California CE requirements at a glance
- CE units required
- 25 units every 2 years
- Renewal timing
- California licenses renew every two years and expire on the last day of your birth month.
- Required topics
- California Dental Practice Act
- Infection control
- CPR/BLS
- Required
California requires current CPR/BLS certification to renew a dental hygiene license.
- Self-study and online limits
- No more than half (12.5 of 25 units) can be correspondence or self-study, and you can count no more than 8 units a day.
New to CE? Our dental hygienist continuing education guide explains what counts, live vs self-study, and audits.
Frequently asked questions
How many CE hours do dental hygienists need in California?
California requires 25 units of CE every 2 years, about 12.5 units a year.
What CE topics are required in California?
In California, the required topics are California Dental Practice Act and infection control. You also need current CPR/BLS certification.
Is CPR required to renew a dental hygiene license in California?
Yes. California requires current CPR/BLS certification to renew a dental hygiene license.
Can I do all my CE online in California?
No more than half (12.5 of 25 units) can be correspondence or self-study, and you can count no more than 8 units a day. Live vs self-study CE, explained
When do dental hygiene licenses renew in California?
California licenses renew every two years and expire on the last day of your birth month.
Sources
Last verified August 31, 2026.
- dhbc.ca.gov /licensees/ce_units_required.shtml
- adha.org /licensuremaps
Rules change. Confirm with the Dental Hygiene Board of California before you rely on them. Official board site