United States · Licensing examWhat’s the NBDHE passing score?
A scale score of 75. Scores run from 49 to 99, and your overall scale score alone decides the result, not your scores in each area. It isn’t a percentage or a count of right answers. The JCNDE is clear on this: a 74 doesn’t mean one more right answer would have passed you.
The exam isn’t graded on a curve. Subject matter experts set the standard, and the JCNDE reviews it from time to time. When it does, it adjusts the scale so that 75 stays the minimum pass.
How are NBDHE results worked out?
Candidates don’t all get the same questions, because many forms of the exam are in use. Each form has questions that put scores on one common scale, so a score means the same thing whichever form you got.
Answer every question. You’re not penalized for guessing. Some questions are experimental and don’t count, and they look just like the scored ones.
The JCNDE’s April 2026 report planned to move NBDHE scoring to a three-parameter logistic (3PL) model in 2026, together with the updated test specifications and an updated passing standard. It says this gives a more precise estimate of each candidate’s skill. The guide says that when a standard changes, the scale is adjusted so 75 is still the pass mark.
What your report shows if you fail
You get your overall scale score, plus how you did overall, in each of the 13 discipline areas and on the cases. The JCNDE gives you this to help you prepare for a retake. Numerical scores are reported for any attempts made before 2012.
Sending your results to a state board
Name up to three licensing jurisdictions when you apply, and your exam fee covers them. For anyone else, sign in, open the Requests tab and order a results report, for $55 each in the 2026 guide. The Department of Testing Services then sends your history of results to the board.
If you’re at an accredited program, or graduated from one in the last five years, signing your application lets the JCNDE share results with your program dean. Results can’t be voided at your request once you’ve finished any part of the exam.
Asking for a results audit
Every result is checked before release, but you can pay $105 for a second audit. Request it through your DENTPIN account within 30 days of the reporting date on your official report. It takes about four to six weeks. The outcome can’t be appealed. For legal disputes about the exam, the American Dental Association (ADA) uses arbitration.
Your National Board certificate
Once you’ve passed, you can order an 8.5 by 11 inch National Board certificate, with an optional frame, by signing in with your DENTPIN. The guide doesn’t print a price, so you’ll see it when you sign in.
Sources: JCNDE and 3 more. Checked November 2026.
- JCNDE: Get your NBDHE results ↗
- JCNDE: NBDHE 2026 Candidate Guide, updated September 17, 2026 (PDF) ↗
- JCNDE: National Board Dental Hygiene Examination ↗
- JCNDE: April 2026 report of major actions (PDF) ↗
Rules and fees can change, so check the official site before your test.
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