Steps to get licensed in Idaho
- Graduate from a CODA-accredited dental hygiene program.
- Pass the NBDHE.
- Pass the ADEX or CRDTS clinical exam within five years of applying.
- Pass a board-approved local anesthesia exam with written and clinical parts.
- Hold current BLS certification.
- Apply online, then pass the jurisprudence exam (75% to pass) that the board emails you.
Board exams for Idaho licensure
Every state requires the written National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE). For the hands-on clinical exam, Idaho 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
Idaho requires a jurisprudence exam on its dental laws and rules for your first license. You need 75% to pass and you take it after you apply.
- Local anesthesia
- Part of licensure
Idaho doesn't issue a separate permit. Passing a board-approved local anesthesia exam, with written and clinical parts, is part of getting your license.
Moving to Idaho with a license from another state
Idaho isn't a member of the Dentist and Dental Hygienist Compact.
If you're already licensed in another state, ask the Idaho 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 Idaho?
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 Idaho, 3 offer an associate degree and 1 offers a bachelor's degree. After you graduate, you pass the NBDHE, a clinical exam, and the jurisprudence exam, then the Idaho Board of Dentistry reviews your application. Dental hygiene schools in Idaho
Can I transfer my dental hygiene license to Idaho?
Not automatically. Idaho isn't in the Dentist and Dental Hygienist Compact. If you're already licensed in another state, ask the Idaho Board of Dentistry about licensure by credentials (also called endorsement or reciprocity). How to get a dental hygiene license
Does Idaho require a jurisprudence exam?
Yes. Idaho requires a jurisprudence exam on its dental laws and rules for your first license. You need 75% to pass and you take it after you apply.
Can dental hygienists give local anesthesia in Idaho?
Idaho doesn't issue a separate permit. Passing a board-approved local anesthesia exam, with written and clinical parts, is part of getting your license.
Which clinical exams does Idaho accept?
Idaho accepts ADEX or CRDTS. Dental hygiene board exam guide
Sources
Last verified August 31, 2026.
- dopl.idaho.gov /bod
- legislature.idaho.gov /statutesrules/idstat/title54/t54ch9/sect54-918
- adextesting.org /adex-acceptance-map
- adha.org /wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Overview_Clinical_…
- crdts.org /srta
Rules change. Confirm with the Idaho Board of Dentistry before you rely on them. Official board site