Exam Application

Licensure/certification examinations have a well defined purpose: to protect the public by ensuring that those who are certified possess sufficient knowledge and skills to perform important occupational activities safely and effectively (AERA et al., 1999).

How to apply for the the NDHCE (National Dental Hygiene Certification Examination)?

There are 2 ways to apply for the NDHCE; by Mail or Online.
Please note that Applicants must meet all of the criteria for eligibility before applying for the Exam. If those criteria are not met, the NDHCB will not allow the application and will reimburse the application fee minus a non-refundable fee of $100 (+ Tax).

The National Dental Hygiene Certification Examination (NDHCE) is designed to assist the provincial and territorial dental hygiene regulatory authorities to determine whether or not an applicant for certification, registration, or licensure possesses adequate knowledge and/or skill related to entry-level dental hygiene practice standards.

The NDHCE is intended to fulfill the written examination requirement. However, acceptance of the NDHCB Certificate is completely at the discretion of the individual provincial or territorial dental hygiene regulatory authority.

the examination consists of between 250-275 multiple choice questions, divided into two booklets;
the examination is administered in one day, and consists of two 3 hour sessions, one in the morning (booklet #1) and one in the afternoon (booklet #2);
the passing score is calculated using a proven statistical method. It should however be noted that over the last 5 years, it has always been between 65% and 70% for any specific examination;
the International tooth numbering system is used in the exam;
the Metric system is used throughout the exam. However when an individual’s height or weight is mentioned, the imperial system measurements are also noted in brackets; and
the examination is offered three times a year (in January, May and September) in at least one centre in each region in Canada (see list).

The written NDHCE tests the candidate's ability to apply his/her knowledge as a beginning practitioner to solve oral health care problems and answer questions related to dental hygiene practice. The examination is based on dental hygiene competencies (e.g. Dental Hygiene Process (DHP): Assessment & Diagnosis, DHP: Planning, DHP: Implementation, DHP: Evaluation) outlined in the latest Examination Blueprint. The dental hygiene competencies were reviewed and validated by dental hygiene professionals representing all fields of practice and all regions of Canada. Regulatory authorities were consulted to ensure that the competencies reflect dental hygiene practice in all jurisdictions.

The fees for the certification examination must be paid in full by credit card (VISA or Master Card), certified cheque or money order in Canadian funds (payable to the National Dental Hygiene Certification Board), at the time of application.

1st attempt Certification Examination Fee: $525.00 (includes GST) or $565 (including HST for those who write in New Brunswick or Nova Scotia). These include a $100.00 (+ tax) non-refundable application fee.
Certification Examination Rewrite Fee $420.00 (incl. GST) or $452.00 (incl. HST). These also include a $100.00 (+ tax) non-refundable application fee.

Examination fees are subject to change without notice.

It is important that you complete the appropriate request forms for testing accommodations, if you have a disability that could adversely affect your performance on the examination. If you require some accommodation (e.g., separate room, large print examination, etc.) in taking the examination, please consult the guide and then download, fill and return the Testing Accommodation Application Form. Don't forget to have the documentation form supporting your accommodation request completed by a professional and to include all details about past accommodations in academic/exam settings. We cannot guarantee that the accommodations will be available unless the accommodations are requested at the same time as you apply to write the examination.