Application Fee
See agencyVerified by CA Board of Healthcare
Surgical Technologists Licensing in California
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for surgical technologists in California, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 21, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Surgical Technologists in California
Estimated timeline: 1-17 yearsCore Requirements
- 1
License Type: Register with licensing agency.
- 2
Examination Application*: $300 (California School Graduate)
- $330 (Equivalency/Non-California School Graduate).
- 3
*This fee amount is for the evaluation of your application materials only.
- 4
It does not include the examination administration fee charged by the National Council State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN).
- 5
Upon written notification of exam eligibility, applicants must submit their NCLEX registration fee directly to the NCLEX Data Center to register for their vocational nursing examination.
- 6
Fingerprint processing: $49.
- 7
License: $300.
Exam and processing details
- Application*: $300 (California School Graduate)
- $330 (Equivalency/Non-California School Graduate) *This fee amount is for the evaluation of your application materials only. It does not include the examination administration fee charged by the National Council State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN). Upon written notification of exam eligibility, applicants must submit their NCLEX registration fee directly to the NCLEX Data Center to register for their vocational nursing examination. Fingerprint processing: $49 License: $300 Frequency: Year-round
- Monday through Saturday. Locations: 23 locations in California
- multiple locations nationwide. Experience
Continuing education and program notes
- Center to register for their vocational nursing examination
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Fingerprint processing | $49 |
| License | $300 |
| Renewal | $305 |
| Interim Permit | $50 |
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Consumer Affairs • Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$81,120 median (29% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#1 of 49 states
Step-by-Step Process (6)
- 1. Meet California eligibility requirements for Surgical Technologists licensure.
- 2. Complete approved education or training requirements.
- 3. Pass required examination steps: Application*: $300 (California School Graduate); $330 (Equivalency/Non-California School Graduate) *This fee amount is for the evaluation of your application materials only. It....
- 4. Prepare supporting documentation (Examination Application*: $300 (California School Graduate); $330 (Equivalency/Non-California School Graduate).; *This fee amount is for the evaluation of your application materials only.).
- 5. Budget filing costs (Fingerprint processing: $49; License: $300).
- 6. Submit the application to Department of Consumer Affairs~Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in California
With a median salary of $81,120, Surgical Technologistss in California earn 29% above the national median of $62,830. California ranks #1 among 49 states. The typical licensing timeline is 1-17 years.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1.4%Average Weekly Wage
$1,758Median annual salary
$81,120Hourly estimate
$39.0029% above national median
Difference: +$18,290
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationSurgical Technologists Salary Ranking
#1 of 49 statesfor Surgical Technologists median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | California | $81,120 |
| #2 | Connecticut | $80,590 |
| #3 | Oregon | $79,410 |
| #4 | Alaska | $79,040 |
| #5 | Massachusetts | $78,300 |
Nearby States Comparison
Surgical Technologists 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 | 58 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. 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 Consumer Affairs • Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians
2535 Capitol Oaks Drive, Suite 205, Sacramento, CA, 95833
Phone: 9162637800
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| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acupuncturist | $77,640 | Varies by state board | 1-2 years |
| Anesthesiologist | N/A | Varies by state board | 1-12 months |
| Athletic Trainer | $74,150 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Audiologist | $123,600 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Surgical Technologists in California?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 1-17 years, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What is the typical Surgical Technologists salary in California?
The median annual salary for Surgical Technologistss in California is $81,120. Salaries range from $57,070 (10th percentile) to $114,390 (90th percentile).
How does the Surgical Technologists salary in California compare to the national average?
Surgical Technologistss in California earn 29% above the national median of $62,830, with a state median of $81,120.
How many Surgical Technologistss work in California?
California employs approximately 10,570 Surgical Technologistss according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Surgical Technologists 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 Surgical Technologistss in California?
The licensing agency is Department of Consumer Affairs / Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians. Review agency details at https://www.bvnpt.ca.gov/.
How often do you renew a Surgical Technologists license in California?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.