Application Fee
See agencyVerified by CA Board of Education
Librarian Licensing in California
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for librarian in California, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Librarian in California
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Register with licensing agency
- Education: Varies by state board
- Examination: State-approved exam
- Application Fee: See agency
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
California Commission on Teacher Credentialing • Certification Assignment and Waivers
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$86,590 median (35% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#2 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet baseline eligibility requirements.
- 2. Complete approved education/training requirements.
- 3. Pass required exam(s) and submit application.
- 4. Maintain and renew license according to board rules.
Salary Insights in California
With a median salary of 86,590, Librarians in California earn 35% above the national median of $64,320. California ranks #2 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1.4%Average Weekly Wage
$1,758Median annual salary
$86,590Hourly estimate
$41.6335% above national median
Difference: +$22,270
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationLibrarian Salary Ranking
#2 of 50 statesfor Librarian median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Washington | 94,400 |
| #2 | California | 86,590 |
| #3 | Maryland | 81,690 |
| #4 | Nevada | 79,710 |
| #5 | New Jersey | 79,380 |
Nearby States Comparison
Librarian licensing across the regionLicense by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Oregon | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Nevada | 64 | Medium | Documented experience may be required. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Arizona | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
California Commission on Teacher Credentialing • Certification Assignment and Waivers
1900 Capitol Ave, Sacramento, CA, 95811
Phone: 8889212682
Related Careers in California
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| K-12 Teacher | $98,190 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| School Counselor | $94,320 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Architect | $105,840 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Audiologist | $123,600 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Librarian in California?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 6-24 months, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What is the typical Librarian salary in California?
The median annual salary for Librarians in California is 86,590. Salaries range from $48,480 (10th percentile) to $130,760 (90th percentile).
How does the Librarian salary in California compare to the national average?
Librarians in California earn 35% above the national median of $64,320, with a state median of 86,590.
How many Librarians work in California?
California employs approximately 10,030 Librarians according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Librarian license to California from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Librarians in California?
The licensing agency is California Commission on Teacher Credentialing / Certification Assignment and Waivers. Review agency details at https://www.ctc.ca.gov/.