HowToGetLicensed

Acupuncturist License: California vs Illinois

Thinking about getting your acupuncturist license? Here's how California and Illinois compare on education requirements, exam fees, total costs, and renewal obligations.

Requirement California Illinois
Education Hours 3000 hours 2625 hours
Exam California Acupuncture Licensing Exam (CALE) NCCAOM Certification Exams
Application Fee $150 $200
Exam Fee $600 $1,100
Total Estimated Cost $64,500 - $65,500 $54,500 - $55,500
Renewal Period Every 2 years Every 2 years
CE Hours 50 hours 30 hours
Renewal Fee $325 $75

Which State Is Easier or Cheaper?

Lower cost: Illinois is the more affordable option, with an average total cost of $54,500-$55,500 compared to $64,500-$65,500.

Fewer education hours: Illinois requires 2625 hours of pre-license education, compared to 3000 hours in California.

Full State Guides

Compare acupuncturist requirements across all 50 states →