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
Estimated Costs Est.
- Application Fee
- $25
- Renewal Fee
- $318
- Total Estimated Cost
- $225
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
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
Submit Your Application
File your application with the licensing agency. Application fee: ~$25.
- 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.
View all states →Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 15, 2026.