Business and Professions Code — Part 34 | BPC — United States — California law | Esheria

Business and Professions Code

Part 34 of 52 · provisions 6,601–6,800

This section says the act is called the Business and Professions Code.

Jurisdiction
United States — California
Instrument
Code
Citation
BPC
Version
Undated source snapshot
Language
en
Official source
View official record ↗
Complete work
View statute overview
.50 BMG rifles AI Transparency Act AI advertising AI compliance AI definitions AI detection tools AI transparency AI-generated content disclosures API interoperability Administration Administrative authority Administrative notice Advertising Alcohol purchase by minors Alcoholic beverages American Indian-made articles Animal blood banks Animal injury reporting Appaloosa horse awards Applications Asian medicine Attorney General notice Automotive repair Beer pricing and marketing +9,673 more

Statute overview

About this statute

This part may be cited as the Real Estate Law. This section says chapter definitions apply only to this part, unless the text says otherwise. “Commissioner” means the Real Estate Commissioner. “Department” means the Department of Real Estate in the Business and Consumer Services Agency. This section says certain references like “bureau” and “Real Estate Division” mean the Department of Real Estate, and it states the section becomes operative on July 1, 2018.

Read the provisions Ask with citations

Legal text

Provisions of Business and Professions Code

Showing 200 of 10,364

  1. 478.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 1.5. DENIAL, SUSPENSION AND REVOCATION OF LICENSES [475 - 499] ( Division 1.5 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. ) ## CHAPTER 1. General Provisions [475 - 478] ( Chapter 1 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. )

    Verify source ↗

    This section defines “application” and “material” for this division.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 1.5. DENIAL, SUSPENSION AND REVOCATION OF LICENSES [475 - 499] ( Division 1.5 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. ) ## CHAPTER 1. General Provisions [475 - 478] ( Chapter 1 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. ) ## 478. (a) As used in this division, “application” includes the original documents or writings filed and any other supporting documents or writings including supporting documents provided or filed contemporaneously, or later, in support of the application whether provided or filed by the applicant or by any other person in support of the application. (b) As used in this division, “material” includes a statement or omission substantially related to the qualifications, functions, or duties of the business or profession. (Added by Stats. 1992, Ch. 1289, Sec. 6. Effective January 1, 1993.)
  2. 480.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 1.5. DENIAL, SUSPENSION AND REVOCATION OF LICENSES [475 - 499] ( Division 1.5 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Denial of Licenses [480 - 489] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. )

    Verify source ↗

    Boards may deny certain licenses for qualifying convictions or formal discipline, but they cannot deny for arrests without convictions, dismissed convictions, or protected rehabilitation situations.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 1.5. DENIAL, SUSPENSION AND REVOCATION OF LICENSES [475 - 499] ( Division 1.5 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Denial of Licenses [480 - 489] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. ) ## 480. (a) Notwithstanding any other provision of this code, a board may deny a license regulated by this code on the grounds that the applicant has been convicted of a crime or has been subject to formal discipline only if either of the following conditions are met: (1) The applicant has been convicted of a crime within the preceding seven years from the date of application that is substantially related to the qualifications, functions, or duties of the business or profession for which the application is made, regardless of whether the applicant was incarcerated for that crime, or the applicant has been convicted of a crime that is substantially related to the qualifications, functions, or duties of the business or profession for which the application is made and for which the applicant is presently incarcerated or for which the applicant was released from incarceration within the preceding seven years from the date of application. However, the preceding seven-year limitation shall not apply in either of the following situations: (A) The applicant was convicted of a serious felony, as defined in Section 1192.7 of the Penal Code or a crime for which registration is required pursuant to paragraph (2) or (3) of subdivision (d) of Section 290 of the Penal Code. (B) The applicant was convicted of a financial crime currently classified as a felony that is directly and adversely related to the fiduciary qualifications, functions, or duties of the business or profession for which the application is made, pursuant to regulations adopted by the board, and for which the applicant is seeking licensure under any of the following: (i) Chapter 6 (commencing with Section 6500) of Division 3. (ii) Chapter 9 (commencing with Section 7000) of Division 3. (iii) Chapter 11.3 (commencing with Section 7512) of Division 3. (iv) Licensure as a funeral director or cemetery manager under Chapter 12 (commencing with Section 7600) of Division 3. (v) Division 4 (commencing with Section 10000). (2) The applicant has been subjected to formal discipline by a licensing board in or outside California within the preceding seven years from the date of application based on professional misconduct that would have been cause for discipline before the board for which the present application is made and that is substantially related to the qualifications, functions, or duties of the business or profession for which the present application is made. However, prior disciplinary action by a licensing board within the preceding seven years shall not be the basis for denial of a license if the basis for that disciplinary action was a conviction that has been dismissed pursuant to Section 1203.4, 1203.4a, 1203.41, 1203.42, or 1203.425 of the Penal Code or a comparable dismissal or expungement. Formal discipline that occurred earlier than seven years preceding the date of application may be grounds for denial of a license only if the formal discipline was for conduct that, if committed in this state by a physician and surgeon licensed pursuant to Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 2000) of Division 2, would have constituted an act of sexual abuse, misconduct, or relations with a patient pursuant to Section 726 or sexual exploitation as defined in subdivision (a) of Section 729. (b) Notwithstanding any other provision of this code, a person shall not be denied a license on the basis that the person has been convicted of a crime, or on the basis of acts underlying a conviction for a crime, if that person has obtained a certificate of rehabilitation under Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 4852.01) of Title 6 of Part 3 of the Penal Code, has been granted clemency or a pardon by a state or federal executive, or has made a showing of rehabilitation pursuant to Section 482. (c) Notwithstanding any other provision of this code, a person shall not be denied a license on the basis of any conviction, or on the basis of the acts underlying the conviction, that has been dismissed pursuant to Section 1203.4, 1203.4a, 1203.41, 1203.42, or 1203.425 of the Penal Code, or a comparable dismissal or expungement. An applicant who has a conviction that has been dismissed pursuant to Section 1203.4, 1203.4a, 1203.41, or 1203.42 of the Penal Code shall provide proof of the dismissal if it is not reflected on the report furnished by the Department of Justice. (d) Notwithstanding any other provision of this code, a board shall not deny a license on the basis of an arrest that resulted in a disposition other than a conviction, including an arrest that resulted in an infraction, citation, or a juvenile adjudication. (e) A board may deny a license regulated by this code on the ground that the applicant knowingly made a false statement of fact that is required to be revealed in the application for the license. A board shall not deny a license based solely on an applicant’s failure to disclose a fact that would not have been cause for denial of the license had it been disclosed. (f) A board shall follow the following procedures in requesting or acting on an applicant’s criminal history information: (1) A board issuing a license pursuant to Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 5500), Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 5615), Chapter 10 (commencing with Section 7301), Chapter 20 (commencing with Section 9800), or Chapter 20.3 (commencing with Section 9880), of Division 3, or Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 19000) or Chapter 3.1 (commencing with Section 19225) of Division 8 may require applicants for licensure under those chapters to disclose criminal conviction history on an application for licensure. (2) Except as provided in paragraph (1), a board shall not require an applicant for licensure to disclose any information or documentation regarding the applicant’s criminal history. However, a board may request mitigating information from an applicant regarding the applicant’s criminal history for purposes of determining substantial relation or demonstrating evidence of rehabilitation, provided that the applicant is informed that disclosure is voluntary and that the applicant’s decision not to disclose any information shall not be a factor in a board’s decision to grant or deny an application for licensure. (3) If a board decides to deny an application for licensure based solely or in part on the applicant’s conviction history, the board shall notify the applicant in writing of all of the following: (A) The denial or disqualification of licensure. (B) Any existing procedure the board has for the applicant to challenge the decision or to request reconsideration. (C) That the applicant has the right to appeal the board’s decision. (D) The processes for the applicant to request a copy of the applicant’s complete conviction history and question the accuracy or completeness of the record pursuant to Sections 11122 to 11127 of the Penal Code. (g) (1) For a minimum of three years, each board under this code shall retain application forms and other documents submitted by an applicant, any notice provided to an applicant, all other communications received from and provided to an applicant, and criminal history reports of an applicant. (2) Each board under this code shall retain the number of applications received for each license and the number of applications requiring inquiries regarding criminal history. In addition, each licensing authority shall retain all of the following information: (A) The number of applicants with a criminal record who received notice of denial or disqualification of licensure. (B) The number of applicants with a criminal record who provided evidence of mitigation or rehabilitation. (C) The number of applicants with a criminal record who appealed any denial or disqualification of licensure. (D) The final disposition and demographic information, consisting of voluntarily provided information on race or gender, of any applicant described in subparagraph (A), (B), or (C). (3) (A) Each board under this code shall annually make available to the public through the board’s internet website and through a report submitted to the appropriate policy committees of the Legislature deidentified information collected pursuant to this subdivision. Each board shall ensure confidentiality of the individual applicants. (B) A report pursuant to subparagraph (A) shall be submitted in compliance with Section 9795 of the Government Code. (h) “Conviction” as used in this section shall have the same meaning as defined in Section 7.5. (i) This section does not in any way modify or otherwise affect the existing authority of the following entities in regard to licensure: (1) The State Athletic Commission. (2) The Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education. (3) The California Horse Racing Board. (Amended by Stats. 2022, Ch. 453, Sec. 1. (AB 1636) Effective January 1, 2023.)
  3. 480.2.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 1.5. DENIAL, SUSPENSION AND REVOCATION OF LICENSES [475 - 499] ( Division 1.5 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Denial of Licenses [480 - 489] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. )

