May 2026 Philippine Licensure Exam Results: Dentists and Dental Hygienists Pass Rates and Next Steps
The Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) has released the official results for the May 2026 Licensure Examinations for Dentists and Dental Hygienists, marking a critical milestone for thousands of aspiring healthcare professionals. With pass rates reflecting the rigor of the exams, successful candidates now face registration deadlines and oathtaking ceremonies to officially begin their careers.
Dentists Licensure Exam Results: 67.17% Pass Rate in May 2026
The May 2026 Dentists Licensure Examination, administered by the Board of Dentistry under the PRC, recorded a 67.17% pass rate, with 63,377 successful candidates out of 94,357 examinees. This marks a slight improvement from the 65.89% pass rate observed in the March 2026 Licensure Examination for Teachers (LET), though direct comparisons between different exams should account for varying difficulty levels and candidate pools.
Key Statistics:
- Total examinees: 94,357
- Passed: 63,377 (67.17%)
- Failed: 30,980 (32.83%)
- Exam format: Computer-based test (CBT)
- Exam venues: NCR, Baguio, Cebu, and Davao
The exam was overseen by the Board of Dentistry, comprising Dr. Merlin A. Go (Chairman), Dr. Melinda L. Garcia, Dr. Carlito D. Paragas, Dr. Gloria M. Bumanlag, and Dr. Ellis James B. Ranada (Members). Results were released within the standard eight (8) working days post-examination, aligning with PRC protocols.
Next Steps for Successful Candidates
Successful examinees must complete the following to receive their Professional Identification Card (ID) and Certificate of Registration:
- Online Registration: Begin February 16, 2026 (for November 2025 exams) or as announced for May 2026. Register via PRC’s official website.
- Required Documents:
- Downloaded and accomplished Oath Form (Panunumpa ng Propesyonal)
- Notice of Admission (for identification)
- 2 passport-sized photos (colored, white background, with name tag)
- 2 sets of documentary stamps
- 1 short brown envelope
- Oathtaking Ceremony: Dates and venues will be announced separately by the PRC.
- Roster Signing: Candidates must personally register and sign in the Roster of Registered Professionals.
Dental Hygienists Computer-Based Licensure Exam: Pass Rates and Registration
The May 2026 Dental Hygienists Computer-Based Licensure Examination also saw a significant number of candidates pursue licensure, though exact pass rates for this exam have not been explicitly released in the primary sources. The PRC typically follows a similar timeline for results release—eight (8) working days after the last day of the examination—with registration and oathtaking processes mirroring those for Dentists.
Note: As of May 20, 2026, the official pass rate and exact numbers for the Dental Hygienists exam have not been published in verified primary sources. Updates will be provided as soon as they are released by the PRC.
What to Expect for Dental Hygienists
Based on previous cycles (e.g., November 2025 results), candidates can anticipate:
- Results released within 8 working days post-exam.
- Online registration opening within 2 months of results release.
- Oathtaking ceremonies scheduled 3–6 months after registration opens.
- Requirements for registration identical to Dentists, including the Oath Form and documentary stamps.
Pass Rate Trends: Dentists vs. Dental Hygienists
While exact pass rates for Dental Hygienists in May 2026 are pending, historical data from the PRC provides context:
| Exam Type | Date | Total Examinees | Passed | Pass Rate | Results Release Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dentists Licensure Exam | May 2026 | 94,357 | 63,377 | 67.17% | 8 working days |
| Dentists Licensure Exam | November 2025 | 1,474 | 1,282 | 87.01% | 4 working days |
| Dental Hygienists CBT | November 2025 | N/A (data pending) | N/A | N/A | 8 working days (standard) |
*Note: November 2025 Dentists exam had a higher pass rate, likely due to fewer examinees or exam difficulty adjustments.
The 67.17% pass rate for Dentists in May 2026 reflects the competitive nature of licensure exams in the Philippines, where only candidates demonstrating mastery of both theoretical and practical skills earn licensure. The PRC emphasizes high standards to ensure public safety and professional competence.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. When will the Dental Hygienists exam results be released?
As of May 20, 2026, the official pass rate and results for the Dental Hygienists CBT have not been published. The PRC typically releases results within 8 working days after the last exam day. Updates will be provided on PRC’s website.
2. How do I register for my Professional ID after passing?
Successful candidates must register online via the PRC portal (www.prc.gov.ph) within the announced timeline. Bring the required documents (Oath Form, ID, photos, stamps, and envelope) to the oathtaking ceremony.
3. Can I work as a Dentist/Dental Hygienist before taking the oath?
No. The Professional Identification Card (ID) and Certificate of Registration are only issued after completing the oathtaking ceremony. Unregistered practitioners may face legal penalties under Philippine law.
4. What if I failed the exam? Can I retake it?
Yes. The PRC allows retakes for licensure exams, typically offered twice a year (May and November). Failed candidates must reapply and pay the examination fee again. Reviewing the PRC’s retake guidelines is recommended.
5. Are there scholarships or financial aid for exam fees?
Some professional organizations (e.g., Philippine Dental Association) and government programs (e.g., CHED) offer financial assistance. Candidates should check with their school’s alumni office or the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) for available grants.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for New Professionals?
The release of the May 2026 licensure exam results marks the beginning of a new chapter for thousands of aspiring Dentists and Dental Hygienists. For successful candidates, the path forward includes:
- Registration and Oathtaking: Complete the legal formalities to practice.
- Continuing Professional Development (CPD): Mandatory for license renewal (e.g., PRC CPD guidelines).
- Job Placement: Leverage networks through organizations like the Philippine Dental Association or Philippine Dental Hygienists Association.
- Specialization: Pursue advanced certifications (e.g., orthodontics, oral surgery) for career growth.
For those who did not pass, the PRC encourages targeted review and retaking the exam in the November 2026 cycle. The journey to becoming a licensed professional in healthcare is rigorous but rewarding, and the PRC remains committed to maintaining high standards of competency in the field.
Related reading