Dental Hygienist in Wisconsin
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for WI
Median Salary
$83,850
Wisconsin (2024)
National Median
$94,260
All states
License Fees
$135
Exam + application
Time to Complete
3-5 years (including education and licensing process)
From start to licensed
How to Become a Dental Hygienist in Wisconsin
To become a licensed Dental Hygienist in Wisconsin, applicants must graduate from a CODA-accredited dental hygiene program and pass the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE), a regional clinical exam (such as CDCA-WREB-CITA), and the Wisconsin Jurisprudence Exam. The licensing body is the Wisconsin Dentistry Examining Board. Additionally, applicants need current CPR certification and must undergo a background check. Wisconsin is also part of the Dentist and Dental Hygienist Compact, which allows for a streamlined pathway to practice in other participating states.
Dental Hygienist Requirements in Wisconsin
| Detail | Wisconsin |
|---|
| Licensing Body | Wisconsin Dentistry Examining Board |
| State License Required |
Yes
|
| Education | Associate degree in Dental Hygiene from a CODA-accredited program |
| Exam |
National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE), a regional clinical exam (CRDTS, WREB, SRTA, CITA, ADEX), and the Wisconsin Jurisprudence Exam ($75) |
| Application Fee | $60 |
| Renewal | Every 2.0 years |
| Continuing Education | 12.0 hours per cycle |
| Notes | CPR certification is required. A background check is also required. Renewal is by September 30 of odd-numbered years. Minimum age is 18 years old. |
Source: Wisconsin Dentistry Examining Board
Dental Hygienist Salary in Wisconsin
The median dental hygienist salary in Wisconsin is
$83,850 per year,
which is
11.0% below
the national median of $94,260.
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|
| 10th (entry level) | $69,880 |
| 25th | $80,080 |
| 50th (median) | $83,850 |
| 75th | $94,990 |
| 90th (experienced) | $102,150 |
Wisconsin employs approximately 5,620 dental hygienists.
Dental Hygienist Job Outlook
10-Year Growth
+7.0%
Faster than average
Annual Openings
15.3
Nationwide per year
Total Employment
221.6
Nationwide
Is Becoming a Dental Hygienist in Wisconsin Worth It?
Factors to consider: Wisconsin's cost of living,
the state licensing requirement,
strong job growth,
and your personal career goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I become a dental hygienist in Wisconsin?
The path to dental hygienist licensure in Wisconsin: complete the required education (Associate degree in Dental Hygiene from a CODA-accredited program), pass the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE), a regional clinical exam (CRDTS, WREB, SRTA, CITA, ADEX), and the Wisconsin Jurisprudence Exam, and submit your application ($60 fee).
Do I need a license to work as a dental hygienist in Wisconsin?
A state license is required in Wisconsin. Wisconsin Dentistry Examining Board handles dental hygienist licensing — the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE), a regional clinical exam (CRDTS, WREB, SRTA, CITA, ADEX), and the Wisconsin Jurisprudence Exam is part of the process.
How much does a dental hygienist make in Wisconsin?
dental hygienists in Wisconsin earn a median of $83,850 annually. — 11% under the $94,260 national average. New dental hygienists start around $69,880; seasoned professionals can reach $102,150.
How expensive is dental hygienist licensing in Wisconsin?
The full cost to enter the field runs about varies, factoring in exam fee ($75) and application fee ($60) and required training.
What's the timeline to become a dental hygienist in Wisconsin?
Expect to spend 3-5 years (including education and licensing process) from start to finish in Wisconsin — covering coursework, supervised experience, and examination.
What are the continuing education requirements for dental hygienists in Wisconsin?
Yes — dental hygienists in Wisconsin must complete 12.0 CE hours every 2.0 years to stay licensed.