Surgical Technologist / California
2026 data California board official source

California Surgical Technologist 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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Assists in surgical operations under the supervision of surgeons.

What the California data shows for Surgical Technologists

California's path to surgical technologist licensure runs through 1,000 hours of approved instruction and a passing score on a state-approved exam, plus a criminal history screening. California folds the credential into its broader occupational licensing statute, which classifies the training track as "Certificate/Degree".

Upfront cost is $100 on a 2-year cycle. Continuing education is not a listed requirement for this profession in California, so the annualized maintenance burden is lower than in states that mandate ongoing hours.

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 Surgical Technologist 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 Surgical Technologist in California? ▼
California's requirements cover 1000 hours of education or training, a state exam, and an initial fee of $100. Applicants also go through a criminal background check.
How do I get certified as a Surgical Technologist in California? ▼
California licenses surgical technologists who complete its requirements (1000 education hours) and a passing exam. Verify the latest details with the California licensing board.
Can I transfer my Surgical Technologist license to California from another state? ▼
Out-of-state surgical technologist 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 Surgical Technologist licensing? ▼
Background screening is part of the surgical technologist licensing process in California. The state licensing board determines which offenses disqualify an applicant and how appeals are handled.

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.