    Verify source ↗

    Certain boards may deny licenses for specified conviction- and dishonesty-related grounds, but not solely because of certain rehabilitated or dismissed convictions.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 1.5. DENIAL, SUSPENSION AND REVOCATION OF LICENSES [475 - 499] ( Division 1.5 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Denial of Licenses [480 - 489] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. ) ## 480.2. (a) The Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education, the State Athletic Commission, and the California Horse Racing Board may deny a license regulated by it on the grounds that the applicant has one of the following: (1) Been convicted of a crime. (2) Done any act involving dishonesty, fraud, or deceit with the intent to substantially benefit themselves or another, or substantially injure another. (3) (A) Done any act that if done by a licentiate of the business or profession in question, would be grounds for suspension or revocation of license. (B) The Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education, the State Athletic Commission, and the California Horse Racing Board may deny a license pursuant to this subdivision only if the crime or act is substantially related to the qualifications, functions, or duties of the business or profession for which the application is made. (b) Notwithstanding any other provision of this code, a person shall not be denied a license solely on the basis that the person has been convicted of a felony if that person has obtained a certificate of rehabilitation under Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 4852.01) of Title 6 of Part 3 of the Penal Code or that the person has been convicted of a misdemeanor if the person has met all applicable requirements of the criteria of rehabilitation developed by the Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education, the State Athletic Commission, and the California Horse Racing Board to evaluate the rehabilitation of a person when considering the denial of a license under paragraph (1) of subdivision (f). (c) Notwithstanding any other provisions of this code, a person shall not be denied a license by the Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education, the State Athletic Commission, or the California Horse Racing Board solely on the basis of a conviction that has been dismissed pursuant to Section 1203.4, 1203.4a, 1203.41, or 1203.425 of the Penal Code. An applicant who has a conviction that has been dismissed pursuant to Section 1203.4, 1203.4a, or 1203.41 of the Penal Code shall provide proof of the dismissal. (d) The Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education, the State Athletic Commission, and the California Horse Racing Board may deny a license regulated by it on the ground that the applicant knowingly made a false statement of fact that is required to be revealed in the application for the license. (e) The Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education, the State Athletic Commission, and the California Horse Racing Board shall develop criteria to aid it, when considering the denial, suspension, or revocation of a license, to determine whether a crime or act is substantially related to the qualifications, functions, or duties of the business or profession it regulates. (f) (1) The Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education, the State Athletic Commission, and the California Horse Racing Board shall develop criteria to evaluate the rehabilitation of a person either when: (A) Considering the denial of a license under this section. (B) Considering suspension or revocation of a license under Section 490. (2) The Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education, the State Athletic Commission, and the California Horse Racing Board shall take into account all competent evidence of rehabilitation furnished by the applicant or licensee. (g) Except as otherwise provided by law, following a hearing requested by an applicant pursuant to subdivision (b) of Section 485, the Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education, the State Athletic Commission, and the California Horse Racing Board may take any of the following actions: (1) Grant the license effective upon completion of all licensing requirements by the applicant. (2) Grant the license effective upon completion of all licensing requirements by the applicant, immediately revoke the license, stay the revocation, and impose probationary conditions on the license, which may include suspension. (3) Deny the license. (4) Take other action in relation to denying or granting the license as the Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education, the State Athletic Commission, or the California Horse Racing Board, in its discretion, may deem proper. (h) Notwithstanding any other law, in a proceeding conducted by the Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education, the State Athletic Commission, or the California Horse Racing Board to deny an application for a license or to suspend or revoke a license or otherwise take disciplinary action against a person who holds a license, upon the ground that the applicant or the licensee has been convicted of a crime substantially related to the qualifications, functions, and duties of the licensee in question, the record of conviction of the crime shall be conclusive evidence of the fact that the conviction occurred, but only of that fact, and the Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education, the State Athletic Commission, and the California Horse Racing Board may inquire into the circumstances surrounding the commission of the crime in order to fix the degree of discipline or to determine if the conviction is substantially related to the qualifications, functions, and duties of the licensee in question. (i) Notwithstanding Section 7.5, a conviction within the meaning of this section means a plea or verdict of guilty or a conviction following a plea of nolo contendere. Any action that the Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education, the State Athletic Commission, or the California Horse Racing Board is permitted to take following the establishment of a conviction may be taken when the time for appeal has elapsed, the judgment of conviction has been affirmed on appeal, or when an order granting probation is made suspending the imposition of sentence, irrespective of a subsequent order under the provisions of Section 1203.4, 1203.4a, 1203.41, or 1203.425 of the Penal Code. (j) This section shall become operative on July 1, 2020. (Amended by Stats. 2019, Ch. 578, Sec. 3. (AB 1076) Effective January 1, 2020.)
  4. 480.5.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 1.5. DENIAL, SUSPENSION AND REVOCATION OF LICENSES [475 - 499] ( Division 1.5 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Denial of Licenses [480 - 489] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. )

    Verify source ↗

    A board may not delay processing or deny a license just because the applicant completed some licensing requirements while incarcerated, if the person applies after release and is otherwise eligible.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 1.5. DENIAL, SUSPENSION AND REVOCATION OF LICENSES [475 - 499] ( Division 1.5 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Denial of Licenses [480 - 489] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. ) ## 480.5. (a) An individual who has satisfied any of the requirements needed to obtain a license regulated under this division while incarcerated, who applies for that license upon release from incarceration, and who is otherwise eligible for the license shall not be subject to a delay in processing his or her application or a denial of the license solely on the basis that some or all of the licensure requirements were completed while the individual was incarcerated. (b) Nothing in this section shall be construed to apply to a petition for reinstatement of a license or to limit the ability of a board to deny a license pursuant to Section 480. (c) This section shall not apply to the licensure of individuals under the initiative act referred to in Chapter 2 (commencing with Section 1000) of Division 2. (Added by Stats. 2014, Ch. 410, Sec. 1. (AB 1702) Effective January 1, 2015.)
  5. 4800.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 1. Administration [4800 - 4811] ( Article 1 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. )

    Verify source ↗

    This section creates the California Veterinary Medical Board in the Department of Consumer Affairs and gives it authority over this chapter; it also says the section will repeal on January 1, 2030.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 1. Administration [4800 - 4811] ( Article 1 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## 4800. (a) There is in the Department of Consumer Affairs a California Veterinary Medical Board in which the administration of this chapter is vested. The board shall consist of the following nine members: (1) Four licensed veterinarians, at least one of whom shall practice in equine or livestock care, or both. (2) Two registered veterinary technicians. (3) Three public members. (b) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2030, and as of that date is repealed. (c) Notwithstanding any other law, the repeal of this section renders the board subject to review by the appropriate policy committees of the Legislature. However, the review of the board shall be limited to those issues identified by the appropriate policy committees of the Legislature and shall involve the preparation or submission of a sunset review document or evaluative questionnaire. (Amended by Stats. 2025, Ch. 195, Sec. 1. (AB 1502) Effective January 1, 2026. Repealed as of January 1, 2030, by its own provisions.)
  6. 4800.1.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 1. Administration [4800 - 4811] ( Article 1 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. )

    Verify source ↗

    The California Veterinary Medical Board must treat public protection as its top priority when carrying out licensing, regulatory, and disciplinary functions.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 1. Administration [4800 - 4811] ( Article 1 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## 4800.1. Protection of the public shall be the highest priority for the California Veterinary Medical Board in exercising its licensing, regulatory, and disciplinary functions. Whenever the protection of the public is inconsistent with other interests sought to be promoted, the protection of the public shall be paramount. (Amended by Stats. 2024, Ch. 497, Sec. 56. (SB 1526) Effective January 1, 2025.)
  7. 4801.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 1. Administration [4800 - 4811] ( Article 1 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. )

    Verify source ↗

    Board members must meet residency, licensing or registration, and practice-history requirements, and no person may serve more than two consecutive terms.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 1. Administration [4800 - 4811] ( Article 1 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## 4801. (a) Each veterinarian member of the board shall be a bona fide resident of this state for a period of at least five years immediately preceding his or her appointment and shall have been a licensed veterinarian under this chapter and actually engaged in the practice of veterinary medicine in this state during that period. (b) The registered veterinary technician member of the board shall be a bona fide resident of this state for a period of at least five years immediately preceding his or her appointment and shall have been registered under this chapter and actually engaged in the practice of a registered veterinary technician in this state during that period. (c) Each public member of the board shall be a bona fide resident of this state for a period of at least five years immediately preceding his or her appointment and shall not be a licensee or registrant of the board, any other board under this division, or any board referred to in Section 1000 or 3600. (d) No person shall serve as a member of the board for more than two consecutive terms. (Repealed and added by Stats. 2010, Ch. 538, Sec. 3. (AB 1980) Effective January 1, 2011.)
  8. 4802.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 1. Administration [4800 - 4811] ( Article 1 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. )

    Verify source ↗

    Board members serve four-year terms, may be reappointed subject to Section 4801, and vacancies must be filled within 90 days. The Governor and legislative appointing authorities must appoint specified board members.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 1. Administration [4800 - 4811] ( Article 1 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## 4802. The members of the board shall hold office for a term of four years. Each member shall serve until the appointment and qualification of his or her successor or until one year shall have elapsed since the expiration of the term for which he or she was appointed, whichever first occurs. A member may be reappointed subject to the limitation contained in Section 4801. Vacancies occurring shall be filled by appointment for the unexpired term, within 90 days after they occur. The Governor shall appoint the four veterinarian members, the one registered veterinary technician member, and one public member, qualified as provided in Section 4801. The Senate Committee on Rules and the Speaker of the Assembly shall each appoint a public member, qualified as provided in Section 4801. (Amended by Stats. 2010, Ch. 538, Sec. 4. (AB 1980) Effective January 1, 2011.)
  9. 4803.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 1. Administration [4800 - 4811] ( Article 1 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. )

    Verify source ↗

    The Governor may remove a board member for neglect of duty or other sufficient cause, but only after due notice and a hearing.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 1. Administration [4800 - 4811] ( Article 1 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## 4803. The Governor may, in his judgment, remove any member of the board for neglect of duty or other sufficient cause, after due notice and hearing. (Repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933.)
  10. 4804.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 1. Administration [4800 - 4811] ( Article 1 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. )

