Certified Nurse-Midwife / California
2026 data California board official source

California Certified Nurse-Midwife License Requirements

Compiled from official source data by PlainCredential

Requirements, fees, and renewal timing for this license, sourced from state board records.

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Provides prenatal, birth, and postpartum care. Scope varies by state.

What the California data shows for Certified Nurse-Midwifes

California sets the entry bar for certified nurse-midwifes at 1,000 training hours and a passing score on a state-approved exam. A background check is a standard part of the process. The credential is administered under California's licensing regime, which classifies the training track as "Certificate/Degree".

Upfront cost is $100 on a 2-year cycle. There's no continuing-education mandate tied to this profession in California, which keeps the long-run cost of staying licensed lighter than in CE-heavy states.

California evaluates out-of-state credentials case-by-case rather than through a published reciprocity list.

Licensing Requirements in California

Education / Training Hours
Certificate/Degree
1,000 hours
Exam Requirement
Required
Initial License Fee
$100
Renewal Fee
N/A
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
Not required
Criminal History Check
Required

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Compare all states for Certified Nurse-Midwife 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 Certified Nurse-Midwife in California? ▼
California requires 1000 education/training hours, passing an exam, and an initial fee of $100. A criminal background check is also required.
How do I get certified as a Certified Nurse-Midwife in California? ▼
Certification as a certified nurse-midwife in California means clearing the state's checklist: 1000 hours of education, and a passing exam score. The California licensing board can confirm the current details.
Can I transfer my Certified Nurse-Midwife license to California from another state? ▼
Out-of-state certified nurse-midwife credentials get a case-by-case review in California rather than automatic recognition. Interstate compacts exist for a number of professions and might still help. Confirm the details with the California licensing board.
Does California require a background check for Certified Nurse-Midwife licensing? ▼
California does require a background check before issuing a certified nurse-midwife license. What counts as disqualifying, and how it's reviewed, is up to the state licensing board.

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.