LicenseCompass

Physician Assistant License in California

Quick Answer

To become a licensed physician assistant in California, you need to graduate from an accredited PA program and pass the PANCE. The application fee is $25, initial license is $200, and biennial renewal is $318. Processing takes approximately 30 days.

Exam
PANCE
Total Cost
$225 (est.)
Timeline
1-3 months after PA program graduation
Renewal
Every Biennial

Requirements

Physician Assistant license in California

gold
Veterans Benefits
N/A - Not displayed

Estimated Costs Est.

Application Fee
$25
Renewal Fee
$318
Total Estimated Cost
$225

Licensing Agency

Department of Consumer Affairs~Physician Assistant Board

Cost Breakdown

Estimated costs for getting your Physician Assistant license in California. Values marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions.

Enter the cost of your pre-licensing education program

$
Application FeeEst.$25
Total Estimated Cost$25

Fees marked "Est." are extracted from official descriptions and may not reflect current pricing. Verify with the California licensing board.

Physician Assistant Salary in California

Entry Level

$94,870

Median

$161,080

Experienced

$219,300

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salary data is for informational purposes only.

How to Get Licensed

Step-by-step roadmap to becoming a licensed Physician Assistant in California.

  1. 1

    Submit Your Application

    File your application with the licensing agency. Application fee: ~$25.

  2. 2

    Receive Your License

    Processing typically takes 1-3 months after PA program graduation.

Physician Assistant Licensing in California: What to Know

California provides clear fee information: $25 application processing fee, $200 initial licensing fee, and $318 biennial renewal. Average processing time is 30 days. The PANCE is administered by the NCCPA. California requires graduation from an accredited PA training program. Practice is governed by the Physician Assistant Practice Act (Business and Professions Code, Sections 3500-3546). California has a dedicated Physician Assistant Board under the Department of Consumer Affairs.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Physician Assistant license cost in California?
The estimated total cost is $225, including application fees, and education costs.
How long does it take to get a Physician Assistant license in California?
The process typically takes 1-3 months after PA program graduation, depending on education completion and exam scheduling.
What exam do I need for a Physician Assistant license in California?
You need to pass the PANCE. N/A

Considering another state?

Compare Physician Assistant requirements across states.

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Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 15, 2026.