North Carolina CE requirements at a glance
- CE hours required
- 6 hours every year
- Renewal timing
- North Carolina licenses renew every year. Renewal is due January 1, you can renew without a penalty through January 31, and licenses not renewed by March 31 become void.
- Required topics
- Substance abuse and mental health
- Local anesthesia (if you're certified)
- CPR/BLS
- Required
North Carolina requires current CPR/BLS certification to renew a dental hygiene license.
- Self-study and online limits
- All 6 hours can be online or correspondence courses that include a post-test and a certificate. Courses must relate directly to patient care.
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 North Carolina?
North Carolina requires 6 hours of CE every year.
What CE topics are required in North Carolina?
In North Carolina, the required topics are substance abuse and mental health, and local anesthesia (if you're certified). You also need current CPR/BLS certification.
Is CPR required to renew a dental hygiene license in North Carolina?
Yes. North Carolina requires current CPR/BLS certification to renew a dental hygiene license.
Can I do all my CE online in North Carolina?
All 6 hours can be online or correspondence courses that include a post-test and a certificate. Courses must relate directly to patient care. Live vs self-study CE, explained
When do dental hygiene licenses renew in North Carolina?
North Carolina licenses renew every year. Renewal is due January 1, you can renew without a penalty through January 31, and licenses not renewed by March 31 become void.
Sources
Last verified September 28, 2026.
- ncdentalboard.org /continuing_education.htm
- adha.org /licensuremaps
Rules change. Confirm with the North Carolina State Board of Dental Examiners before you rely on them. Official board site