Steps to get licensed in Connecticut
- Graduate from a CODA-accredited dental hygiene program.
- Pass the NBDHE.
- Pass the ADEX or CRDTS clinical exam.
- Have your transcript, NBDHE report, and clinical exam report sent directly to the Department of Public Health.
- Apply online and send license verifications from every state where you've been licensed.
Board exams for Connecticut licensure
Every state requires the written National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE). For the hands-on clinical exam, Connecticut 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
- Not required
Connecticut doesn't require a separate jurisprudence exam for a first dental hygiene license.
- Local anesthesia
- Training only
Connecticut doesn't issue a separate certificate. You need a CODA-accredited course with 20 hours of didactic and 8 hours of clinical training, and you keep the records in case the state asks. You can then give infiltration and mandibular block anesthesia under indirect supervision.
Moving to Connecticut with a license from another state
Connecticut isn't a member of the Dentist and Dental Hygienist Compact.
If you're already licensed in another state, ask the Connecticut Department of Public Health 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 Connecticut?
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 4 schools with dental hygiene programs in Connecticut, all offer an associate degree and 2 offer a bachelor's degree. After you graduate, you pass the NBDHE and a clinical exam, then the Connecticut Department of Public Health reviews your application. Dental hygiene schools in Connecticut
Can I transfer my dental hygiene license to Connecticut?
Not automatically. Connecticut isn't in the Dentist and Dental Hygienist Compact. If you're already licensed in another state, ask the Connecticut Department of Public Health about licensure by credentials (also called endorsement or reciprocity). How to get a dental hygiene license
Does Connecticut require a jurisprudence exam?
No. Connecticut doesn't require a separate jurisprudence exam for a first dental hygiene license.
Can dental hygienists give local anesthesia in Connecticut?
Connecticut doesn't issue a separate certificate. You need a CODA-accredited course with 20 hours of didactic and 8 hours of clinical training, and you keep the records in case the state asks. You can then give infiltration and mandibular block anesthesia under indirect supervision.
Which clinical exams does Connecticut accept?
Connecticut accepts ADEX or CRDTS. Dental hygiene board exam guide
Sources
Last verified August 31, 2026.
- portal.ct.gov /dph/practitioner-licensing--investigations/de…
- portal.ct.gov /dph/practitioner-licensing--investigations/de…
- cga.ct.gov /current/PUB/chap_379a.htm
- adextesting.org /adex-acceptance-map
- adha.org /wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Overview_Clinical_…
- crdts.org /srta
Rules change. Confirm with the Connecticut Department of Public Health before you rely on them. Official board site