Dental Hygienist in New Jersey
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for NJ
How to Become a Dental Hygienist in New Jersey
To become a licensed Dental Hygienist in New Jersey, individuals must complete an Associate degree in Dental Hygiene from a CODA-accredited program. Applicants must successfully pass the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE), the ADEX dental hygiene examination (or another Board-approved regional clinical exam), and the New Jersey Jurisprudence Exam. The licensing body is the New Jersey State Board of Dentistry, and a criminal history background check and CPR certification are also required.
Dental Hygienist Requirements in New Jersey
| Detail | New Jersey |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | New Jersey State Board of Dentistry |
| State License Required | Yes |
| Education | Associate degree in Dental Hygiene from a CODA-accredited program |
| Exam | National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE), the ADEX dental hygiene examination (or other Board-approved regional clinical exam), and the New Jersey Jurisprudence Exam |
| Application Fee | $75 |
| Renewal | Every 2.0 years |
| Continuing Education | 20.0 hours per cycle |
| Notes | Minimum age of 18 years old. Requires a criminal history background check and CPR certification. Renewal is by December 31 of odd-numbered years. If licensed in the first year of the biennial period, 10 CE hours are required for the first renewal. If licensed in the second year, CE is exempt for the first renewal. Reciprocity is possible for licensees from other states who meet specific criteria, including having a current license in good standing and having passed a comparable clinical examination. New Jersey is also considering joining the Dentist and Dental Hygienist Compact. |
Dental Hygienist Salary in New Jersey
The median dental hygienist salary in New Jersey is $102,600 per year, which is 8.8% above the national median of $94,260.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $84,050 |
| 25th | $97,510 |
| 50th (median) | $102,600 |
| 75th | $103,640 |
| 90th (experienced) | $105,480 |
New Jersey employs approximately 6,030 dental hygienists.
Dental Hygienist Job Outlook
Is Becoming a Dental Hygienist in New Jersey Worth It?
Factors to consider: New Jersey's cost of living, the state licensing requirement, strong job growth, and your personal career goals.