How to Get Your U.S. Dental Hygiene License as a Foreign-Trained Dentist:
- Lauren
- Apr 16
- 2 min read
If you're a dentist trained outside the United States and considering a career as a dental hygienist in the U.S., this guide will help you understand the steps involved in obtaining licensure.
Why Consider Dental Hygiene in the U.S.?
Transitioning to dental hygiene can be a strategic move for foreign-trained dentists. It allows you to:
Earn a stable income almost immediately without additional schooling.
Gain clinical experience in the U.S. dental system while pursuing dental school.
Build professional networks within the American dental community.
Where Can You Practice as a Dental Hygienist Without Additional Schooling?
For foreign-trained dentists aiming to practice as dental hygienists in the U.S. without enrolling in a U.S.-based dental hygiene program, options are limited. Most states require graduation from a Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) accredited dental hygiene program. However, one state, Florida, allows foreign trained dentist to apply for a dental hygiene license if they meet specific criteria:
Educational Background: Graduation from a dental school (even if unaccredited by CODA) with at least four years of postsecondary education, culminating in a degree comparable to a D.D.S. or D.M.D.
Examinations Needed:
National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE) or National Board Dental Examination (NBDE) Part I and II.
ADEX Dent al Hygiene Clinical Examination.
Florida Laws and Rules Examination.
Additional Requirements:
Submission of official transcripts and credential evaluations.
Current CPR certification.
Completion of background checks and fingerprinting.
What Are The Steps To Getting Your Dental Hygiene License?
If you're a foreign-trained dentist considering this pathway:
Research the state requirements by visiting the Florida Board of Dentistry to understand their specific licensure requirements.
Have your academic credentials evaluated by an approved agency to determine equivalency with U.S. standards.
Study for and pass the required examinations.
Submit all necessary documentation, including transcripts, proof of examinations passed, CPR certification, and background checks.
How Florida RDH Pathway Can Assist You:
Eligibility Assessment: We evaluate your educational background to determine if it aligns with Florida's licensure requirements.
Exam Preparation Guidance: Receive detailed information and resources to help you prepare for necessary exams, including the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE), ADEX Clinical Exam, and Florida Laws and Rules Exam.
Document Organization: Assistance in compiling and submitting essential documents such as transcripts, credential evaluations, and CPR certifications.
Application Support: Guidance through the application process, including fingerprinting and background checks.
Our goal is to provide you with the support and resources needed to successfully obtain your dental hygiene license in Florida. If you're ready to take the next step in your professional journey, we're here to help. To get started on your path to licensure, check out our services page to learn more.
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