Washington, DC CE requirements at a glance
- CE hours required
- 20 hours every 2 years
- Renewal timing
- DC licenses expire December 31 of odd-numbered years. You earn CE during the two-year license period, and your first renewal is exempt.
- Required topics
- Infection control (2 hours)
- Ethics (1 hour)
- Cultural competency or LGBTQ-focused clinical training (2 hours)
- DC public health priority topics (at least 2 hours)
- CPR/BLS
- Required
Washington, DC requires current CPR/BLS certification to renew a dental hygiene license.
- Self-study and online limits
- All 20 hours can be approved online courses.
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 Washington, DC?
Washington, DC requires 20 hours of CE every 2 years, about 10 hours a year.
What CE topics are required in Washington, DC?
In Washington, DC, the required topics are infection control (2 hours), ethics (1 hour), cultural competency or LGBTQ-focused clinical training (2 hours), and DC public health priority topics (at least 2 hours). You also need current CPR/BLS certification.
Is CPR required to renew a dental hygiene license in Washington, DC?
Yes. Washington, DC requires current CPR/BLS certification to renew a dental hygiene license.
Can I do all my CE online in Washington, DC?
All 20 hours can be approved online courses. Live vs self-study CE, explained
When do dental hygiene licenses renew in Washington, DC?
DC licenses expire December 31 of odd-numbered years. You earn CE during the two-year license period, and your first renewal is exempt.
Sources
Last verified September 28, 2026.
- dcregs.dc.gov /Common/DCMR/RuleList.aspx
- adha.org /licensuremaps
Rules change. Confirm with the DC Board of Dentistry before you rely on them. Official board site