How Much Does the NBDHE Cost?

I. Understanding the NBDHE

The National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE) is a required computer based written exam that assesses the ability to understand important information from basic biomedical, dental and dental hygiene sciences and the ability to apply such information in a problem solving context. It assists state boards in evaluating qualifications of dental hygienists for licensure. The main important components of the exam include scientific basis for dental hygiene practice, provision of clinical dental hygiene services, and community health and research principles.

Dental hygiene students must apply for the exam prior to writing the exam and obtaining NBDHE certification for next steps to become dental hygienists. This article contains important information to help dental hygiene students to understand the examination fees and the process of applying for the exam.
For more detailed tips on exam preparation and how to review, visit NBDHEBooster.

II. Breakdown of the NBDHE costs

To understand the examination fees, let's take a look at the application process when applying for the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination.

First time test takers must create a DENTPIN, a personal identification number, through the JCNDE (Joint Commission on National Dental Examinations) website. Ensure that you review the NBDHE candidate guide, focusing on eligibility requirements, rules of conduct, examination regulations, and the testing center procedures. Once you have completed step one, you will submit an application to the JCNDE for them to confirm with your dental hygiene program director that you meet the eligibility requirements, alternatively you may submit proof of graduation from an approved dental hygiene program. A confirmation will then be sent via an eligibility email allowing you to schedule your examination. Scheduling an exam will be completed via a Pearson Vue web account. Note that first time test takers must create a Pearson Vue web account prior to scheduling an exam.

As of October 2025, the standard examination fee, which includes the DENTPIN registration and NBDHE application, is 600 USD.

Additional fees to consider are eligibility extension fees and rescheduling fees. Note that at the time of application processing, candidates are eligible to schedule their exam within a 6 month window. Any requests to extend that period will be an additional 145 USD and will extend the window by 45 days. This can only be done once per application. If you need to reschedule your exam, at least one full business day notice is required and will require an additional fee of 25 USD. The rescheduled exam appointment must still be within the eligibility period as mentioned above.

III. Additional Expenses to Consider

At the time of exam application, you will have the ability to select recipients to send your results report to. Any additional report not included at the time of application will require an additional 50 USD. Another cost to consider is the auditing fee which can be requested 30 days after the official score report and it costs 65 USD.

When applying for the NBDHE, be prepared for additional costs that include study resources and materials. Self-studying is certainly an option but for higher chances of success, we recommend preparation courses such as NBDHEBooster that is tailored to the provision of dental hygiene practices and the scientific basis that will be covered in the exam. You will also need to budget for any travel or accommodation costs if your testing centre is outside your city or province. Booking ahead of time or having an available local testing centre can minimize these costs.

IV. Strategies to Manage and Reduce Costs

The steps to becoming a licensed dental hygienist requires a big investment not just for the NBDHE but also for any preparation programs that you choose to do. With smart planning, you can keep your costs manageable.

1. Budget early - assess the fees that you will have to cover early on and start a small exam fund months in advance. Setting aside $50-$75 per month can help cover exam fees, prep materials, and any travel costs by the time you're ready to register.
    
2. Plan any necessary travel ahead of time - if you need to travel to your scheduled testing centre, book accommodations in advance and avoid travelling last minute which is typically more expensive.
    
3. Use digital study resources - online platforms often cost less than in-person classes while offering more flexibility. They also help you focus on the knowledge you need to pass your exam.
    
4. Take advantage of student discounts - some preparation courses offer discounts on their programs and may also offer group discounts.
    
5. Avoid retake costs - passing on your first try is the biggest money-saver of all. Using high-yield prep programs for your review and realistic mock exams helps ensure you’re exam-ready.

V. Financial Aid and Resources

If the total cost feels overwhelming, explore financial aid or reimbursement options:

1. Dental hygiene programs: Some schools offer exam-fee reimbursement or include it in tuition.
    
2. Professional organizations: The ADHA and other dental hygiene associations occasionally offer scholarships for licensing costs.
    
3. Employer assistance: If you’re already working in a dental office, your employer might offer support for licensure expenses.
   These options can help lighten the financial burden and make the process smoother.

VI. Comparing NBDHE With Other Dental Exams

Wondering how the NBDHE stacks up cost-wise against other dental exams?

Interested in learning more about what's on your NBDHE exam? Check out this article on How many questions are on the NBDHE.

VII. Preparing for NBDHE on a Budget

If you’re balancing school, work, and other financial commitments, preparing for the NBDHE doesn’t have to break the bank. Here are a few budget-friendly tips:

• Form study groups to share resources.
• Use free practice tests and resources before committing to a paid course. Refer to the official Candidate Guide for detailed information on the breakdown and structure of the exam.
• Focus your prep on weak areas to study and review efficiently.
• Use NBDHEBooster’s resources and built-in progress tracking to avoid burnout and retakes.

Small savings at each step can make a big difference by testing day!

Preparing for the NBDHE doesn’t have to be overwhelming. NBDHEBooster offers an all-in-one study platform with realistic practice questions, detailed explanations, and practice tests that mirror the real test. With high-yield content and smart study tools, NBDHEBooster helps you save both time and money, and maximize your chances of passing on the first try.

Start your NBDHE prep today with NBDHEBooster!

VIII. FAQ

Q: What is the registration fee for the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination?

A: The registration fee costs 600 USD. This does not include any eligibility extension fees or rescheduling fees which have additional costs. Any additional report to be sent to a recipient that was not selected at the time of the application will cost an additional 50 USD.

Q: Are there late or rescheduling fees for the exam?

A: Rescheduling an examination appointment is only available once per application. It costs an additional 25 USD and rescheduling the date must be within the eligibility window. If the exam needs to be rescheduled past the eligibility period, you may request for an eligibility extension for an additional 45 days to be added to that period. This will cost 145 USD.

Q: How should I budget for study materials?

A: For the NBDHE exam, most students should budget 300-400 USD for preparation courses.

Q: Does financial aid cover NBDHE exam fees?

A: Financial aid may not directly cover the fees for the NBDHE exam. For some students, any additional financial aid that they receive may be set aside to cover testing expenses.

Q: What is the total cost of taking the NBDHE?

A: Overall, the total cost of taking the NBDHE will be around 600-900 USD in total including testing fees, study materials, and travel costs.

IX. Final Thoughts

The NBDHE exam is an essential step toward becoming a licensed dental hygienist, and understanding its true cost helps you plan confidently. Between registration fees, study materials, and potential travel expenses, a little financial planning goes a long way.

Investing in the right resources and preparing effectively from the start can help you save money, reduce stress, and achieve a pass on your first attempt!