    Verify source ↗

    The board must choose a president, vice president, and any other needed officers from among its own members, and the Attorney General must act as counsel for the board and its members for acts done under color of official right.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 1. Administration [4800 - 4811] ( Article 1 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## 4804. The board shall elect a president, vice president, and any other officers of the board as shall be necessary, from its membership. The Attorney General shall act as counsel for the board and the members thereof in their official or individual capacity for any act done under the color of official right. (Amended by Stats. 1997, Ch. 642, Sec. 3. Effective January 1, 1998.)
  11. 4804.5.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 1. Administration [4800 - 4811] ( Article 1 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. )

    Verify source ↗

    The board may appoint a civil-service-exempt executive officer, and that officer may exercise powers and duties delegated by the board and this chapter.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 1. Administration [4800 - 4811] ( Article 1 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## 4804.5. (a) The board may appoint a person exempt from civil service who shall be designated as an executive officer and who shall exercise the powers and perform the duties delegated by the board and vested in them by this chapter. (b) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2030, and as of that date is repealed. (Amended by Stats. 2025, Ch. 195, Sec. 2. (AB 1502) Effective January 1, 2026. Repealed as of January 1, 2030, by its own provisions.)
  12. 4805.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 1. Administration [4800 - 4811] ( Article 1 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. )

    Verify source ↗

    The executive officer of the board may administer oaths or affirmations on matters related to the board’s business. A person who willfully makes a false oath or affirmation is guilty of perjury.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 1. Administration [4800 - 4811] ( Article 1 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## 4805. The executive officer of the board may administer oaths or affirmations upon matters pertaining to the business of the board. Any person willfully making any false oath or affirmation is guilty of perjury. (Amended by Stats. 1984, Ch. 47, Sec. 35. Effective March 21, 1984.)
  13. 4806.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 1. Administration [4800 - 4811] ( Article 1 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. )

    Verify source ↗

    Each board member is entitled to a per diem and expenses as provided in Section 103.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 1. Administration [4800 - 4811] ( Article 1 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## 4806. Each member of the board shall receive a per diem and expenses as provided in Section 103. (Amended by Stats. 1997, Ch. 642, Sec. 4. Effective January 1, 1998.)
  14. 4807.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 1. Administration [4800 - 4811] ( Article 1 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. )

    Verify source ↗

    Five board members make a quorum for doing board business at any meeting.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 1. Administration [4800 - 4811] ( Article 1 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## 4807. Five members of the board constitute a quorum for transaction of business at any meeting of the board. (Amended by Stats. 2010, Ch. 538, Sec. 6. (AB 1980) Effective January 1, 2011.)
  15. 4808.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 1. Administration [4800 - 4811] ( Article 1 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. )

    Verify source ↗

    The board may adopt, amend, or repeal necessary rules and regulations, may hold needed meetings, and must issue veterinary medicine licenses and veterinary technician registrations in this state.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 1. Administration [4800 - 4811] ( Article 1 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## 4808. The board may in accordance with the provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act, adopt, amend, or repeal rules and regulations that are reasonably necessary to carry into effect the provisions of this chapter. The board may hold meetings that are necessary for the transaction of business. It shall issue all licenses to practice veterinary medicine and all registrations to practice as a veterinary technician in this state. (Amended by Stats. 2009, Ch. 80, Sec. 2. (AB 107) Effective January 1, 2010.)
  16. 4809.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 1. Administration [4800 - 4811] ( Article 1 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. )

    Verify source ↗

    The board must keep an official record of its meetings and an official register of all license applicants.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 1. Administration [4800 - 4811] ( Article 1 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## 4809. The board shall keep an official record of its meetings, and it shall also keep an official register of all applicants for licenses. The register shall be prima facie evidence of all matters contained therein. (Amended by Stats. 1959, Ch. 477.)
  17. 4809.5.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 1. Administration [4800 - 4811] ( Article 1 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. )

    Verify source ↗

    The board may inspect premises where veterinary medicine, veterinary dentistry, or veterinary surgery is being practiced, but not premises that are not registered with the board.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 1. Administration [4800 - 4811] ( Article 1 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## 4809.5. The board may at any time inspect the premises in which veterinary medicine, veterinary dentistry, or veterinary surgery is being practiced. The board’s inspection authority does not extend to premises that are not registered with the board. Nothing in this section shall be construed to affect the board’s ability to investigate alleged unlicensed activity or to inspect a premises for which registration has lapsed or is delinquent. (Amended by Stats. 2013, Ch. 515, Sec. 21. (SB 304) Effective January 1, 2014.)
  18. 4809.6.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 1. Administration [4800 - 4811] ( Article 1 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. )

    Verify source ↗

    Only the California Veterinary Medical Board may enforce Sections 4809.5 and 4854, and the state has taken over enforcement of this chapter’s cleanliness and sanitary requirements.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 1. Administration [4800 - 4811] ( Article 1 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## 4809.6. The enforcement of Sections 4809.5 and 4854 of this chapter is a function exclusively reserved to the California Veterinary Medical Board and the state has preempted and occupied this field of enforcing the cleanliness and sanitary requirements of this chapter. (Amended by Stats. 2024, Ch. 497, Sec. 57. (SB 1526) Effective January 1, 2025.)
  19. 4809.7.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 1. Administration [4800 - 4811] ( Article 1 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. )

    Verify source ↗

    The board must run a regular inspection program for veterinary premises, including random announced or unannounced inspections, and must make every reasonable effort to inspect them in a timely manner.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 1. Administration [4800 - 4811] ( Article 1 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## 4809.7. The board shall establish a regular inspection program that will provide for random announced or unannounced inspections of veterinary premises. The board shall make every reasonable effort to ensure veterinary premises are inspected in a timely manner. (Amended by Stats. 2025, Ch. 195, Sec. 3. (AB 1502) Effective January 1, 2026.)
  20. 4809.8.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 1. Administration [4800 - 4811] ( Article 1 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. )

