Dental Hygienist in Arizona
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for AZ
How to Become a Dental Hygienist in Arizona
To become a licensed Dental Hygienist in Arizona, applicants must graduate from a CODA-accredited dental hygiene program, pass the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE), and a regional clinical exam (such as ADEX, WREB, CRDTS, SRTA, CITA). Additionally, candidates must pass the Arizona Dental Jurisprudence Examination and obtain a valid fingerprint clearance card. Arizona offers pathways for licensure by credential or universal license recognition for those already licensed in other states, provided they meet specific practice hour or residency requirements.
Dental Hygienist Requirements in Arizona
| Detail | Arizona |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | Arizona State Board of Dental Examiners |
| State License Required | Yes |
| Education | Associate degree in Dental Hygiene from a CODA-accredited program |
| Exam | National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE) and a regional clinical exam (WREB, CRDTS, SRTA, CITA, ADEX) ($1,150) |
| Application Fee | $1,000 |
| Renewal | Every 3.0 years |
| Continuing Education | 45.0 hours per cycle |
| Notes | Minimum age 18. Requires passing the Arizona Dental Jurisprudence Examination ($100 fee) and a valid fingerprint clearance card. CPR certification required as part of CE. At least 3 hours in chemical dependency, tobacco cessation, ethics, risk management, or Arizona dental jurisprudence. At least 3 hours in infectious diseases or infectious disease control. At least 3 hours in CPR (healthcare provider level). If administering Botox or dermal fillers, 12 CE hours in those topics are required within the 45 hours. License expires 30 days after the licensee's birth month every third year. |
Dental Hygienist Salary in Arizona
The median dental hygienist salary in Arizona is $97,530 per year, which is 3.5% above the national median of $94,260.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $84,190 |
| 25th | $93,900 |
| 50th (median) | $97,530 |
| 75th | $98,860 |
| 90th (experienced) | $102,170 |
Arizona employs approximately 5,040 dental hygienists.
Dental Hygienist Job Outlook
Is Becoming a Dental Hygienist in Arizona Worth It?
Factors to consider: Arizona's cost of living, the state licensing requirement, strong job growth, and your personal career goals.