License Information
Becoming a Licensed Dental Hygienist in Colorado
Your career starts with licensure — and Colorado offers one of the most progressive, independent dental hygiene practice models in the nation.
Licensure protects both patients and professionals. It ensures that every hygienist practicing in Colorado meets the highest standards of education, ethics, and clinical competency. The Colorado Dental Hygienists’ Association (CODHA) works closely with the Colorado Dental Board and the Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA) to support hygienists through each stage of their professional journey.
Your Path to Licensure
No matter where you’re starting — as a new graduate, an experienced hygienist moving to Colorado, or a returning professional — the process follows the same foundation of education, examination, and verification.
General Steps:
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Complete an Accredited Program
Graduate from a CODA-accredited dental hygiene program. -
Pass the National Board Exam (NBDHE)
Demonstrates comprehensive dental hygiene knowledge. -
Pass a Clinical Exam
Accepted regional testing agencies include ADEX, CRDTS, SRTA, and WREB. -
Submit an Application to DORA
Include all required documentation, fees, and your Application Checklist. -
Optional/Additional Permits:
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Local Anesthesia Permit – Required to administer anesthesia in any setting.
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Interim Therapeutic Restorations (ITR) Permit – Required to place ITRs.
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Laser & Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) Certifications – Must meet rule-specific education and documentation standards.
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⚠️ Administering local anesthesia or placing ITRs without the appropriate permit is considered a violation of the Dental Practice Act and can lead to Dental Board review or license suspension.
Coming Soon: Expanded Procedures
Colorado’s Dental Practice Act now authorizes additional procedures for dental hygienists, pending rulemaking and CE course approval.
Once finalized, additional CE will be required for:
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Neuromodulators & Dermal Fillers
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Vaccine Administration
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Expanded Prescriptive Authority
(Non-narcotic analgesics, anti-inflammatories, and antibiotics)
Stay tuned for updates — CODHA is actively engaged in the rulemaking process and will share CE details as soon as they are available.
Why Licensure Matters
Licensure isn’t just a legal requirement — it’s a mark of professional integrity.
It signifies your commitment to safe, ethical, and evidence-based care. It opens doors to advanced practice, leadership, and clinical independence, all while protecting the communities you serve.
“Colorado hygienists are leaders in prevention-focused, patient-centered care. Licensure is the foundation that allows us to practice confidently and make an impact.”
Apply for a Colorado License
- Application for License (Apply Online)
- Permit to Administer Local Anesthesia (Apply Online) - REQUIRED to administer LA in all practice settings (if you are picking up a needle you have to have this permit along with your RDH license)
- Permit to Place Interim Therapeutic Restorations (Apply Online)
- Other Applications and Forms
- Military Spouse Temporary License Information
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As of January 1, 2021, military spouses can apply for a three-year temporary license at no cost if they are licensed to practice in another state.
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New Dental Hygiene Pathway for Dental Assistants at CCD!
09/10/2025
New Dental Hygiene Pathway for Dental Assistants at CCD! Applications are open.
Read More ►
SB25-194 Rule Making Timeline
08/12/2025
On Aug 6, 2025, SB25-194 took effect, extending the Dental Practice Act to 2034 with new RDH scope updates. Many changes await Dental Board rulemaking, so RDHs must follow current rules until new regulations are adopted.
Read More ►
Navigating Medicaid and Insurance Coverage Changes: What Colorado's HCPF is Doing to Protect Our Community
08/12/2025
Stay updated on Colorado Medicaid changes! HCPF is focused on avoiding drastic cuts and improving access to care. Learn more about ongoing projects and sign up for the HCPF newsletter to stay informed about vital insurance coverage updates for dental prov
Read More ►Peer Assistance Services Available for Colorado Dental Hygienists
07/18/2025
Peer Assistance Services offers confidential, non-punitive assistance for RDHs who may be facing challenges such as substance use, emotional burnout, or mental health concerns. The goal is to help dental professionals receive the support they need, protec
Read More ►Reporting to the Dental Board and CODHA's Support
07/09/2025
If there are concerns about licensure status, including practicing without an active license or other violations of the Dental Practice Act, it is important to report these to the Colorado Dental Board. The board is responsible for investigating and takin
Read More ►Retired RDH License
07/09/2025
To practice as a dental hygienist in Colorado, an individual must have an active license. A retired license status means that the licensee is not authorized to engage in patient care or perform any acts that constitute dental hygiene practice. The Colorad
Read More ►Getting your Initial RDH Licensure in CO! - New Graduates
07/09/2025
The Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA) oversees the licensing of dental hygienists in Colorado and RDH licensure in Colorado follows the same process for all applicants. These are the general required steps and here is more detailed informa
Read More ►Transferring Your RDH License to Colorado:
07/09/2025
Submit a Licensure by Credential Application: Complete the application for licensure by endorsement through the Colorado Dental Board. Provide Proof of Current Licensure: Submit verification of your active RDH license in good standing from your curre
Read More ►License - foreign trained/licensed dentist/dental hygienist:
07/09/2025
We recommend foreign-trained/licensed dentists or dental hygienists seeking licensure in CO to contact the CO Dental Board or DORA for questions and guidance. Colorado currently does not offer a direct pathway for foreign-trained or licensed dentists, den
Read More ►The Colorado Dental Board is the regulatory agency of the dental hygiene profession. See the website to review your legal requirements for maintaining your license and your practice. Encourage consumers to look up licensing information of the dental hygienists and dentists in the dental office where they are considering treatment.
For information about the Colorado Dental Board, applications, and full updated documents, please visit
