Steps to get licensed in New York
- Graduate from a CODA-accredited dental hygiene program or a board-approved equivalent.
- Pass the NBDHE.
- Pass the ADEX clinical exam.
- Complete approved infection control coursework.
- Apply to the New York State Education Department, Office of the Professions.
Board exams for New York licensure
Every state requires the written National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE). For the hands-on clinical exam, New York accepts ADEX.
The American Board of Dental Examiners (ADEX) exam. It was formerly given through CDCA-WREB-CITA, which included WREB and CITA.
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
New York doesn't require a separate jurisprudence exam for a first dental hygiene license.
- Local anesthesia
- Separate credential
New York requires additional education and a separate certification before hygienists give local infiltration anesthesia.
Moving to New York with a license from another state
New York isn't a member of the Dentist and Dental Hygienist Compact.
If you're already licensed in another state, ask the New York State Education Department, Office of the Professions 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 New York?
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 10 schools with dental hygiene programs in New York, all offer an associate degree and 3 offer a bachelor's degree. After you graduate, you pass the NBDHE and a clinical exam, then the New York State Education Department, Office of the Professions reviews your application. Dental hygiene schools in New York
Can I transfer my dental hygiene license to New York?
Not automatically. New York isn't in the Dentist and Dental Hygienist Compact. If you're already licensed in another state, ask the New York State Education Department, Office of the Professions about licensure by credentials (also called endorsement or reciprocity). How to get a dental hygiene license
Does New York require a jurisprudence exam?
No. New York doesn't require a separate jurisprudence exam for a first dental hygiene license.
Can dental hygienists give local anesthesia in New York?
New York requires additional education and a separate certification before hygienists give local infiltration anesthesia.
Which clinical exams does New York accept?
New York accepts one clinical exam: ADEX. Dental hygiene board exam guide
Sources
Last verified August 31, 2026.
- op.nysed.gov /professions/dental-hygienists
- op.nysed.gov /professions/dental-hygienists/license-require…
- adha.org /wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Overview_Clinical_…
Rules change. Confirm with the New York State Education Department, Office of the Professions before you rely on them. Official board site