Dental Hygienist License (RDH) in Florida
This guide details the process of becoming a licensed Dental Hygienist in Florida, covering prerequisites to job placement. The journey can take between 4 to 20 weeks, depending on the training schedule, and costs range from $800 to $2,500. Key steps include meeting prerequisites, completing state-approved training, passing the licensure exam, and obtaining state certification.
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The career of a Dental Hygienist in Florida presents a promising opportunity, combining a substantial median salary of $80,530 per year with a projected job growth of 7.0% by 2034. These figures not only reflect the increasing demand for dental hygienists but also highlight the stability and financial viability of this profession in the state. With 221,600 workers nationally in this role, the future looks encouraging for those entering this field, especially in a state like Florida where the aging population may require more dental care.
Florida offers a unique environment for dental hygienists due to specific state regulations and a diverse healthcare setting. The state mandates a comprehensive licensing process, which ensures that all practicing dental hygienists meet strict professional standards. Florida's large retiree population contributes to a consistent demand for dental services, often focusing on geriatric dental issues, which can differ significantly from those of younger demographics. Major employers in the state include large healthcare facilities, private dental practices, and specialty clinics focusing on cosmetic dentistry, all providing varied opportunities for employment.
This guide provides a detailed walkthrough of obtaining a Dental Hygienist License (RDH) in Florida, including the essential steps for certification, from educational requirements to passing the necessary examinations. It outlines the salary expectations based on current data and discusses the job market to help prospective dental hygienists make informed career decisions. By the end of this guide, readers will have a clear understanding of the path to becoming a licensed dental hygienist in Florida and what to expect in terms of professional opportunities and potential earnings.
Licensing Authority
Florida Department of Health, Division of Medical Quality Assurance
In Florida, dental hygienists must obtain a license from the Florida Department of Health. This involves meeting educational requirements, passing a licensure examination, and completing a background check.
Official Resources
Florida Requirements
Training Requirements
- Education
- Associate degree or higher in dental hygiene from an accredited program
- Total Training Hours
- 88 hours
- Classroom Hours
- 58 hours
- Clinical Hours
- 30 hours
- Minimum Age
- 18 years old
Additional Requirements
- Background check (State and federal) with fingerprinting
- CPR certification
Certification Exam
- Exam
- National Board Dental Hygiene Examination
- Components
- Written, Skills demonstration
- Fee
- Varies
How to Become a Dental Hygienist License in Florida
tuition $500-$2,000, exam fee $200, background check $50, application fee $50, textbooks/supplies $0-$200, scrubs $0-$50
Fastest Path
4-6 weeks
Typical Timeline
8-12 weeks
Estimated Cost
$800–$2,500
Verify You Meet Florida's Prerequisites
Before starting your training, confirm you meet the basic requirements for becoming a Dental Hygienist in Florida. You must be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or GED, and be in good health. Visit the Florida Board of Dentistry's website to download the checklist for prerequisites and ensure you meet all health, education, and legal standards. Processing this step usually takes 1-2 days.
Tip
Order your high school transcript online through Parchment.com ($15) to avoid a 2-week mail delay from your school's registrar office.
Complete Background Check and Health Screenings
Florida requires a comprehensive background check including FBI and FDLE (Florida Department of Law Enforcement) fingerprinting. Schedule an appointment with a LiveScan service provider, found on the Florida Department of Health's website. You'll also need to provide recent TB test results and may require a physical exam. Results typically take 2-3 weeks to process.
Tip
Schedule your fingerprinting and TB test close together to streamline the process.
Research and Choose an Approved Training Program
Select a state-approved training program for Dental Hygienists in Florida. These programs meet specific state educational criteria and are necessary for licensure. Visit the American Dental Association's website to find accredited programs in Florida. Attending a non-approved program means you cannot sit for the licensure exam, wasting time and money.
Tip
Check for programs with flexible schedules if you need to balance training with other commitments.
