How to Get a Acupuncturist License in Utah
Last updated: March 2, 2026
Utah is one of the fastest-growing states with a booming Salt Lake City metro area, making it an excellent place to start a career as a acupuncturist. Licensing in Utah is overseen by the Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing. The process requires 2625 hours of pre-license education and costs between $52,500 and $53,500 in total. You'll need to pass the NCCAOM Certification Exams (administered by Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing) with a score of at least 70%.
At 2625 hours, Utah has one of the higher pre-license education requirements in the country. This is close to the national average of 2484 hours. Budget between $52,500 and $53,500 for the total licensing process, including education, application, and exam fees. Most aspiring acupuncturists complete the entire process in 4-7 months, depending on how quickly they move through the coursework and exam preparation.
Utah Acupuncturist License Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Minimum Age | 18 years old |
| Pre-License Education | 2625 hours |
| Degree Required | No |
| Exam Required | Yes — NCCAOM Certification Exams |
| Passing Score | 70% |
| Background Check | Yes |
| Broker Sponsorship | Not required |
| Application Fee | $160 |
| Exam Fee | $1,100 |
| Governing Body | Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing |
| License Reciprocity | Partial |
Reciprocity:
Steps to Get Your Acupuncturist License in Utah
- 1
Earn a Master's Degree in Acupuncture
Graduate from an ACAOM-accredited master's program in acupuncture or Oriental medicine. Programs typically take 3-4 years.
Time: 3-4 years Cost: $350 - 2
Pass the NCCAOM Certification Exams
Register and pass the NCCAOM (National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine) exams. The certification includes exams on acupuncture foundations, clinical practice, and biomedicine. The exam fee is $1100.
Time: 2-3 months Cost: $1,100 - 3
Complete Clean Needle Technique Course
Complete the CCAOM Clean Needle Technique (CNT) course, which covers sterile technique, bloodborne pathogen safety, and proper needle disposal.
Time: 1-2 days Cost: $150 - 4
Apply for State Licensure
Submit your application to the Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing. Include NCCAOM certification, transcripts, CNT certificate, and the application fee of $160.
Time: 4-8 weeks Cost: $160 - 5
Begin Your Acupuncture Practice
Once licensed, you can practice acupuncture in Utah. Many acupuncturists work in private practice, integrative health clinics, or alongside chiropractors and naturopaths.
Time: Immediate once licensed
Key Things to Know
- Education requirement: . Many providers offer online options, giving you flexibility to study on your own schedule.
- The licensing exam: The NCCAOM Certification Exams is administered by Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing. You'll need to score at least 70% to pass. Study materials and practice exams are available from most education providers.
- Background check required: Utah requires a criminal background check as part of the application process. Plan for additional processing time and fees.
- Online application available: Utah accepts online applications, which can speed up processing time.
- Ongoing requirements: Once licensed, you'll need 30 hours of continuing education every 2 years. .
How Utah Compares
Utah requires 2625 hours of pre-license education for acupuncturists. This is close to the national average of 2484 hours. The average total cost in Utah is around $53,000, compared to the national average of $51,250.
How Much Does a Acupuncturist License Cost in Utah?
| Cost Item | Estimated Range |
|---|---|
| Pre-License Education | $300 - $700 |
| Application Fee | $160 |
| Exam Fee | $1,100 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $52,500 - $53,500 |
License Renewal
- Renewal Period: Every 2 years
- Continuing Education: 30 hours
- CE Details:
- Renewal Fee: $160
Tips for Success
- Choose your education provider carefully: Compare prices, format (online vs. in-person), and reviews. Some providers offer exam prep materials bundled with the course, which can save you money. Check the Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing website for a list of approved providers.
- Don't rush the exam: With 2625 hours of required coursework, consider a structured schedule — completing one course at a time helps avoid burnout. Use practice exams to identify weak areas before scheduling your test date.
- Start studying for the NCCAOM early: The NCCAOM certification exams cover a broad range of acupuncture, herbal medicine, and biomedicine topics. Many students begin reviewing for the exams during their final semester rather than waiting until after graduation.
- Build an integrative practice network: Acupuncturists who collaborate with MDs, chiropractors, and physical therapists get more referrals. Start building relationships with other healthcare providers during your clinical rotations.
- Budget approximately $53,500 for your Utah license: This includes $160 in application fees, $1,100 for the exam, and education costs. Once licensed, plan for $160 in renewal fees every 2 years.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a acupuncturist license in Utah?
Most people complete the process in 3-6 months total. The pre-license education (2625 hours) takes the longest. After completing education, the exam and application process typically adds 2-6 weeks.
How much does it cost to get a acupuncturist license in Utah?
The total cost ranges from $52,500 to $53,500, including pre-license education, the application fee ($160), and the exam fee ($1100).
Can I get a Utah acupuncturist license with a criminal record?
The Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing evaluates criminal history on a case-by-case basis. Having a criminal record does not automatically disqualify you, but certain offenses may affect your eligibility. Contact the Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing for guidance before applying.
Do I need a college degree to become a acupuncturist in Utah?
No. Utah does not require a college degree. You only need to complete the 2625 hours of approved pre-license courses.
Can I take the pre-license courses online in Utah?
Many approved education providers offer pre-license courses online, allowing you to study at your own pace. Check the Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing website for a list of approved providers.
Sources
- Official website: Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing