Certifications & licenses in Louisiana
Compare requirements, salaries, and career paths for 28 professional credentials in LA. Data from BLS OEWS and primary state licensing sources.
What's different about Louisiana
Licensing landscape in Louisiana
In 2024, Louisiana passed SB 353, increasing required massage therapy training hours from 500 to 625, with schools required to comply by December 31, 2026.
Louisiana State Legislature
To obtain a cosmetology license in Louisiana, you must complete 1,500 hours of training at an approved school and be at least 16 years old.
Louisiana Board of Cosmetology
To become a journeyman plumber, an apprentice must complete 8,000 hours of on-the-job experience, as of early 2025 regulations.
State Plumbing Board of Louisiana
As of November 2023, all initial EMT applicants must pay a $55.75 fee for a state and federal criminal history report through the Louisiana State Police system.
Louisiana Bureau of Emergency Medical Services
Metro concentration of certified careers
Cost-of-living adjusted earnings in Louisiana
A $60,000 salary in a high-cost state like California would have the approximate purchasing power of a $41,400 salary in Louisiana.
Regional comparison: Louisiana vs. neighbors
| State | Median annual wage | vs LA |
|---|---|---|
| LA | $30,510 | — |
| AR | $34,430 | +13% vs LA |
| MS | $31,520 | +3% vs LA |
| TX | $37,500 | +23% vs LA |
| State | Required training hours | vs LA |
|---|---|---|
| LA | 625 hours | — |
| AR | 500 hours | -125 hours |
| MS | 700 hours | +75 hours |
| TX | 500 hours | -125 hours |
Healthcare in Louisiana
14 paths| Career | License | Median salary |
|---|---|---|
| Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) | Required | $30,510 |
| Dental Assistant | No | $44,090 |
| EMT | Required | $35,870 |
| Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) | Required | $57,470 |
| Medical Assistant | No | $36,320 |
| Medical Coder | No | $44,610 |
| Paramedic | Required | $56,050 |
| Pharmacy Technician | Required | $44,410 |
| Phlebotomist | Required | $36,120 |
| Radiology Technologist | Required | $63,680 |
| Registered Nurse (RN) | Required | $80,230 |
| Respiratory Therapist | Required | $75,240 |
| Surgical Technologist | No | $57,370 |
| Dental Hygienist | Required | $85,240 |
Skilled Trades in Louisiana
5 paths| Career | License | Median salary |
|---|---|---|
| CDL Truck Driver | Required | $49,320 |
| Electrician | Required | $61,540 |
| HVAC Technician | Required | $58,650 |
| Plumber | Required | $63,680 |
| Welder | No | $62,250 |
Personal Care & Wellness in Louisiana
4 paths| Career | License | Median salary |
|---|---|---|
| Personal Trainer | No | $44,410 |
| Barber | Required | $44,430 |
| Cosmetologist | Required | $26,030 |
| Massage Therapist | Required | $36,480 |
Professional & Business in Louisiana
5 paths| Career | License | Median salary |
|---|---|---|
| CPA (Certified Public Accountant) | Required | $73,810 |
| Notary Public | Required | — |
| Paralegal | No | $60,250 |
| Insurance Agent | Required | $55,440 |
| Real Estate Agent | Required | $45,850 |