Steps to get licensed in Alabama
- Graduate from a CODA-accredited dental hygiene program or the Alabama Dental Hygiene Program (ADHP).
- Pass the NBDHE.
- Pass the ADEX or CRDTS clinical exam within five years of applying.
- Apply with your transcript, exam scores, CPR card, and infection control training records.
- Complete the background check and citizenship verification.
- After the board approves your application at a monthly meeting, pass the online jurisprudence exam.
Board exams for Alabama licensure
Every state requires the written National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE). For the hands-on clinical exam, Alabama accepts ADEX or CRDTS.
The American Board of Dental Examiners (ADEX) exam. It was formerly given through CDCA-WREB-CITA, which included WREB and CITA.
The Central Regional Dental Testing Service exam. SRTA has merged into CRDTS.
Our dental hygiene board exam guide covers how the NBDHE works, how it's scored, and how to study.
Jurisprudence exam and local anesthesia
- Jurisprudence exam
- Required
Alabama requires a jurisprudence exam on its dental laws and rules for your first license. You take it after you apply.
- Local anesthesia
- Separate credential
Alabama issues a separate dental hygiene infiltration anesthesia permit. You qualify after 12 months of active practice and a 32-hour board-approved course, and you give it under a dentist's direct supervision.
Moving to Alabama with a license from another state
Alabama isn't a member of the Dentist and Dental Hygienist Compact.
If you're already licensed in another state, ask the Board of Dental Examiners of Alabama about licensure by credentials (also called endorsement or reciprocity). Our guide to getting a dental hygiene license explains how it usually works.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to become a dental hygienist in Alabama?
About 3 years. BLS says dental hygiene programs usually take 3 years. ADEA puts the average associate degree program at 2 years, and most applicants finish prerequisite courses first. Of the 3 schools with dental hygiene programs in Alabama, all offer an associate degree. After you graduate, you pass the NBDHE, a clinical exam, and the jurisprudence exam, then the Board of Dental Examiners of Alabama reviews your application. Dental hygiene schools in Alabama
Can I transfer my dental hygiene license to Alabama?
Not automatically. Alabama isn't in the Dentist and Dental Hygienist Compact. If you're already licensed in another state, ask the Board of Dental Examiners of Alabama about licensure by credentials (also called endorsement or reciprocity). How to get a dental hygiene license
Does Alabama require a jurisprudence exam?
Yes. Alabama requires a jurisprudence exam on its dental laws and rules for your first license. You take it after you apply.
Can dental hygienists give local anesthesia in Alabama?
Alabama issues a separate dental hygiene infiltration anesthesia permit. You qualify after 12 months of active practice and a 32-hour board-approved course, and you give it under a dentist's direct supervision.
Which clinical exams does Alabama accept?
Alabama accepts ADEX or CRDTS. Dental hygiene board exam guide
Sources
Last verified August 31, 2026.
- dentalboard.org /state-licensure-applications
- dentalboard.org /wp-content/uploads/2026/02/BDEAL-DENTAL-HYGIE…
- law.justia.com /codes/alabama/title-34/chapter-9/article-3/se…
- adextesting.org /adex-acceptance-map
- adha.org /wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Overview_Clinical_…
- crdts.org /srta
Rules change. Confirm with the Board of Dental Examiners of Alabama before you rely on them. Official board site