Written by AI from public information on 2026-10-26. Fees and rules change and vary by province — confirm with the official body before relying on anything here.
Typical cost
about CA$15,000 to CA$30,000
an estimate in Canadian dollars
Time to earn it
about 2 to 3 years
Issued by National Dental Hygiene Certification Board and provincial regulators
Required to start: Working as a dental hygienist needs registration with the provincial regulator.
About
Registration is a licence. It is required by law wherever dental hygiene is regulated. You cannot legally work as a dental hygienist or use the title without it.
The licence shows that you finished an approved dental hygiene program and passed the national exam. It also shows that you meet the standards set by your provincial regulator. These standards protect patients and keep care safe.
Registered dental hygienists work in dental offices, community clinics, public health programs, long-term care homes and schools. Some also work in education, research or business. Your registration is the first thing most employers will ask about.
How to get it
Finish an approved program
Complete a dental hygiene program that is accepted by the regulator where you plan to work. Most programs are diploma programs offered by colleges, and some universities offer degrees.
Apply to take the national exam
Apply to the National Dental Hygiene Certification Board to sit its exam. You will need proof that you graduated or are about to graduate from an approved program.
Pass the written exam
Study for the exam and pass it. Many students prepare for a few months with practice questions and review notes.
Apply to your provincial regulator
Send your application to the dental hygiene regulator in the province or territory where you want to work. Include your exam results, proof of education and any other documents they ask for.
Meet the other requirements
Regulators usually ask for things like a criminal record check, proof of language ability, proof of liability insurance and a registration fee. Requirements vary, so check with your regulator early.
Receive your registration
Once approved, you are registered and may practise as a dental hygienist. Some regulators also require you to follow a code of ethics and practice standards.
The exam
The National Dental Hygiene Certification Board runs a national written exam. It tests your knowledge of dental hygiene theory and how you would apply it in real patient situations. Questions are mostly multiple choice. You must pass it before most provincial regulators will register you.
Licensed by each province
Each province and territory issues this itself, under its own rules. Each province and territory has its own regulator, and the rules are not exactly the same everywhere. Fees, forms, renewal dates and continuing education requirements differ. The tasks a hygienist is allowed to do on their own can also differ. If you move to another province, you will need to apply to the regulator there, though your national exam result is usually accepted.
Keeping it
Registration must be renewed on a regular schedule set by your regulator. To renew, you usually pay a renewal fee and confirm that you are still fit to practise. You are also expected to keep learning through continuing education. Keep records of your courses, because the regulator may ask to see them.