Application Fee
See agencyVerified by CA Board of Technology
Software Developer Licensing in California
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for software developer in California, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 21, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
Renewal al Period: Every three yearsLicensing Blueprint for Software Developer in California
Estimated timeline: 1-6 yearsCore Requirements
- 1
License Type: Register with licensing agency.
- 2
Fees: Application $100.00
- Examination $300.00
- Recertification $100.00.
- 3
Examination Frequency: Biannually (twice a year).
- 4
Exam Locations: Sacramento, Los Angeles.
- 5
Experience Requirement: Varies by Class.
- 6
Class A – 6 years experience with Type I/II construction inspection.
- 7
Class B – 4 years experience with Type I/II construction inspection.
Exam and processing details
- Frequency
- Biannually (twice a year). Locations: Sacramento, Los Angeles Experience
Continuing education and program notes
- Certified by the Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development, Facilities Development Division
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Health Care Access and Information • Facilities Development Division
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
Renewal al Period: Every three years
- Salary Position
$170,910 median (28% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#1 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (7)
- 1. Meet California eligibility requirements for Software Developer licensure.
- 2. Complete approved education or training requirements.
- 3. Document required supervised experience (Experience Requirement: Varies by Class.).
- 4. Pass required examination steps: Frequency: Biannually (twice a year). Locations: Sacramento, Los Angeles Experience.
- 5. Prepare supporting documentation (Fees: Application $100.00; Examination $300.00; Recertification $100.00.).
- 6. Submit the application to Department of Health Care Access and Information~Facilities Development Division and monitor board communications.
- 7. Maintain post-licensure compliance (renewal cycle: Renewal al Period: Every three years).
Salary Insights in California
With a median salary of $170,910, Software Developers in California earn 28% above the national median of $133,080. California ranks #1 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 1-6 years.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1.4%Average Weekly Wage
$1,758Median annual salary
$170,910Hourly estimate
$82.1728% above national median
Difference: +$37,830
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationSoftware Developer Salary Ranking
#1 of 50 statesfor Software Developer median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | California | $170,910 |
| #2 | Washington | $166,910 |
| #3 | New York | $161,260 |
| #4 | Massachusetts | $150,520 |
| #5 | Maryland | $137,890 |
Nearby States Comparison
Software Developer licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | $170,910 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 1-6 years |
| Oregon | $135,260 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Nevada | $129,030 | Degree required | State-approved exam | 2-7 years |
| Arizona | $128,690 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
License 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
Official website verified
Department of Health Care Access and Information • Facilities Development Division
2020 W. El Camino Ave, Suite 800, Sacramento, CA, 95833
Phone: 9164408300
Related Careers in California
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Network Architects | $138,350 | Varies by state board | 18 years |
| Cybersecurity Analyst | $140,660 | Varies by state board | 23 years |
| Database Architects | $159,130 | Varies by state board | 18 years |
| IT Project Manager | $128,750 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Software Developer in California?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 1-6 years, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What is the typical Software Developer salary in California?
The median annual salary for Software Developers in California is $170,910.
How does the Software Developer salary in California compare to the national average?
Software Developers in California earn 28% above the national median of $133,080, with a state median of $170,910.
How many Software Developers work in California?
California employs approximately 292,630 Software Developers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Software Developer 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 Software Developers in California?
The licensing agency is Department of Health Care Access and Information / Facilities Development Division. Review agency details at https://oshpd.ca.gov/.
How often do you renew a Software Developer license in California?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of Renewal al Period: Every three years.