Florida Dental Hygienist Requirements

If you’re interested in becoming a dental hygienist in Florida, knowing the specific requirements and steps can help you navigate the process smoothly. Like every state, Florida has specific guidelines for dental hygienists, and understanding them is the key to starting your career in this innovative field.

1. Meet the Age Requirements: To become a dental hygienist in Florida, you must be at least 18 years old.

2. Education: You have to graduate from a dental hygiene college or program approved by the Florida Board of Dentistry or accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of the American Dental Association (ADA). If you do graduate from an unaccredited dental college or program, you have to complete a minimum of 4 years of postsecondary education and receive a diploma comparable to a D.D.S. or D.M.D.

3. Examinations: You must complete the following examinations:

• Dental Hygiene National Board Examination
• ADEX Dental Hygiene Licensing Examination
• Florida Laws and Rules Examination.

4. Submission of Documents: To become a licensed dental hygienist, you have to submit the following documents: National Board Dental Hygiene Examination scores sent directly from the American Dental Association.
   • Final official transcripts sent directly from the registrar’s office, indicating matriculation date, graduation date, degree earned, and embossed with the school seal.
   • Certification of licensure from each state where you currently hold or have held a dental or dental hygiene license, stating that your license is in good standing.
   • Proof of up-to-date training in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) at the basic support level.

By meeting these state requirements, you can become a licensed dental hygienist in Florida. If you have a passion for helping others and are interested in dental hygiene, Florida offers you a clear path to achieving your goals.