    Verify source ↗

    The board must create an advisory committee for veterinary medicine and set rules for its membership, terms, pay, and limits on its role.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 1. Administration [4800 - 4811] ( Article 1 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## 4809.8. (a) The board shall establish an advisory committee to assist, advise, and make recommendations for the implementation of rules and regulations necessary to ensure proper administration and enforcement of this chapter and to assist the board in its examination, licensure, and registration programs. The committee shall serve only in an advisory capacity to the board and the objectives, duties, and actions of the committee shall not be a substitute for or conflict with any of the powers, duties, and responsibilities of the board. The committee shall be known as the Veterinary Medicine Multidisciplinary Advisory Committee. The multidisciplinary committee shall consist of nine members. The following members of the multidisciplinary committee shall be appointed by the board from lists of nominees solicited by the board: four licensed veterinarians, two registered veterinary technicians, and one public member. The committee shall also include one veterinarian member of the board and one registered veterinary technician member of the board, both to be appointed by the board president. Members of the multidisciplinary committee shall represent a sufficient cross section of the interests in veterinary medicine in order to address the issues before it, as determined by the board, including veterinarians, registered veterinary technicians, and members of the public. (b) Multidisciplinary committee members appointed by the board shall serve for a term of three years and appointments shall be staggered accordingly. A member may be reappointed, but no person shall serve as a member of the committee for more than two consecutive terms. Vacancies occurring shall be filled by appointment for the unexpired term, within 90 days after they occur. Board members of the multidisciplinary committee shall serve concurrently with their terms of office on the board. (c) The multidisciplinary committee shall be subject to the requirements of Article 9 (commencing with Section 11120) of Chapter 1 of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code. (d) Multidisciplinary committee members shall receive a per diem as provided in Section 103 and shall be compensated for their actual travel expenses in accordance with the rules and regulations adopted by the Department of Human Resources. (e) The board may remove a member of the multidisciplinary committee appointed by the board for continued neglect of a duty required by this chapter, for incompetency, or for unprofessional conduct. (f) It is the intent of the Legislature that the multidisciplinary committee, in implementing this section, give appropriate consideration to issues pertaining to the practice of registered veterinarian technicians. (Amended by Stats. 2025, Ch. 195, Sec. 4. (AB 1502) Effective January 1, 2026.)
  21. 481.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 1.5. DENIAL, SUSPENSION AND REVOCATION OF LICENSES [475 - 499] ( Division 1.5 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Denial of Licenses [480 - 489] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. )

    Verify source ↗

    Boards must create and publish criteria for deciding when a crime is substantially related to a regulated profession, and may not deny a license based on a conviction without first considering rehabilitation evidence.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 1.5. DENIAL, SUSPENSION AND REVOCATION OF LICENSES [475 - 499] ( Division 1.5 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Denial of Licenses [480 - 489] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. ) ## 481. (a) Each board under this code shall develop criteria to aid it, when considering the denial, suspension, or revocation of a license, to determine whether a crime is substantially related to the qualifications, functions, or duties of the business or profession it regulates. (b) Criteria for determining whether a crime is substantially related to the qualifications, functions, or duties of the business or profession a board regulates shall include all of the following: (1) The nature and gravity of the offense. (2) The number of years elapsed since the date of the offense. (3) The nature and duties of the profession in which the applicant seeks licensure or in which the licensee is licensed. (c) A board shall not deny a license based in whole or in part on a conviction without considering evidence of rehabilitation submitted by an applicant pursuant to any process established in the practice act or regulations of the particular board and as directed by Section 482. (d) Each board shall post on its Internet Web site a summary of the criteria used to consider whether a crime is considered to be substantially related to the qualifications, functions, or duties of the business or profession it regulates consistent with this section. (e) This section does not in any way modify or otherwise affect the existing authority of the following entities in regard to licensure: (1) The State Athletic Commission. (2) The Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education. (3) The California Horse Racing Board. (f) This section shall become operative on July 1, 2020. (Repealed and added by Stats. 2018, Ch. 995, Sec. 7. (AB 2138) Effective January 1, 2019. Section operative July 1, 2020, by its own provisions.)
  22. 4810.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 1. Administration [4800 - 4811] ( Article 1 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. )

    Verify source ↗

    This section defines “Board,” “Multidisciplinary committee,” and “Regulations” for this chapter.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 1. Administration [4800 - 4811] ( Article 1 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## 4810. As used in this chapter: (a) “Board” means the California Veterinary Medical Board. (b) “Multidisciplinary committee” means the Veterinary Medicine Multidisciplinary Advisory Committee established pursuant to Section 4809.8. (c) “Regulations” means the rules and regulations set forth in Division 20 (commencing with Section 2000) of Title 16 of the California Code of Regulations. (Amended by Stats. 2024, Ch. 497, Sec. 58. (SB 1526) Effective January 1, 2025.)
  23. 4811.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 1. Administration [4800 - 4811] ( Article 1 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. )

    Verify source ↗

    This chapter may be cited as the “Veterinary Medicine Practice Act.”

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 1. Administration [4800 - 4811] ( Article 1 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## 4811. This chapter shall be known and may be cited as the “Veterinary Medicine Practice Act.” (Added by Stats. 1995, Ch. 60, Sec. 11. Effective July 6, 1995.)
  24. 482.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 1.5. DENIAL, SUSPENSION AND REVOCATION OF LICENSES [475 - 499] ( Division 1.5 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Denial of Licenses [480 - 489] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. )

    Verify source ↗

    Each board must create rehabilitation criteria for license denial, suspension, or revocation decisions, and must consider rehabilitation showings for applicants or licensees when the listed conditions are met.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 1.5. DENIAL, SUSPENSION AND REVOCATION OF LICENSES [475 - 499] ( Division 1.5 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Denial of Licenses [480 - 489] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. ) ## 482. (a) Each board under this code shall develop criteria to evaluate the rehabilitation of a person when doing either of the following: (1) Considering the denial of a license by the board under Section 480. (2) Considering suspension or revocation of a license under Section 490. (b) Each board shall consider whether an applicant or licensee has made a showing of rehabilitation if either of the following are met: (1) The applicant or licensee has completed the criminal sentence at issue without a violation of parole or probation. (2) The board, applying its criteria for rehabilitation, finds that the applicant is rehabilitated. (c) This section does not in any way modify or otherwise affect the existing authority of the following entities in regard to licensure: (1) The State Athletic Commission. (2) The Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education. (3) The California Horse Racing Board. (d) This section shall become operative on July 1, 2020. (Repealed and added by Stats. 2018, Ch. 995, Sec. 9. (AB 2138) Effective January 1, 2019. Section operative July 1, 2020, by its own provisions.)
  25. 4825.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Practice Provisions [4825 - 4831] ( Article 2 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. )

    Verify source ↗

    A person may not practice veterinary medicine in this state unless they hold a valid, unexpired, and unrevoked license under this chapter.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Practice Provisions [4825 - 4831] ( Article 2 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## 4825. It is unlawful for any person to practice veterinary medicine or any branch thereof in this State unless at the time of so doing, such person holds a valid, unexpired, and unrevoked license as provided in this chapter. (Amended by Stats. 1961, Ch. 1395.)
  26. 4825.1.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Practice Provisions [4825 - 4831] ( Article 2 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. )

