Certifications & licenses in California
Compare requirements, salaries, and career paths for 27 professional credentials in CA. Data from BLS OEWS and primary state licensing sources.
What's different about California
As of January 1, 2022, Senate Bill 803 reduced the required cosmetology training program from 1,600 to 1,000 hours.
Board of Barbering and Cosmetology
The examination requirement for certification with the California Massage Therapy Council (CAMTC) has been suspended through December 31, 2027.
California Massage Therapy Council
As of January 1, 2023, the Contractors State License Board (CSLB) increased the required contractor license bond amount to $25,000.
Contractors State License Board
The Medical Board of California oversees more than 100,000 licensed physicians and is one of the largest boards under the DCA.
Medical Board of California
A $75,000 CA salary has roughly the purchasing power of a $52,900 salary in an average-cost-of-living state.
| State | Median annual wage | vs CA |
|---|---|---|
| CA | $46,420 | — |
| AZ | $41,074 | −11.5% vs CA |
| NV | $41,247 | −11.1% vs CA |
| OR | $42,960 | −7.5% vs CA |
| State | Required training hours | vs CA |
|---|---|---|
| CA | 500 hours | — |
| AZ | 700 hours | +200 hours |
| NV | 625 hours | +125 hours |
| OR | 625 hours | +125 hours |
Healthcare in California
13 paths| Career | License | Median salary |
|---|---|---|
| Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) | Required | $46,420 |
| Dental Assistant | Required | $48,910 |
| EMT | No | $45,680 |
| Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) | Required | $77,170 |
| Medical Assistant | No | $48,050 |
| Medical Coder | No | $59,700 |
| Paramedic | Required | $45,680 |
| Pharmacy Technician | Required | $49,640 |
| Phlebotomist | Required | $55,460 |
| Radiology Technologist | Required | $107,670 |
| Respiratory Therapist | Required | $102,120 |
| Surgical Technologist | No | $81,120 |
| Dental Hygienist | Required | $121,080 |
Trades in California
8 paths| Career | License | Median salary |
|---|---|---|
| CDL Truck Driver | Required | $59,950 |
| Electrician | Required | $76,540 |
| HVAC Technician | Required | $65,290 |
| Plumber | Required | $68,390 |
| Welder | No | $57,940 |
| Barber | Required | $36,590 |
| Cosmetologist | Required | $39,370 |
| Massage Therapist | No | $48,430 |
Professional in California
6 paths| Career | License | Median salary |
|---|---|---|
| CPA (Certified Public Accountant) | Required | $96,360 |
| Notary Public | Required | — |
| Paralegal | No | $72,960 |
| Personal Trainer | No | $56,600 |
| Insurance Agent | Required | $64,990 |
| Real Estate Agent | Required | $62,420 |