Each applicant for licensure as a dental hygienist by examination must possess the following qualifications:

1. A. graduated and received a diploma from an accredited dental hygiene program consisting of at least two academic years of dental hygiene curriculum as defined in Section 61-5A-13 NMSA 1978;
2. B. passed the dental hygiene national board examination as defined in Section 61-5A-13 NMSA 1978;

3. C. passed a clinical examination approved by the committee and ratified by the board; the results of the clinical examination are valid in New Mexico for a period not to exceed five years:

   1. (1) the applicant shall apply directly to a board accepted examining agent for examination, and
   2. (2) results of the clinical examination must be sent directly to the board office; and
4. D. passed the jurisprudence examination with a score of at least seventy-five percent;
5. E. the committee requires a background status report from a board designated professional background service the applicant will apply and pay fees directly to a board designated professional background service to initiate this service.

[16.5.19.8 NMAC - Rp, 16.5.19.8 NMAC, 5/31/2023]