HowToGetLicensed

Acupuncturist License: California vs North Carolina

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

Requirement California North Carolina
Education Hours 3000 hours 2625 hours
Exam California Acupuncture Licensing Exam (CALE) NCCAOM Certification Exams
Application Fee $150 $175
Exam Fee $600 $1,100
Total Estimated Cost $64,500 - $65,500 $53,500 - $54,500
Renewal Period Every 2 years Every 1 year
CE Hours 50 hours 25 hours
Renewal Fee $325 $175

Which State Is Easier or Cheaper?

Lower cost: North Carolina is the more affordable option, with an average total cost of $53,500-$54,500 compared to $64,500-$65,500.

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

Full State Guides

Compare acupuncturist requirements across all 50 states →