How much does a Physician Assistant license cost in California?

The estimated total cost is $1,562, including application fees, and education costs.

How long does it take to get a Physician Assistant license in California?

The process typically takes 3-6 months after residency completion, depending on education completion and exam scheduling.

What exam do I need for a Physician Assistant license in California?

You need to pass the USMLE Steps 1-3. N/A

Physician Assistant License in California

To become a licensed physician in California, you must pay a $674 application fee, complete medical school and 1-2 years of ACGME-approved residency, and pass the USMLE. The initial license is $888 ($456.50 if in postgraduate training) with biennial renewal of $888. Total initial cost is approximately $1,562.

Exam: USMLE Steps 1-3
Total Cost: $1,562 (est.)
Timeline: 3-6 months after residency completion
Renewal: Every Biennial

Requirements

Physician Assistant license in California

gold

Veterans Benefits

N/A - Not displayed

Estimated Costs Est.

Application Fee: $674
Renewal Fee: $888
Total Estimated Cost: $1,562

Licensing Agency

Department of Consumer Affairs~Physician Assistant Board

Website 9165618780 Email

Cost Breakdown

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

Application Fee

$674

Renewal Fee

$888

Total Estimated Cost

$1,562

Education / School Cost

Enter the cost of your pre-licensing education program

Include first renewal fee ($888)

Application FeeEst.$674

Total Estimated Cost$674

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

$49,770

Median

$201,510

Experienced

$239,200

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: ~$674.
2

Receive Your License

Processing typically takes 3-6 months after residency completion.

Physician Assistant Licensing in California: What to Know

California provides exceptionally detailed requirements for Physician and Surgeon licensure. The application and fingerprint fee is $674, with an initial license fee of $888 (reduced to $456.50 for those in postgraduate training). Biennial renewal is $888. The USMLE is administered by the Federation of State Medical Boards at computerized testing sites. Education requirements include two years of pre-professional education, a minimum of four academic years of medical education from a recognized medical school, and one to two years of ACGME or RCPSC-approved postgraduate training. Average processing time is 80 days for initial review.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a Physician Assistant license cost in California?: The estimated total cost is $1,562, including application fees, and education costs.
How long does it take to get a Physician Assistant license in California?: The process typically takes 3-6 months after residency completion, depending on education completion and exam scheduling.
What exam do I need for a Physician Assistant license in California?: You need to pass the USMLE Steps 1-3. N/A