Steps to get licensed in Hawaii
- Graduate from a two-year CODA-accredited dental hygiene program.
- Pass the NBDHE.
- Pass all sections of the ADEX or CRDTS clinical exam.
- Document training in infiltration and block local anesthesia from your program or a board-approved course.
- Apply to the Hawaii Board of Dentistry with exam results sent directly to the board.
Board exams for Hawaii licensure
Every state requires the written National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE). For the hands-on clinical exam, Hawaii 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
Hawaii doesn't require a separate jurisprudence exam for a first dental hygiene license.
- Local anesthesia
- Part of licensure
Hawaii doesn't issue a separate permit. Instead, you document training in infiltration and block anesthesia when you apply for your license.
Moving to Hawaii with a license from another state
Hawaii isn't a member of the Dentist and Dental Hygienist Compact.
If you're already licensed in another state, ask the Hawaii Board of Dentistry 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 Hawaii?
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 2 schools with dental hygiene programs in Hawaii, 1 offers an associate degree and 1 offers a bachelor's degree. After you graduate, you pass the NBDHE and a clinical exam, then the Hawaii Board of Dentistry reviews your application. Dental hygiene schools in Hawaii
Can I transfer my dental hygiene license to Hawaii?
Not automatically. Hawaii isn't in the Dentist and Dental Hygienist Compact. If you're already licensed in another state, ask the Hawaii Board of Dentistry about licensure by credentials (also called endorsement or reciprocity). How to get a dental hygiene license
Does Hawaii require a jurisprudence exam?
No. Hawaii doesn't require a separate jurisprudence exam for a first dental hygiene license.
Can dental hygienists give local anesthesia in Hawaii?
Hawaii doesn't issue a separate permit. Instead, you document training in infiltration and block anesthesia when you apply for your license.
Which clinical exams does Hawaii accept?
Hawaii accepts ADEX or CRDTS. Dental hygiene board exam guide
Sources
Last verified August 31, 2026.
- cca.hawaii.gov /wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Require-Instruct-A…
- cca.hawaii.gov /pvl/boards/dentist/board-of-dentistry-applica…
- law.justia.com /codes/hawaii/title-25/chapter-447/section-447-1
- adextesting.org /adex-acceptance-map
- crdts.org /srta
Rules change. Confirm with the Hawaii Board of Dentistry before you rely on them. Official board site