Dental Hygienist in Virginia
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for VA
How to Become a Dental Hygienist in Virginia
To become a licensed Dental Hygienist in Virginia, you must graduate from a CODA-accredited dental hygiene program and pass both the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE) and a clinical examination acceptable to the Virginia Board of Dentistry. As of January 1, 2023, the Board only accepts the ADEX exam for licensure by examination. Additionally, applicants must maintain a current Healthcare Provider level BLS/CPR certification with a hands-on component. Virginia has joined the Dentist and Dental Hygienist Compact, which will facilitate reciprocity with other participating states once fully implemented.
Dental Hygienist Requirements in Virginia
| Detail | Virginia |
|---|---|
| Licensing Body | Virginia 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) and a clinical examination acceptable to the Board (as of January 1, 2023, the Board only accepts the ADEX exam for licensure by examination) |
| Application Fee | $175 |
| Renewal | Every 1.0 year |
| Continuing Education | 15.0 hours per cycle |
| Notes | CPR certification (Healthcare Provider level BLS/CPR with hands-on component) is required. Renewal is annual by March 31. Applicants must be of good moral character and pass a criminal background check. There is no minimum age specified for licensure, but a dental hygienist may administer Schedule VI local anesthesia to persons 18 years of age or older. |
Source: Virginia Board of Dentistry
Dental Hygienist Salary in Virginia
The median dental hygienist salary in Virginia is $98,880 per year, which is 4.9% above the national median of $94,260.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $79,980 |
| 25th | $90,160 |
| 50th (median) | $98,880 |
| 75th | $108,270 |
| 90th (experienced) | $121,950 |
Virginia employs approximately 3,580 dental hygienists.
Dental Hygienist Job Outlook
Is Becoming a Dental Hygienist in Virginia Worth It?
Factors to consider: Virginia's cost of living, the state licensing requirement, strong job growth, and your personal career goals.