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Dental Hygienist License in Rhode Island

Your complete 2026 guide to obtaining and maintaining your Dental Hygienist license in RI. 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 Rhode Island.

Step 1·Complete Education

Finish an approved Dental Hygienist training program in Rhode Island.

Step 2·Gather Documents

Collect all 5 required documents for your RI application.

Step 3·Pass the Exam

Score passing marks on the NBDHE.

Step 4·Submit Application

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

Step 5·Receive License

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

How to Apply

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

Requirements

The Rhode Island 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. RI also requires a thorough background investigation and may request additional documentation depending on your specific circumstances.

Fees & Costs

Obtaining your Dental Hygienist license in Rhode Island requires a financial investment. The base licensing fee in RI 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 Rhode Island.

License Fee Calculator — Dental Hygienist in Rhode Island

Base License Fee$250
Estimated Total$250

Renewal Process

Rhode Island requires Dental Hygienist license holders to renew their credentials every 2 years. The renewal fee is $175 in RI. Continuing education requirements must be met before the renewal application is submitted. Rhode Island offers both online and mail-in renewal options for licensed professionals.

License Expiry Calculator — Dental Hygienist in RI

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

Additional Information

The demand for licensed Dental Hygienist professionals in Rhode Island continues to grow. RI offers a supportive regulatory environment that balances consumer protection with professional opportunity. The licensing board in Rhode Island provides online tools and resources to help applicants navigate the process efficiently. Many Dental Hygienist professionals in RI 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 Rhode Island 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 RI Dental Hygienist license. Full re-application required.
Alabama (AL) PartialAL requires additional exam or paperwork for RI license holders.
Arizona (AZ) NoneAZ does not recognize RI Dental Hygienist license. Full re-application required.
Arkansas (AR) FullAR accepts RI Dental Hygienist license via reciprocity agreement.
Colorado (CO) FullCO accepts RI Dental Hygienist license via reciprocity agreement.
Delaware (DE) FullDE accepts RI Dental Hygienist license via reciprocity agreement.
California (CA) FullCA accepts RI Dental Hygienist license via reciprocity agreement.
Florida (FL) PartialFL requires additional exam or paperwork for RI license holders.

Where to File Locally in Rhode Island

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

Providence

1511 Pontiac Ave, Cranston, RI 02920

(401) 462-9500

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

Warwick

3275 Post Rd, Warwick, RI 02886

(401) 738-2000

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

Cranston

869 Park Ave, Cranston, RI 02910

(401) 461-1000

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

Pawtucket

137 Roosevelt Ave, Pawtucket, RI 02860

(401) 728-0500

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

Newport

43 Broadway, Newport, RI 02840

(401) 845-5300

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

Official Rhode Island Resources

Always verify requirements directly with the Rhode Island 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.