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Dental Hygienist License in Wisconsin

Your complete 2026 guide to obtaining and maintaining your Dental Hygienist license in WI. 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 Wisconsin.

Step 1·Complete Education

Finish an approved Dental Hygienist training program in Wisconsin.

Step 2·Gather Documents

Collect all 5 required documents for your WI application.

Step 3·Pass the Exam

Score passing marks on the NBDHE.

Step 4·Submit Application

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

Step 5·Receive License

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

How to Apply

Getting licensed as a Dental Hygienist in Wisconsin starts with meeting the educational prerequisites set by the WI licensing authority. Once you have completed your training, you will need to register for and pass the NBDHE. After passing, submit your application along with all required documents to the Wisconsin state board.

Requirements

To qualify for Dental Hygienist licensure in Wisconsin, candidates must satisfy several prerequisites. WI mandates completion of an approved training program, successful passage of the NBDHE, and a clean criminal background check. Additional requirements may include proof of residency and professional references as determined by the Wisconsin regulatory authority.

Fees & Costs

Obtaining your Dental Hygienist license in Wisconsin requires a financial investment. The base licensing fee in WI 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 Wisconsin.

License Fee Calculator — Dental Hygienist in Wisconsin

Base License Fee$250
Estimated Total$250

Renewal Process

Your Dental Hygienist license in Wisconsin must be renewed every 2 years. The renewal fee in WI is $175. Wisconsin 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 WI can result in fines and disciplinary action.

License Expiry Calculator — Dental Hygienist in WI

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

Additional Information

Working as a Dental Hygienist in Wisconsin offers numerous opportunities for career growth and professional development. WI 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. Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin 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) PartialAK requires additional exam or paperwork for WI license holders.
Alabama (AL) NoneAL does not recognize WI Dental Hygienist license. Full re-application required.
Arizona (AZ) PartialAZ requires additional exam or paperwork for WI license holders.
Arkansas (AR) NoneAR does not recognize WI Dental Hygienist license. Full re-application required.
Colorado (CO) NoneCO does not recognize WI Dental Hygienist license. Full re-application required.
Delaware (DE) NoneDE does not recognize WI Dental Hygienist license. Full re-application required.
California (CA) PartialCA requires additional exam or paperwork for WI license holders.
Florida (FL) NoneFL does not recognize WI Dental Hygienist license. Full re-application required.

Where to File Locally in Wisconsin

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

Madison

4822 Madison Yards Way, Madison, WI 53705

(608) 266-2112

Mon-Fri 7:45 AM - 4:30 PM

Milwaukee

200 E Wells St, Milwaukee, WI 53202

(414) 286-2200

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

Green Bay

100 N Jefferson St, Green Bay, WI 54301

(920) 448-3000

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

Kenosha

625 52nd St, Kenosha, WI 53140

(262) 653-4000

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

Racine

730 Washington Ave, Racine, WI 53403

(262) 636-9151

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

Official Wisconsin Resources

Always verify requirements directly with the Wisconsin 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.