Policies and Standards Handbook (2008-2009) » Adobe Acrobat (.pdf)

Credentialing and Practice Requirements

In order to practice in California (excluding federal employment) the PA must successfully complete an accredited physician assistant program, pass the examination given by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants, and be licensed by the Physician Assistant Committee of the Medical Board of California. Physician assistants maintain national certification by earning 100 hours of continuing medical education every two years and re-certifying every six years. The Medical Board of California must approve supervising physicians. Specific questions regarding eligibility for or denial of California licensure should be directed to the:

Physician Assistant Committee
1424 Howe Avenue, Suite 35
Sacramento, CA 95825-3237
Phone: (916) 263-2670
or within the State of California: (800) 555-8038
Website: http://www.pac.ca.gov/

Note: The ability to obtain a state PA license may be compromised by a criminal record.

Professional Organizations

Additional information on physician assistant training and practice, relevant legislation, and resources on PA education and training programs can be obtained through the following resources:

American Academy of Physician Assistants
950 N. Washington Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
Phone: (703) 836-2272
Website: http://www.aapa.org

Physician Assistant Education Association
300 N. Washington Street, Suite 505
Alexandria, VA 22314-2544
Phone: (703) 548-5538
E-mail: info@PAEAonline.org
Website: http://www.paeaonline.org

California Academy of Physician Assistants
3100 W. Warner Avenue, Suite 3
Santa Ana, CA 92704
Phone: (714) 427-0321
E-mail: capa@capanet.org
Website: http://www.capanet.org