Athletic Trainer / California
2026 data California board official source

California Athletic Trainer License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

State-board requirements, fees, and renewal cycle drawn from official regulator records.

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Prevents and treats injuries for athletes. Requires BOC examination.

What the California data shows for Athletic Trainers

Becoming a licensed athletic trainer in California means clearing a defined set of hurdles: 3,486 training hours, a passing score on BOC Examination, plus a background history check once the applicant turns 18. California regulators place this credential inside their licensing framework, which classifies the training track as "Masters Degree".

The initial price tag is $247, and renewal costs $198 every 2 years. The license also carries an ongoing 50-hour continuing-education requirement per 2-year cycle that adds to the true cost of staying licensed.

Reciprocity for this profession works like this: Athletic Training Compact: adoption underway.

Licensing Requirements in California

Education / Training Hours
Masters Degree
3,486 hours
Exam Requirement
BOC Examination
Required
Initial License Fee
$247
Renewal Fee
$198
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
50 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years

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Compare all states for Athletic Trainer All California licenses
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with California licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Athletic Trainer in California? ▼
In California, the license path calls for 3486 education/training hours, a passing score on BOC Examination, and a $247 initial fee. A criminal background check is required as well.
How do I get certified as an Athletic Trainer in California? ▼
To become a licensed athletic trainer in California, you must meet the state's requirements including 3486 hours of education. You must also pass the required examination. Contact the California licensing board to verify current requirements.
Can I transfer my Athletic Trainer license to California from another state? ▼
Reciprocity for athletic trainers nationally works like this: Athletic Training Compact: adoption underway. Beyond that baseline, interstate compacts exist for many professions and may smooth a transfer into California. Verify the specifics with the California licensing board.
Does California require a background check for Athletic Trainer licensing? ▼
California does require a background check before issuing an athletic trainer license. What counts as disqualifying, and how it's reviewed, is up to the state licensing board.
What are the continuing education requirements for Athletic Trainer in California? ▼
To stay licensed as an athletic trainer in California, plan on 50 hours of continuing education per 2-year renewal cycle; renewal itself runs $198.

Related Guides

Source: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice License to Work (3rd Ed.), state licensing board websites

Read our methodology - how this data is sourced, computed, and verified.