuing education credits before renewal. Submit your renewal application at least 30 days before expiration to avoid late fees. Practicing with an expired license in NC can result in fines and disciplinary action.
License Expiry Calculator — Dental Hygienist in NC
Enter your license issue date to see when renewal is due. North Carolina requires renewal every 2 years.
Additional Information
Working as a Dental Hygienist in North Carolina offers numerous opportunities for career growth and professional development. NC has a robust job market for licensed professionals in this field. The state board actively works to streamline the licensing process while maintaining rigorous standards. North Carolina also participates in interstate licensing compacts, which may facilitate practice across state lines for qualified Dental Hygienist professionals.
Document Checklist — Dental Hygienist
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Frequently Asked Questions
License Reciprocity: Can I Use My North Carolina Dental Hygienist License in Other States?
Reciprocity varies by state. Always verify with the destination state's licensing board before practicing.
| Destination State | Reciprocity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Alaska (AK) | None | AK does not recognize NC Dental Hygienist license. Full re-application required. |
| Alabama (AL) | Full | AL accepts NC Dental Hygienist license via reciprocity agreement. |
| Arizona (AZ) | None | AZ does not recognize NC Dental Hygienist license. Full re-application required. |
| Arkansas (AR) | Partial | AR requires additional exam or paperwork for NC license holders. |
| Colorado (CO) | Partial | CO requires additional exam or paperwork for NC license holders. |
| Delaware (DE) | Partial | DE requires additional exam or paperwork for NC license holders. |
| California (CA) | None | CA does not recognize NC Dental Hygienist license. Full re-application required. |
| Florida (FL) | Partial | FL requires additional exam or paperwork for NC license holders. |
Where to File Locally in North Carolina
Visit a licensing department office near you for in-person assistance.
Raleigh
1202 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, NC 27699
(919) 202-3600
Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Charlotte
600 E 4th St, Charlotte, NC 28202
(704) 336-2241
Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Greensboro
300 W Washington St, Greensboro, NC 27401
(336) 373-2000
Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Durham
101 City Hall Plaza, Durham, NC 27701
(919) 560-4000
Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Winston-Salem
101 N Main St, Winston-Salem, NC 27101
(336) 727-2000
Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Official North Carolina Resources
Always verify requirements directly with the North Carolina state board. Regulations may change.
North Carolina Licensing Board
https://www.nclbgc.org
Contact Phone
(919) 202-3600
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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.