    Verify source ↗

    This section defines terms used in the veterinary medicine chapter.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Practice Provisions [4825 - 4831] ( Article 2 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## 4825.1. These definitions shall govern the construction of this chapter as it applies to veterinary medicine. (a) “Client” means the individual or individuals who represent to the veterinarian that they are the owner or owners of the animal patient at the time that the services are provided. (b) “Diagnosis” means the act or process of identifying or determining the health status of an animal patient through examination and the opinion derived from that examination. (c) “Animal” means any member of the animal kingdom other than humans, and includes fowl, fish, and reptiles, wild or domestic, whether living or dead. (d) “Food animal” means any animal that is raised for the production of an edible product intended for consumption by humans. The edible product includes, but is not limited to, milk, meat, and eggs. Food animal includes, but is not limited to, cattle (beef or dairy), swine, sheep, poultry, fish, and amphibian species. (e) “Livestock” includes all animals, poultry, aquatic and amphibian species that are raised, kept, or used for profit. It does not include those species that are usually kept as pets such as dogs, cats, and pet birds, or companion animals, including equines. (f) “Synchronous” means a real-time interaction between a client and animal patient with a veterinarian who is licensed in this state and located at a distant site. (g) “Telehealth” means the mode of delivering veterinary medicine via electronic communication technologies to facilitate the diagnosis, consultation, care management, or treatment of an animal patient, and includes, but is not limited to, synchronous video and audio communication; synchronous, two-way audio communication; and electronic transmission of images, diagnostics, data, and medical information. (Amended by Stats. 2023, Ch. 475, Sec. 2. (AB 1399) Effective January 1, 2024.)
  27. 4826.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Practice Provisions [4825 - 4831] ( Article 2 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. )

    Verify source ↗

    This section says when a person is considered to be practicing veterinary medicine, surgery, or dentistry, and it bars anyone other than a licensed veterinarian from inducing anesthesia unless the board authorizes it by regulation.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Practice Provisions [4825 - 4831] ( Article 2 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## 4826. A person practices veterinary medicine, surgery, and dentistry, and the various branches thereof, when the person does any one of the following: (a) Represents oneself as engaged in the practice of veterinary medicine, veterinary surgery, or veterinary dentistry in any of its branches. (b) Diagnoses or prescribes a drug, medicine, appliance, application, or treatment of whatever nature for the prevention, cure, or relief of a wound, fracture, bodily injury, or disease of animals. (c) Administers a drug, medicine, appliance, application, or treatment of whatever nature for the prevention, cure, or relief of a wound, fracture, bodily injury, or disease of animals, except where the medicine, appliance, application, or treatment is administered by a registered veterinary technician or a veterinary assistant at the direction of and under the direct supervision of a licensed veterinarian subject to Article 2.5 (commencing with Section 4836) or where the drug, including, but not limited to, a drug that is a controlled substance, is administered by a registered veterinary technician or a veterinary assistant pursuant to Section 4836.1. However, no person, other than a licensed veterinarian, may induce anesthesia unless authorized by regulation of the board. (d) Performs a surgical or dental operation upon an animal. (e) Performs a tendonectomy, onychectomy, or any type of claw removal on a feline. (f) Performs any manual procedure for the diagnosis of pregnancy, sterility, or infertility upon livestock or Equidae. (g) Collects blood from an animal for the purpose of transferring or selling that blood and blood component products to a licensed veterinarian at a registered premises, except where the blood is collected by a registered veterinary technician or veterinary assistant at the direction of, and under the direct supervision of, a licensed veterinarian subject to Article 2.5 (commencing with Section 4836) or where the blood is collected by a registered veterinary technician or a veterinary assistant pursuant to Section 4836.5. For purposes of this section, “blood and blood component products” has the same meaning as defined in Section 4920. (h) Uses any words, letters, or titles in such connection or under such circumstances as to induce the belief that the person using them is engaged in the practice of veterinary medicine, veterinary surgery, or veterinary dentistry. This use shall be prima facie evidence of the intention to represent oneself as engaged in the practice of veterinary medicine, veterinary surgery, or veterinary dentistry. (Amended by Stats. 2025, Ch. 479, Sec. 1. (AB 867) Effective January 1, 2026.)
  28. 4826.1.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Practice Provisions [4825 - 4831] ( Article 2 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. )

    Verify source ↗

    A veterinarian giving emergency treatment to a sick or injured animal at the scene of an accident is not liable for damages to the owner unless there is gross negligence.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Practice Provisions [4825 - 4831] ( Article 2 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## 4826.1. A veterinarian who on his or her own initiative, at the request of an owner, or at the request of someone other than the owner, renders emergency treatment to a sick or injured animal at the scene of an accident shall not be liable in damages to the owner of that animal in the absence of gross negligence. (Amended by Stats. 1998, Ch. 879, Sec. 3.5. Effective January 1, 1999.)
  29. 4826.2.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Practice Provisions [4825 - 4831] ( Article 2 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. )

    Verify source ↗

    Veterinarians, registered veterinary technicians, and supervised veterinary assistants may provide care for certain restricted animals, and may keep them only as long as their judgment says treatment is necessary.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Practice Provisions [4825 - 4831] ( Article 2 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## 4826.2. Notwithstanding any other provision of law, a veterinarian, registered veterinary technician, or a veterinary assistant working under the supervision of a veterinarian, may provide veterinary care and treatment for any animal restricted pursuant to Section 2118 of the Fish and Game Code. A veterinarian, registered veterinary technician, or a veterinary assistant working under the supervision of a veterinarian, may lawfully possess one or more of the animals only for the period of time that, in his or her judgment, veterinary care and treatment are necessary. No veterinarian, registered veterinary technician, or veterinary assistant working under the supervision of a veterinarian, has a duty to advise law enforcement if he or she becomes aware that one or more of the animals is possessed in the state. For the purposes of this section, “veterinary care and treatment” does not include boarding when no veterinary care or treatment is required. (Amended by Stats. 2012, Ch. 239, Sec. 2. (AB 1839) Effective January 1, 2013.)
  30. 4826.3.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Practice Provisions [4825 - 4831] ( Article 2 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. )

