Steps to get licensed in Illinois
- Complete at least two academic years at a CODA-accredited dental hygiene program.
- Pass the NBDHE.
- Pass the ADEX or CRDTS clinical exam (within five years if you've never been licensed elsewhere).
- Hold current BLS certification from the American Red Cross, AHA, or ASHI.
- Apply through IDFPR's online licensing system, with scores sent directly from the testing agencies.
Board exams for Illinois licensure
Every state requires the written National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE). For the hands-on clinical exam, Illinois 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
Illinois doesn't require a separate jurisprudence exam for a first dental hygiene license.
- Local anesthesia
- Training only
Illinois doesn't issue a separate permit. You need a 32-hour course (24 lecture and 8 clinical hours) or proof that your CODA program covered it, kept on file with your supervising dentist. Out-of-state local anesthesia authorization is also accepted.
Moving to Illinois with a license from another state
Illinois isn't a member of the Dentist and Dental Hygienist Compact.
If you're already licensed in another state, ask the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation 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 Illinois?
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 14 schools with dental hygiene programs in Illinois, 12 offer an associate degree and 2 offer a bachelor's degree. After you graduate, you pass the NBDHE and a clinical exam, then the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation reviews your application. Dental hygiene schools in Illinois
Can I transfer my dental hygiene license to Illinois?
Not automatically. Illinois isn't in the Dentist and Dental Hygienist Compact. If you're already licensed in another state, ask the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation about licensure by credentials (also called endorsement or reciprocity). How to get a dental hygiene license
Does Illinois require a jurisprudence exam?
No. Illinois doesn't require a separate jurisprudence exam for a first dental hygiene license.
Can dental hygienists give local anesthesia in Illinois?
Illinois doesn't issue a separate permit. You need a 32-hour course (24 lecture and 8 clinical hours) or proof that your CODA program covered it, kept on file with your supervising dentist. Out-of-state local anesthesia authorization is also accepted.
Which clinical exams does Illinois accept?
Illinois accepts ADEX or CRDTS. Dental hygiene board exam guide
Sources
Last verified August 31, 2026.
- idfpr.illinois.gov /content/dam/soi/en/web/idfpr/core/dpr/020-qua…
- law.cornell.edu /regulations/illinois/Ill-Admin-Code-tit-68-SS…
- law.cornell.edu /regulations/illinois/Ill-Admin-Code-tit-68-SS…
- law.cornell.edu /regulations/illinois/Ill-Admin-Code-tit-68-SS…
- ddhcompact.org /compact-map
- adextesting.org /adex-acceptance-map
- crdts.org /srta
Rules change. Confirm with the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation before you rely on them. Official board site