CRNA Advanced Practice

California CRNA License Requirements

Complete guide to becoming a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist in California

Processing Time

4-8 weeks

Initial Cost

$500

Renewal Period

2 years

Practice Authority

full

Official source: licensing in California is administered by the California Board of Registered Nursing. This guide summarizes the board's requirements — always confirm details there before applying. Already licensed? Look up a nursing license in California.

Apply on Official Site

Full Practice Authority

CRNA: state has opted out of the CMS Medicare physician-supervision requirement (July 2009); CRNAs may administer anesthesia without physician supervision under Medicare. State scope of practice may add requirements.

Prescriptive Authority: No independent prescriptive authority: per BPC 2725(b)(2) a CRNA administers anesthesia to implement a treatment ordered by a physician, dentist, or podiatrist; CRNAs do NOT practice under standardized procedures or use a furnishing number (Cal. Society of Anesthesiologists v. Brown, 204 Cal.App.4th 390).

1 Education Requirements

Degree Required

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

Note: As of January 1, 2025, entry-level nurse anesthetist programs must be doctoral (DNP or DNAP). CRNAs educated prior to this date with an MSN remain eligible.

Program Requirements

Complete accredited Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist program
Hold active RN license in the state
Clinical hours as specified by program

2 National Certification

Certification Body

NBCRNA

Required

Yes

National Board of Certification and Recertification for Nurse Anesthetists

3 Fees

Initial Licensure

Application Fee	$500
Total	$500

Renewal

Renewal Fee (every 2 years)

$150

Continuing Education Requirements

Contact hours required

2 years

Renewal cycle

Same as RN base

Prerequisites

To become a CRNA in California, you must first hold an active RN license and typically have ICU experience. California requires a state-specific RN license.

RN Requirements View California RN Requirements

California CRNA License FAQs

How much does a CRNA license cost in California?

Expect about $500 in total initial CRNA license costs in California, including a $500 application fee. Fees can change, so confirm current amounts with the California Board of Registered Nursing.

How many CE hours do CRNAs need to renew in California?

California CRNAs must complete 30 continuing education hours each 2-year renewal cycle. The renewal fee is $150.

How long does it take to get a CRNA license in California?

Most complete applications are processed in about 4 to 8 weeks, though background checks and application volume can extend the timeline.

Who issues CRNA licenses in California?

The California Board of Registered Nursing handles CRNA license applications, renewals, and verifications. You can reach the board at 916-322-3350.