Steps to get licensed in Missouri
- Graduate from a CODA-accredited dental hygiene program.
- Pass the NBDHE.
- Pass the ADEX or CRDTS clinical exam within the past five years.
- Pass the Missouri jurisprudence exam (open book, 80% to pass).
- Hold current BLS certification for healthcare providers.
- Apply to the Missouri Dental Board, with scores sent directly from the testing agencies.
Board exams for Missouri licensure
Every state requires the written National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE). For the hands-on clinical exam, Missouri 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
Missouri requires a jurisprudence exam on its dental laws and rules for your first license. It's open book and you need 80% to pass.
- Local anesthesia
- Separate credential
Missouri issues a separate local anesthesia permit. You apply with your board-approved training records and a fee, and you can file it with your license application.
Moving to Missouri with a license from another state
Missouri isn't a member of the Dentist and Dental Hygienist Compact.
If you're already licensed in another state, ask the Missouri Dental Board 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 Missouri?
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 6 schools with dental hygiene programs in Missouri, 5 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 Missouri Dental Board reviews your application. Dental hygiene schools in Missouri
Can I transfer my dental hygiene license to Missouri?
Not automatically. Missouri isn't in the Dentist and Dental Hygienist Compact. If you're already licensed in another state, ask the Missouri Dental Board about licensure by credentials (also called endorsement or reciprocity). How to get a dental hygiene license
Does Missouri require a jurisprudence exam?
Yes. Missouri requires a jurisprudence exam on its dental laws and rules for your first license. It's open book and you need 80% to pass.
Can dental hygienists give local anesthesia in Missouri?
Missouri issues a separate local anesthesia permit. You apply with your board-approved training records and a fee, and you can file it with your license application.
Which clinical exams does Missouri accept?
Missouri accepts ADEX or CRDTS. Dental hygiene board exam guide
Sources
Last verified August 31, 2026.
- pr.mo.gov /boards/dental/375-0225.pdf
- sos.mo.gov /cmsimages/adrules/csr/current/20csr/20c2110-2…
- pr.mo.gov /dental-application-forms.asp
- adextesting.org /adex-acceptance-map
- adha.org /wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Overview_Clinical_…
- crdts.org /srta
Rules change. Confirm with the Missouri Dental Board before you rely on them. Official board site