    Verify source ↗

    Veterinary technicians, veterinary assistants, and registered veterinary assistant controlled substances permitholders must wear an 18-point name tag in public areas of veterinary premises.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Practice Provisions [4825 - 4831] ( Article 2 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## 4826.3. (a) Notwithstanding any law, a veterinary technician, veterinary assistant, and veterinary assistant controlled substances permitholder registered in this state shall wear a name tag identification in at least 18 point type in any area of the veterinary premises that is accessible to members of the public. The name tag shall include the veterinary technician, veterinary assistant, and veterinary assistant controlled substances permitholder’s name, and, if applicable, the license, registration, or permit type and number issued by the board. (b) A person subject to the requirement in subdivision (a) may remove the name tag when working with or handling animal patients. (c) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2023. (Added by Stats. 2021, Ch. 631, Sec. 3. (AB 1535) Effective January 1, 2022. Operative January 1, 2023, by its own provisions.)
  31. 4826.4.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Practice Provisions [4825 - 4831] ( Article 2 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. )

    Verify source ↗

    A California-licensed veterinarian near a declared emergency may provide urgent animal care and dispense or prescribe certain drugs or devices in good faith, but must make a reasonable effort to contact the original prescriber before refilling and must keep a record.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Practice Provisions [4825 - 4831] ( Article 2 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## 4826.4. (a) A California-licensed veterinarian at premises registered in accordance with Section 4853 that is located within a 25-mile radius of any condition of emergency specified in Section 8558 of the Government Code may, in good faith, do both of the following in addition to any other acts authorized by law: (1) Render necessary and prompt care and treatment to an animal patient without establishing a veterinarian-client-patient relationship if conditions are such that one cannot be established in a timely manner. (2) Dispense or prescribe a dangerous drug or device, as defined in Section 4022, in reasonable quantities where failure to provide services or medications, including controlled substances, may result in loss of life or intense suffering of the animal patient. Prior to refilling a prescription pursuant to this paragraph, the veterinarian shall make a reasonable effort to contact the originally prescribing veterinarian. (b) A veterinarian acting under this section shall make an appropriate record that includes the basis for proceeding under this section. (c) A veterinarian who performs services pursuant to this section shall have immunity from liability pursuant to subdivision (b) of Section 8659 of the Government Code. (Added by Stats. 2018, Ch. 571, Sec. 25. (SB 1480) Effective January 1, 2019.)
  32. 4826.5.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Practice Provisions [4825 - 4831] ( Article 2 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. )

    Verify source ↗

    Certain veterinary professionals may compound drugs for animal use if they follow federal regulations, board regulations, and required supervision.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Practice Provisions [4825 - 4831] ( Article 2 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## 4826.5. Notwithstanding any other law, a licensed veterinarian, registered veterinary technician, or veterinary assistant controlled substance permitholder under the supervision of a licensed veterinarian may compound drugs for animal use pursuant to Section 530 of Title 21 of the Code of Federal Regulations and in accordance with regulations promulgated by the board. The regulations promulgated by the board shall, at a minimum, address the storage of drugs, the level and type of supervision required for compounding drugs by a registered veterinary technician or a veterinary assistant controlled substance permitholder, and the equipment necessary for the safe compounding of drugs. Any violation of the regulations adopted by the board pursuant to this section shall constitute grounds for an enforcement or disciplinary action. (Amended by Stats. 2025, Ch. 195, Sec. 5. (AB 1502) Effective January 1, 2026.)
  33. 4826.6.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Practice Provisions [4825 - 4831] ( Article 2 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. )

    Verify source ↗

    This section limits when a veterinarian may prescribe or provide drugs and telehealth care for animals, and it requires client notice, consent, privacy compliance, and certain recordkeeping for telehealth.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Practice Provisions [4825 - 4831] ( Article 2 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## 4826.6. (a) A veterinarian shall not prescribe, dispense, or administer a drug, medicine, application, or treatment of whatever nature for the prevention, cure, or relief of a wound, fracture, bodily injury, or disease of animals unless a veterinarian-client-patient relationship exists or as otherwise permitted by law, except when the animal patient is a wild animal or the owner of the animal patient is unknown. A veterinarian-client-patient relationship exists if all of the following conditions are met: (1) The client has authorized the veterinarian to assume responsibility for medical judgments regarding the health of the animal patient. (2) The veterinarian possesses sufficient knowledge of the animal patient to initiate at least a general or preliminary diagnosis of the animal patient’s medical condition. (3) The veterinarian has assumed responsibility for making medical judgments regarding the health of the animal patient and has communicated with the client a medical, treatment, diagnostic, or therapeutic plan appropriate to the circumstances. (b) A veterinarian possesses sufficient knowledge of the animal patient for purposes of paragraph (2) of subdivision (a) if the veterinarian has recently seen, or is personally acquainted with, the care of the animal patient by doing any of the following: (1) Examining the animal patient in person. (2) Examining the animal patient by use of synchronous audio-video communication. (3) Making medically appropriate and timely visits to the premises on which the animal patient is kept. (c) For purposes of paragraphs (1) and (3) of subdivision (a), the client may authorize an agent to act on the client’s behalf. (d) Synchronous audio-video communication is not required for the delivery of veterinary medicine via telehealth after a veterinarian-client-patient relationship has been established unless the veterinarian determines that it is necessary in order to provide care consistent with prevailing veterinary medical practice. (e) A veterinarian-client-patient relationship shall not be established solely by audio-only communication or by means of a questionnaire. (f) Only a person who holds a current license to practice veterinary medicine in this state is authorized to practice veterinary medicine via telehealth on an animal patient located in this state. (g) Before delivering veterinary medicine via telehealth, the veterinarian shall inform the client about the use and potential limitations of telehealth and obtain consent from the client to use telehealth, including acknowledgment of all of the following: (1) The same standards of care apply to veterinary medicine services via telehealth and in-person veterinary medical services. (2) The client has the option to choose an in-person visit from a veterinarian at any time. (3) The client has been advised how to receive followup care or assistance in the event of an adverse reaction to the treatment or in the event of an inability to communicate resulting from technological or equipment failure. (h) A veterinarian who practices veterinary medicine via telehealth shall do all of the following: (1) Ensure that the technology, method, and equipment used to provide veterinary medicine services via telehealth comply with all current privacy protection laws. (2) Have historical knowledge of the animal patient by obtaining and reviewing the animal patient’s relevant medical history, and, if available, medical records. If medical records exist from a previous in-person visit and are available to the client, the client may transmit those records, including any diagnostic data contained therein, to the veterinarian electronically. (3) Employ sound professional judgment to determine whether using telehealth is an appropriate method for delivering medical advice or treatment to the animal patient and providing quality of care consistent with prevailing veterinary medical practice. (4) Be familiar with available medical resources, including emergency resources near the animal patient’s location, be able to provide the client with a list of nearby veterinarians who may be able to see the animal patient in person upon the request of the client, and keep, maintain, and make available a copy or summary of the animal patient record, as specified in Section 4855. (5) Provide the client with the veterinarian’s name, contact information, and license number. (6) Secure an alternative means of contacting the client if the electronic means is interrupted. (i) (1) A veterinarian shall not prescribe a drug for a duration of time that is inconsistent with the medical condition of the animal patient or the type of drug prescribed. (2) A veterinarian who established the required veterinarian-client-patient relationship by examining the animal patient in person or by making medically appropriate and timely visits to the premises on which the animal patient is kept shall not prescribe a drug for a duration of time that is longer than one year from the date that the veterinarian examined the animal patient in person or visited the premises and prescribed the drug. (3) Except as provided in paragraphs (4) to (8), inclusive, a veterinarian who practices veterinary medicine via telehealth may order, prescribe, or make available drugs, as defined in Section 11014 of the Health and Safety Code, in accordance with all relevant state and federal regulations. (4) A veterinarian who established the required veterinarian-client-patient relationship using synchronous audio-video communication shall not prescribe a drug to the animal patient for use for a period longer than six months from the date upon which the veterinarian examined the animal patient or prescribed the drug. The veterinarian shall not issue another prescription to the animal patient for the same drug unless they have conducted another examination of the animal patient, either in person or using telehealth. (5) A veterinarian who established the required veterinarian-client-patient relationship using synchronous audio-video communication shall not prescribe an antimicrobial drug to the animal patient for a period longer than 14 days of treatment. The veterinarian shall not issue any further antimicrobial drug prescription, including a refill, to treat the condition of the animal patient unless the veterinarian has conducted an in-person examination of the animal patient. (6) The veterinarian shall not order, prescribe, or make available a controlled substance, as defined in Section 4021, or xylazine, unless the veterinarian has performed an in-person physical examination of the animal patient or made medically appropriate and timely visits to the premises where the animal patient is kept. (7) The veterinarian shall notify the client that some prescription drugs or medications may be available at a pharmacy and, if requested, the veterinarian shall submit a prescription to a pharmacy that the client chooses. (8) A veterinarian shall not prescribe via telehealth any drug or medication for use on a horse engaged in racing or training at a facility under the jurisdiction of the California Horse Racing Board pursuant to Chapter 4 (commencing with Section 19400) of Division 8. (j) As used in this section, “drug” means any controlled substance, as defined in Section 4021, or any dangerous drug, as defined in Section 4022. (k) A veterinarian is permitted to use telehealth without establishing a veterinarian-client-patient relationship in order to provide advice in an emergency, as defined in Section 4840.5. (Amended by Stats. 2025, Ch. 195, Sec. 6. (AB 1502) Effective January 1, 2026.)
  34. 4826.7.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Practice Provisions [4825 - 4831] ( Article 2 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. )

