Psychology in California: Learn About Becoming a Psychologist in CA
- Licensure Requirements
- How Long Does it Take?
- Out-of-State Licensing
- Licensing Renewal
- Salary Expectations
- Professional Organizations
- FAQ
California employs more psychologists than any other state and pays some of the highest salaries in the field. High-quality psychology programs in California are also plentiful.
As with every other state, you must obtain a license to practice psychology in California. To earn your psychology license in the state, you’ll need to meet several requirements, which require earning a doctorate and completing clinical requirements. These standards ensure that psychologists are prepared to assist patients safely and effectively.
This in-depth guide covers what you need to know to earn your psychologist license in California.
California Psychology Licensure Requirements
California offers two types of psychology licensure: psychologist and licensed educational psychologist (LEP). The California Board of Psychology oversees psychologist licensure, while the state’s Board of Behavioral Sciences (BBS) regulates LEP licensure.
Each license has distinct educational and experience requirements. Explore what it takes to earn each credential below.
Psychologist License
Aspiring professionals must complete the California psychology licensure requirements listed below.
- Earn a doctorate in a psychology-related discipline from an accredited institution.
- Complete at least 3,000 hours of supervised professional experience, including a minimum of 1,500 hours completed after your doctorate.
- Pass two key exams: the Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP) and the California Psychology Laws and Ethics Examination (CPLEE).
- Finish pre-licensure courses in six disciplines (human sexuality, alcohol/chemical dependency, child abuse assessment, partner abuse assessment, aging and long-term care, and suicide risk intervention).
Licensed psychologists in California can practice independently and provide assessments, diagnoses, and treatment for individuals and groups. In addition to the above requirements, each candidate must pass a criminal background check and pay all applicable fees.
Licensed Educational Psychologist (LEP)
LEPs are school psychologists who have completed more advanced coursework and possess extensive experience in the field. The following list covers California licensure requirements for LEPs.
- Earn a master’s degree in psychology or a similar discipline from a properly accredited program.
- Complete at least three years of professional experience as a public school psychologist, including at least one year of supervised experience.
- Pass the BBS LEP written exam.
Unlike school psychologists, LEPs in California are fully licensed in their field and can practice outside the public school system. They can administer educational evaluations, counseling, consultations, diagnostic tests, and treatment plans. Along with the requirements above, each LEP candidate must submit fingerprints and a criminal background check.
How Long Does It Take to Become a Psychologist in California?
It takes about 13 years to complete California’s psychology licensure requirements. That includes a four-year bachelor’s, a two-year master’s, a five-year doctorate, and two years of professional experience.
However, shorter pathways may be available. For example, not all California doctoral programs require a master’s degree, which could save years of study time. You may also find accelerated bachelor’s programs, which could reduce your undergraduate studies by a year or more.
Finally, though it may not be possible for everyone, committing to a full-time learning workload can help further condense your timeline.
Out-of-State Licensing Reciprocity in California
California does not provide licensing reciprocity for licensed psychologists or LEPs from other states. However, an out-of-state licensed psychologist can meet California’s requirements by passing the CPLEE, paying the application fee, and completing the pre-licensure courses throughout the application process.
California considers applications from licensed LEPs in Massachusetts, but candidates must meet all licensure requirements, including passing the BBS’ written LEP exam.
How to Renew a Psychology License in California
California’s psychologists need to renew their licenses every two years. Renewal requires a minimum of 36 hours of continuing professional development (CPD), including at least four hours in laws and ethics and four hours in cultural diversity training related to psychology.
Eligible CPDs include professional activities, academic, sponsored continuing education, and board certification training.
Each LEP must also renew their license every two years and complete at least 36 hours of continuing education (CE). Mandatory CE includes at least six hours of law and ethics courses and one-time courses in telehealth and suicide risk and assessment. New licensees also need to complete one-time courses in child abuse assessment and reporting and alcoholism and chemical dependency.
Salary Expectations for Psychologists in California
California has the country’s largest psychologist workforce and some of the highest wages in the sector. In fact, the state pays the second-highest clinical and school psychologist salaries, along with the highest wages for all other psychologists nationwide.
California pays clinical and counseling psychologists over $25,000 more than the national average for all occupations.
| Occupation | Average Annual Salary | Average Hourly Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Clinical and Counseling Psychologists | $132,410 | $63.66 |
| School Psychologists | $109,830 | $52.80 |
| Psychologists, All Other | $134,360 | $64.60 |
Professional Organizations for Psychologists in California
California Board of Psychology
Founded in 1958, this state board regulates the state’s licensed psychologists and ensures professionals can practice safely and independently. The board reviews all license and renewal applications.
California Psychological Association
This association supports the state’s licensed psychologists with CE and professional development opportunities.
California Association of School Psychologists
CASP provides access to resources and professional development opportunities. This organization also advocates for the profession and its beneficiaries by campaigning for additional funding and initiatives.
Frequently Asked Questions About Psychology Licensure
For California psychology licensure, you need a doctorate in psychology, 3,000 hours of professional experience, and a passing score on the EPPP and CPLEE. LEPs need a master’s in psychology, at least three years of professional experience, and a passing score on the LEP exam.
Psychology in Nevada: Learn About Becoming a Psychologist in NV
Considering practicing psychology in Nevada? This guide to earning a psychologist license in Nevada explains the requirements, process, and typical salaries.
