Certifications & licenses in Georgia
Compare requirements, salaries, and career paths for 28 professional credentials in GA. Data from BLS OEWS and primary state licensing sources.
What's different about Georgia
Licensing landscape in 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
Metro concentration of certified careers
Cost-of-living adjusted earnings in Georgia
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.
Regional comparison: Georgia vs. neighbors
| State | Median annual wage | vs GA |
|---|---|---|
| GA | $37,680 | — |
| FL | $37,510 | -0% vs GA |
| AL | $34,140 | -9% vs GA |
| TN | $37,990 | +1% vs GA |
| SC | $37,220 | -1% vs GA |
| NC | $38,460 | +2% 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
14 paths| Career | License | Median salary |
|---|---|---|
| Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) | Required | $37,680 |
| Dental Assistant | No | $46,840 |
| EMT | Required | $45,550 |
| Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) | Required | $62,030 |
| Medical Assistant | No | $41,600 |
| Medical Coder | No | $51,550 |
| Paramedic | Required | $57,660 |
| Pharmacy Technician | Required | $41,910 |
| Phlebotomist | No | $45,840 |
| Radiology Technologist | No | $74,550 |
| Registered Nurse (RN) | Required | $93,550 |
| Respiratory Therapist | Required | $83,700 |
| Surgical Technologist | No | $64,010 |
| Dental Hygienist | Required | $95,490 |
Skilled Trades in Georgia
5 paths| Career | License | Median salary |
|---|---|---|
| CDL Truck Driver | Required | $57,050 |
| Electrician | Required | $58,320 |
| HVAC Technician | Required | $56,390 |
| Plumber | Required | $57,200 |
| Welder | No | $48,430 |
Personal Care & Wellness in Georgia
4 paths| Career | License | Median salary |
|---|---|---|
| Personal Trainer | No | $47,150 |
| Barber | Required | $30,750 |
| Cosmetologist | Required | $34,560 |
| Massage Therapist | Required | $50,820 |
Professional & Business in Georgia
5 paths| Career | License | Median salary |
|---|---|---|
| CPA (Certified Public Accountant) | Required | $81,900 |
| Notary Public | Required | — |
| Paralegal | No | $62,400 |
| Insurance Agent | Required | $61,850 |
| Real Estate Agent | Required | $46,730 |