Louisiana Registered Dental Hygienist
To become a registered dental hygienist in Louisiana and obtain a license by credentials, a hygienist:
- Must take and pass a Louisiana jurisprudence exam.
- Cannot be convicted of a felony or have any pending charges.
- Must pay $900 in check or money order.
- Must appear before the Board for an interview.
- Must submit two passport-type photos with application for license.
- Must provide copy of diploma and evidence of national board examination grades.
- Submits three letters of recommendation from professional colleagues.
- Completes and present a current CPR certificate that meets Louisiana requirements.
- Must submit proof of citizenship.
- Must provide documentation that applicant is free of disease and is up-to-date on immunizations.
- Encloses certificates of good standing from any state in which the applicant previously practiced.
- Provides proof of professional liability insurance.
- Provides a sworn affidavit that there are no existing complaints against the applicant.
- Submits documentation of completed continuing education credits for two (2) years.
- Submits fingerprint documentation as required by the State of Louisiana.
To Obtain a License by Examination, a hygienist:
- Must arrange to take a Louisiana jurisprudence exam.
- Must pay $250 in check or money order.
- Must submit a recent passport-type photo.
- Must provide copy of diploma from accredited dental hygienist training or diploma program and evidence of national board examination grades.
- Provides certification of licensure from appropriate state boards if licensed in another state.
- Must complete and present a current CPR certificate that meets Louisiana requirements.
- Must submit proof of citizenship.
- Submits fingerprint documentation as required by the State of Louisiana.
Obtaining a Local Anesthesia Permit
A dental hygienist can apply for a special permit to administer local anesthesia under the direct supervision of a practicing dentist. Hygienists must complete a formal training program consisting of at least 72 hours of approved course content and pass a written examination on the administration of anesthesia prior to application submittal. A hygienist administering anesthesia without this special endorsement can be subject to sanctions. The fee for this permit is $50, payable to the Louisiana State Board of Dentistry.