Certifications & licenses in Georgia
Compare requirements, salaries, and career paths for 27 professional credentials in GA. Data from BLS OEWS and primary state licensing sources.
What's different about Georgia
To earn a Master Cosmetologist license in 2026, applicants must complete 1,500 hours of training over at least 9 months.
Georgia State Board of Cosmetology and Barbers
As of 2024, Georgia requires massage therapists to complete a 500-hour program from a board-approved school.
Georgia Board of Massage Therapy
As of 2025, General Contractor (Unlimited Tier) applicants must prove a minimum net worth of $150,000 to be licensed.
Georgia State Licensing Board for Residential and General Contractors
Beginning January 1, 2025, all applicants for EMS Personnel licensure must use the vendor Idemia for fingerprint-based background checks.
Georgia Department of Public Health
A $60,000 salary in a high-cost state would have the purchasing power of roughly $45,650 in Georgia, given the lower cost of living.
| State | Median annual wage | vs GA |
|---|---|---|
| GA | $33,498 | — |
| FL | $32,862 | -1.9% vs GA |
| AL | $31,907 | -4.7% vs GA |
| TN | $32,456 | -3.1% vs GA |
| SC | $32,543 | -2.9% vs GA |
| NC | $33,005 | -1.5% vs GA |
| State | Required training hours | vs GA |
|---|---|---|
| GA | 500 hours | — |
| FL | 500 hours | 0 hours |
| AL | 650 hours | +150 hours |
| TN | 650 hours | +150 hours |
| SC | 650 hours | +150 hours |
| NC | 650 hours | +150 hours |
Healthcare in Georgia
13 paths| Career | License | Median salary |
|---|---|---|
| Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) | Required | $36,570 |
| Dental Assistant | No | $45,600 |
| EMT | Required | $39,250 |
| Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) | Required | $58,490 |
| Medical Assistant | No | $39,000 |
| Medical Coder | No | $48,990 |
| Paramedic | Required | $39,250 |
| Pharmacy Technician | Required | $38,390 |
| Phlebotomist | No | $43,340 |
| Radiology Technologist | No | $67,270 |
| Respiratory Therapist | Required | $81,890 |
| Surgical Technologist | No | $60,880 |
| Dental Hygienist | Required | $83,500 |
Trades in Georgia
8 paths| Career | License | Median salary |
|---|---|---|
| CDL Truck Driver | Required | $56,570 |
| Electrician | Required | $58,860 |
| HVAC Technician | Required | $55,020 |
| Plumber | Required | $56,290 |
| Welder | No | $48,000 |
| Barber | Required | $47,630 |
| Cosmetologist | Required | $30,790 |
| Massage Therapist | Required | $56,740 |
Professional in Georgia
6 paths| Career | License | Median salary |
|---|---|---|
| CPA (Certified Public Accountant) | Required | $80,100 |
| Notary Public | Required | — |
| Paralegal | No | $55,120 |
| Personal Trainer | No | $45,210 |
| Insurance Agent | Required | $50,210 |
| Real Estate Agent | Required | $56,190 |