Education Requirements
In order to obtain a license to practice acupuncture in California, one must qualify for and then take a written examination administered by the Board. There are three ways in which an individual may qualify to take the acupuncture examination:
- Complete the necessary curriculum requirements at a Board-approved training program. [Business and Professions Code, section 4938 & 4939; California Code of Regulations, sections 1399.434 and 1399.435]
- Complete a tutorial program approved by the Board. A tutorial program is similar to an apprenticeship, where an individual learns acupuncture under the supervision and guidance of a qualified acupuncturist and supplements theoretical training with courses taken from either a Board-approved school or an accredited university/college. [Business and Professions Code, section 4938, 4939, 4941, 4971; California Code of Regulations, sections 1399.420 - 432]
- Complete a foreign education training program which is equivalent to the curriculum required at an Acupuncture Board approved school. [Business and Professions Code Section 4938 & 4939; California Code of Regulations, sections 1399.434 and 1399.435]
