Physician Assistant / New Jersey
2026 data New Jersey board official source

New Jersey Physician Assistant License Requirements

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

Practices medicine under physician supervision. Requires PANCE exam and masters degree.

What the New Jersey data shows for Physician Assistants

New Jersey's path to physician assistant licensure runs through 3,973 hours of approved instruction and a passing score on PANCE (Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam), plus a criminal history screening before applicants younger than 18 can be licensed. New Jersey folds the credential into its broader occupational licensing statute, which classifies the training track as "Masters Degree (MPAS or MMS)".

Upfront cost is $295, with renewal running $262 on a 2-year cycle. Maintaining the license requires 100 hours of continuing education per 2-year cycle, an ongoing cost applicants often underestimate when budgeting the career.

On reciprocity, physician assistants should know: PA Licensure Compact: adoption underway in many states.

Licensing Requirements in New Jersey

Education / Training Hours
Masters Degree (MPAS or MMS)
3,973 hours
Exam Requirement
PANCE (Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam)
Required
Initial License Fee
$295
Renewal Fee
$262
Renewal Cycle
Every 2 years
Continuing Education
100 hrs/cycle
Criminal History Check
Required
Minimum Age
18 years
Data sources: NCSL Occupational Licensing Database, Institute for Justice, state licensing boards. Verify current requirements with New Jersey licensing authorities before making career decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What license do I need for Physician Assistant in New Jersey?
In New Jersey, the license path calls for 3973 education/training hours, a passing score on PANCE (Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam), and a $295 initial fee. A criminal background check is required as well.
How do I get certified as a Physician Assistant in New Jersey?
To become a licensed physician assistant in New Jersey, you must meet the state's requirements including 3973 hours of education. You must also pass the required examination. Contact the New Jersey licensing board to verify current requirements.
Can I transfer my Physician Assistant license to New Jersey from another state?
Physician Assistant licenses generally reciprocate as follows: PA Licensure Compact: adoption underway in many states. Interstate licensing compacts cover many professions and can further ease a move between states. The New Jersey licensing board can confirm the current rules for your credential.
Does New Jersey require a background check for Physician Assistant licensing?
A criminal background check is mandatory for physician assistant licensing in New Jersey. The state licensing board sets the disqualifying-offense criteria and review process.
What are the continuing education requirements for Physician Assistant in New Jersey?
To stay licensed as a physician assistant in New Jersey, plan on 100 hours of continuing education per 2-year renewal cycle; renewal itself runs $262.

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