Enroll in and Complete Training
Once you've chosen a program, enroll and complete the required 88 hours of training, consisting of 58 classroom hours and 30 clinical hours. Ensure the program provides a balanced approach to both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Upon completion, you'll receive a certificate necessary for the licensure exam application.
Tip
Ensure the program's schedule matches your availability to avoid conflicts.
Prepare for the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE)
The NBDHE is a mandatory exam for dental hygienists in Florida. It includes 350 multiple-choice questions covering various aspects of dental hygiene. Register for the exam through the Joint Commission on National Dental Examinations website. Use study guides and practice exams to prepare. The exam fee is typically around $200.
Tip
Focus on sections of the exam that are historically more challenging, such as periodontology and pharmacology.
Register for and Schedule the Exam
After preparing for the exam, schedule your test date through Pearson VUE, the testing vendor. Choose a date and location that gives you ample time to review and travel. Ensure you have all necessary identification and confirmation materials on the day of the exam.
Tip
Choose an exam date that allows for at least one full day off before the test for final review and rest.
Take and Pass the Exam
On the day of the exam, arrive early with two forms of identification and your exam confirmation. The NBDHE lasts approximately 4 hours. If you fail, you can reschedule after 90 days. Passing the exam is crucial for advancing to the next step of obtaining your license.
Tip
Get a good night's sleep before the exam and arrive early to avoid any last-minute stress.
Apply for State Certification/Registry
After passing the exam, apply for your Dental Hygienist license through the Florida Board of Dentistry. This involves submitting your exam results, training certificates, and an application fee of $50. Processing can take 2-4 weeks. Once approved, your license will be posted on the Florida Health License Portal.
Tip
Double-check your application for any errors to avoid delays in processing.
Receive Your Certification and Verify on State Registry
Once your application is processed and approved, you will receive your Dental Hygienist license. Verify your license status on the Florida Health License Portal to ensure all information is correct. This step is crucial before beginning your job search as employers will verify your licensure through this portal.
Tip
Regularly check the portal for updates on your license status during the processing period.
Find Your First Job
With your license verified, start your job search. Utilize online job boards, networking events, and local dental clinics to find employment opportunities. Prepare your resume to highlight your training, certification, and any practical experience. Consider negotiating your salary based on the average for Florida Dental Hygienists.
Tip
Tailor your resume for each job application to better align with the specific needs of employers.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- •Attending a training program not on the Florida Board of Nursing approved list. You will complete the program but be unable to sit for the state competency exam, wasting both your time and tuition money.
What to Expect on Exam Day
National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE) administered by Joint Commission on National Dental Examinations (JCNDE) administered by Pearson VUE
Written Test
Questions: 350
Time Limit: 4 hours
Format: Multiple choice
Passing Score: 75%
- • Scientific Basis for Dental Hygiene Practice: 25%
- • Provision of Clinical Dental Hygiene Services: 50%
- • Community Health/Research Principles: 25%
Skills Test
Skills Tested: N/A
Time Per Skill: N/A
No skills test component for the NBDHE.
What to Bring
- ✓ Two forms of identification, one with a recent photograph
- ✓ Authorization to Test letter (ATT)
- ✓ Several No. 2 pencils
- ✓ Erasers
Do Not Bring
- ✗ Personal electronic devices including mobile phones and smart watches
- ✗ Notes or study materials
- ✗ Food or drink, except for water in a clear bottle
Day-of Timeline
Arrive 30 minutes early. Check-in takes 15 minutes. Written test is 4 hours. No scheduled breaks.
Getting Your Results
Results are available through the online portal within four weeks of the exam date.
If You Don't Pass
You can retake the exam after 90 days. The cost of a retake is the same as the initial test. There is no limit on the number of attempts in Florida.
Exam Strategies
- 1. Focus on time management, aiming to answer questions within roughly one minute each.
- 2. Prioritize questions from the Provision of Clinical Dental Hygiene Services as it accounts for 50% of the exam.
- 3. Use process of elimination for multiple-choice questions to narrow down choices.
