California (CA)
California requires state licensure for Clinical Laboratory Scientists. Below are the renewal requirements, CE hours, and fees.
CRITICAL: Your printed expiration date may be wrong
Due to CDPH's IT migration, licenses may still print a two-year expiration date while actually requiring annual renewal. Check your license carefully. Licenses issued or renewed in 2025 that expire in 2027 do NOT transition until after the 2027 renewal.
California moved to annual renewal on Jan 1, 2026
CLS/MLT now need 12 CE hours every year (was 24 every 2 years). Renewal window narrowed to 30 days before expiration (was 60). Late fees double.
All License Types & Fees
| License Type | CE Hours | Fee | Late Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Clinical Laboratory Scientist (CLS) | 12h CE | $300 | $600 |
| Laboratory Director | 12h CE | $570 | $1140 |
| Phlebotomy Technician I/II / LPT | 3h CE | $150 | $300 |
Renewal Details
CE Requirements
Annual renewal effective Jan 1, 2026. 12 CE units within past 12 months for CLS/MLT/Director. Phlebotomy (CPT I/II, LPT) requires 3 CE hours. Renewal window is 30 days before expiration (was 60). Late renewal doubles the fee. CE certificates must show: provider name, licensee name (matching PERL), course name/number, credit hours, completion date, accredited agency number. Transcripts accepted only from accredited schools; a CE vendor's provider list is not acceptable. Licenses issued or renewed in 2025 that expire in 2027 do NOT transition to annual until after the 2027 renewal — the printed expiration date may show 2 years but annual renewal is still required for the transition cohort.
CE Certificate Requirements
- Provider name
- Licensee name (must match PERL exactly)
- Course name and/or number
- Credit hours awarded
- Completion date
- Accredited agency number (P.A.C.E. or state equivalent)
Transcripts from accredited schools accepted. A CE vendor's provider list is not acceptable documentation.
Renewal Window
30 days before expiration
Last Verified
August 28, 2026 against CDPH Laboratory Field Services
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Status
Requires State LicenseYou must maintain an active state license to practice in this state.
Verified August 28, 2026 by Site owner (CDPH LFS 2026 guidance).
Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and is not legal advice. Confirm all requirements with your state board before acting.
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