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Dental Hygienist License in West Virginia

Your complete 2026 guide to obtaining and maintaining your Dental Hygienist license in WV. 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 West Virginia.

Step 1·Complete Education

Finish an approved Dental Hygienist training program in West Virginia.

Step 2·Gather Documents

Collect all 5 required documents for your WV application.

Step 3·Pass the Exam

Score passing marks on the NBDHE.

Step 4·Submit Application

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

Step 5·Receive License

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

How to Apply

If you are looking to start your career as a Dental Hygienist in West Virginia, the licensing process begins with education. WV mandates specific coursework before you can sit for the NBDHE. Upon passing the exam, you can proceed to file your application with the appropriate West Virginia regulatory board.

Requirements

West Virginia 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 WV, and you must demonstrate good moral character. The NBDHE must be passed with a minimum score set by the West Virginia board.

Fees & Costs

West Virginia sets the Dental Hygienist license application fee at $250. This is a one-time fee for new applicants in WV. Additional costs may include fingerprinting fees, background check fees, and exam registration. The total out-of-pocket cost for new licensees in West Virginia typically ranges from $250 to $450.

License Fee Calculator — Dental Hygienist in West Virginia

Base License Fee$250
Estimated Total$250

Renewal Process

License renewal for Dental Hygienist professionals in West Virginia occurs on a 2-year cycle. WV 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 West Virginia at least 60 days before your license expires to ensure uninterrupted practice.

License Expiry Calculator — Dental Hygienist in WV

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

Additional Information

Working as a Dental Hygienist in West Virginia offers numerous opportunities for career growth and professional development. WV 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. West Virginia also participates in interstate licensing compacts, which may facilitate practice across state lines for qualified Dental Hygienist professionals.

Document Checklist — Dental Hygienist

0 of 5 documents ready

Frequently Asked Questions

License Reciprocity: Can I Use My West Virginia 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 WV Dental Hygienist license. Full re-application required.
Alabama (AL) NoneAL does not recognize WV Dental Hygienist license. Full re-application required.
Arizona (AZ) PartialAZ requires additional exam or paperwork for WV license holders.
Arkansas (AR) PartialAR requires additional exam or paperwork for WV license holders.
Colorado (CO) NoneCO does not recognize WV Dental Hygienist license. Full re-application required.
Delaware (DE) PartialDE requires additional exam or paperwork for WV license holders.
California (CA) PartialCA requires additional exam or paperwork for WV license holders.
Florida (FL) NoneFL does not recognize WV Dental Hygienist license. Full re-application required.

Where to File Locally in West Virginia

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

Charleston

1900 Kanawha Blvd E, Charleston, WV 25305

(304) 558-6000

Mon-Fri 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM

Huntington

800 5th Ave, Huntington, WV 25701

(304) 696-5540

Mon-Fri 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM

Morgantown

389 Spruce St, Morgantown, WV 26505

(304) 284-7400

Mon-Fri 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM

Parkersburg

1 Government Square, Parkersburg, WV 26101

(304) 424-8500

Mon-Fri 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM

Wheeling

1500 Chapline St, Wheeling, WV 26003

(304) 234-3600

Mon-Fri 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM

Official West Virginia Resources

Always verify requirements directly with the West Virginia 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.