- 4. Mark questions you are unsure about for review if time permits.
Document Checklist
Every document you need from start to finish
1Before Training
High School Diploma or GED
From your high school or GED program · Varies · 1-2 weeks
Official transcripts may be required; check with your education program.
Immunization Records
From your healthcare provider · Potential cost for copies · 1-3 days
Ensure all vaccinations are up-to-date, including Hepatitis B and MMR.
CPR Certification
American Heart Association or Red Cross · $50-$100 · Varies by course availability
Must be a healthcare provider level certification.
TB Test Results
From a local clinic or healthcare provider · $20-$50 · 2-3 days
Some programs require testing to be done annually.
2During Training
Enrollment Verification
From the dental hygiene program · No cost · Immediate
Needed for various externships and internships.
Clinical Requirements Documentation
From the dental hygiene program · No cost · Varies
Document your clinical hours and experiences as required by the program.
Liability Insurance
Through your educational institution or a private provider · $30-$100 annually · 1-2 days
Required for clinical practice; may be provided by the school.
3For the Exam
Application for National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE)
Joint Commission on National Dental Examinations website · $400
Register early to secure a desired date and location.
Proof of Eligibility to Test
From your dental hygiene program · No cost
Verification of education completion or last semester status.
Government-Issued Photo ID
State Department of Motor Vehicles · Varies by state
Needed for identity verification at the testing center.
4For Certification
Application for Licensure
Florida Board of Dentistry website · $100-$200
Complete all sections and submit with the required fee.
Official Transcripts
From your dental hygiene program · $5-$15 per copy
Request sealed transcripts to be sent directly to the board.
Proof of Passing the NBDHE
From the Joint Commission on National Dental Examinations · No additional cost
Scores are typically sent directly to the state board.
Proof of CPR Certification
From the certifying organization · No additional cost
Ensure certification is current and accepted by the board.
Fingerprinting and Background Check
Approved vendor by Florida Board of Dentistry · $75-$100
Required for initial licensure; follow specific instructions from the board.
After You're Certified: What's Next
Verify your license status on the Florida Board of Dentistry website. Ensure your information is correct and print a copy of your license for your records.
Finding Your First Job
Where to Look
- • Indeed.com, iHireDental, DentalPost.net, and the Florida Dental Association job board
Best Employers for New Grads
- • Private dental practices, dental clinics, hospitals, and community health centers. Private practices often offer more personalized environments, while hospitals may provide broader benefits and higher job security.
Resume Tip: Highlight any clinical rotations, relevant coursework, and soft skills like communication and empathy. Include any volunteer experience in dental or health services.
Interview Tip: Expect questions about patient handling, infection control procedures, dental health maintenance, and how you deal with stressful situations. Prepare to discuss how you stay updated with dental hygiene practices.
Expected First-Year Salary
The typical salary range for a new RDH in Florida is between $55,000 and $72,000 annually, depending on location and type of employer.
Career Advancement Path
Dental Hygiene Educator or Public Health Specialist
Advanced degrees like a Bachelor's or Master's in Dental Hygiene or Public Health, and certifications specific to education or public health roles.
Challenges to Prepare For
- • Adapting to different dentist preferences and office protocols, managing a full schedule of patients efficiently, staying updated with the latest in dental technology and hygiene practices.
Dental Hygienist License Salary in Florida
In Florida, the median salary for dental hygienists is $80,530 per year or $38.72 per hour, which is lower than the national median. This comparison highlights a potential wage disparity for dental hygienists working in Florida.
Entry Level
$65,110
0-1 years experience
Median Salary
$80,530
$38.72/hr · Bureau of Labor Statistics
Experienced
$95,000
5+ years experience
Compared to National Median
$87,530 national · -8.0% in Florida
Salary by Metro Area
Slightly below state median
Close to state median
Slightly above state median
Salary by Employer Type
The salary of dental hygienists in Florida is modestly aligned with the state's cost of living, which is generally lower than many other states with higher dental hygienist salaries.
