Licensure, renewal, and continuing education requirements
What this domain tests
Licensure renewal tests dates, CE categories, documentation, and consequences of lapsed or inactive status. Montana licenses are renewed through the Board and Department of Labor and Industry; the Board’s current rule and renewal instructions control the hour count.
Core rules
- Montana dental hygiene licenses renew annually; the renewal deadline is March 1. Late renewal may require a late fee and may prohibit practice until the license is active.
- CE is reported on renewal and audited. Keep certificates and agendas for the audit period. Required categories commonly include infection control and ethics; the Board’s renewal form lists the current number of hours and any special requirements.
- CPR is required for licensure or for anesthesia or nitrous permits, depending on the credential. Ensure the card is current and from an accepted provider.
- Inactive or retired status does not authorize practice. Returning to active practice may require CE, a fee, and possibly a refresher or examination.
- Practicing on an expired license is unlicensed practice, even if renewal is later approved.
Worked example
A hygienist completes the general hour total but no infection-control hour. The renewal is incomplete if the current rule requires a specific infection-control hour. She must complete an approved course before attesting, not after an audit notice.
Traps
Do not count non-dental topics unless the rule allows them. Do not assume CE from another state automatically counts; check Board approval. Do not let a lapsed license continue to treat patients while “waiting for paperwork.”