Benefits & Compensation
Typical benefits include health insurance, dental coverage, retirement plans, and paid time off. Some employers may also offer continuing education support.
Salary Growth Outlook
Salary growth for dental hygienists in Florida is expected to align with national trends, potentially increasing with experience, advanced certifications, and population growth.
Salary Negotiation Tips
- •Research average salaries in your specific Florida metro area
- •Consider total compensation including benefits and work-life balance
Job Market in Florida
In Florida, the job market for Dental Hygienists (RDH) is experiencing growth aligned with the national average. The state's large retiree population drives demand for dental services, reflecting a consistent need for dental hygienists. Urban areas, in particular, show robust hiring activity due to the concentration of dental practices and healthcare facilities.
Top Hiring Areas
High concentration of dental clinics and healthcare centers.
Growing healthcare sector and aging population.
Expansion of healthcare facilities and tourism-related healthcare needs.
Top Hiring Industries
Best time to apply: Early spring and late fall, aligning with hiring cycles in the healthcare sector
Opportunities
- Rising demand in suburban and rural areas
- Technological advancements in dental care
Challenges
- Competitive job market in urban areas
- Requirement for continuous education and certification
Training Programs in Florida
Florida offers a variety of accredited Dental Hygienist training programs, primarily through community colleges and vocational schools. These programs prepare students for the RDH licensure exam.
Program Types Comparison
| Type | Duration | Cost | Format | Pros / Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Community College | 2 years | $10,000 - $20,000 | In-person/Hybrid |
|
| Vocational/Trade School | 18-24 months | $15,000 - $25,000 | In-person/Hybrid |
|
| Employer-Sponsored | Varies | Free/Paid training | On-the-job |
|
Top Programs
Miami, Florida
High licensure exam pass rate and extensive clinical practice
Orlando, Florida
Strong emphasis on hands-on clinical experience
Online & Hybrid Options
Hybrid programs available, combining online theoretical studies with in-person clinical practice.
How to Choose a Program
- •Verify program accreditation to ensure eligibility for licensure exams.
Financial Aid & Free Training
Get free Dental Hygienist License program info for Florida
Renewal Requirements
Renewal Period
Every 2 years
Renewal Fee
$75
CE Hours
24 hours
Work requirement: None specified
CE Topics: Infection control, Florida laws and rules, Medical error prevention
Out-of-State Reciprocity
Florida offers licensure by endorsement for dental hygienists licensed in other states, provided they meet Florida's standards and have practiced for at least 2 years.
Requirements for Reciprocity
- Proof of current license in another state
- Completion of Florida laws and rules exam
State Agreements
All U.S. states, provided licensure requirements are met
Additional Exams
Florida laws and rules exam
Application Process
Submit an application for licensure by endorsement, including all required documentation and fees.
Fees
Varies
Processing Time: 4-6 weeks
Licensing Tips
Ensure all transcripts and documents are sent directly from the educational institution to the Florida Department of Health.
Schedule the required exams well in advance to avoid delays.
Recommended Resources
Mosby's Comprehensive Review of Dental Hygiene
This book offers a thorough set of practice exams and review materials tailored for the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination.
Dental Hygiene Exam Prep by Mometrix
Provides a detailed review and practice questions specifically designed to prepare students for the NBDHE and state licensure exams.
Darby's Comprehensive Review of Dental Hygiene
This book is known for its detailed content that covers all aspects of dental hygiene, from basic science to clinical practices.
Modern Dental Assisting
Includes up-to-date content on dental practices and technologies, serving as a useful reference for both students and practicing hygienists.
Dental Hygiene Instruments Kit
Contains essential tools like scalers and curettes, critical for hands-on training and clinical examinations.
Protective Eyewear
Ensures safety during clinical procedures, protecting eyes from debris and harmful substances.
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Sources
- Bureau of Labor StatisticsAccessed 2026-02-12
- Florida Licensing BoardAccessed 2026-02-12
- CareerOneStopAccessed 2026-02-12