    Verify source ↗

    A veterinarian may let a registered veterinary technician act as the veterinarian’s agent to help establish the veterinarian-client-patient relationship and give certain preventive vaccines or medications, if the listed conditions are met.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Practice Provisions [4825 - 4831] ( Article 2 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## 4826.7. (a) For purposes of this section, the following definitions apply: (1) “Private animal shelter” means a not-for-profit organization that has tax-exempt status under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, whose purpose and practice is, in whole or significant part, the care of animals and placement of animals into permanent homes through adoption. (2) “Veterinarian” means a California licensed veterinarian. (b) A veterinarian may authorize a registered veterinary technician to act as an agent of the veterinarian for the purpose of establishing the veterinarian-client-patient relationship to administer preventive or prophylactic vaccines or medications for the control or eradication of apparent or anticipated internal or external parasites if all of the following conditions are met: (1) Except as provided in paragraph (2), the registered veterinary technician administers preventive or prophylactic vaccines or medications for the control or eradication of apparent or anticipated internal or external parasites in a registered veterinary premises when the veterinarian is physically present at the registered veterinary premises. (2) If working at a location other than a registered veterinary premises, or in a registered veterinary premises that is a public animal control agency or shelter, private animal shelter, humane society shelter, or society for the prevention of cruelty to animals shelter, the registered veterinary technician administers preventive or prophylactic vaccines or medications for the control or eradication of apparent or anticipated internal or external parasites when the veterinarian is in the general vicinity or available by telephone and is quickly and easily available. At this location, the registered veterinary technician shall have equipment and drugs necessary to provide immediate emergency care at a level commensurate with the provision of preventive or prophylactic vaccines or medications for the control or eradication of apparent or anticipated internal or external parasites. (3) The registered veterinary technician examines the animal patient and administers preventive or prophylactic vaccines or medications for the control or eradication of apparent or anticipated internal or external parasites in accordance with written protocols and procedures established by the veterinarian, which shall include, at a minimum, all of the following: (A) Obtaining the animal patient’s history from the client in order to reasonably ensure that the administration of preventive or prophylactic vaccines or medications for the control or eradication of apparent or anticipated internal or external parasites is appropriate. (B) Data that must be collected by physical examination of the animal patient in order to reasonably ensure that the administration of preventive or prophylactic vaccines or medications for the control or eradication of apparent or anticipated internal or external parasites is appropriate. (C) Information in the patient history or physical examination results that would preclude the administration of preventive or prophylactic vaccines or medications for the control or eradication of apparent or anticipated internal or external parasites. (D) Criteria that would disqualify the animal patient from receiving the preventive or prophylactic vaccines or medications for the control or eradication of apparent or anticipated internal or external parasites. (E) Vaccination protocols for each animal species for which preventive or prophylactic vaccines are administered, that include, at a minimum, handling and administration of vaccines in accordance with manufacturer label recommendations and what to do in the event of an adverse reaction or other emergency. (F) Preventative procedures for parasite control for each animal species for which medications for the control or eradication of apparent or anticipated internal or external parasites are being administered, which shall include, at a minimum, handling and administration of medications in accordance with manufacturer label recommendations and what to do in the event of an adverse reaction or other emergency. (G) Documentation of all of the following animal patient information: (i) Name or initials of the person responsible for entries. (ii) Name, address, and phone number of the client. (iii) Name or identity of the animal, herd, or flock. (iv) Except for herds or flocks, age, sex, breed, species, and color of the animal. (v) Beginning and ending dates of custody of the animal, if applicable. (vi) A history or pertinent information as it pertains to each animal’s, herd’s, or flock’s medical status. (vii) Data, including that obtained by instrumentation, from the physical examination. (viii) Treatment and intended treatment plan, including medications, dosages, route of administration, and frequency of use. (ix) Diagnosis or assessment before performing a treatment or procedure. (x) If relevant, a prognosis of the animal’s condition. (xi) All medications and treatments prescribed and dispensed, including strength, dosage, route of administration, quantity, and frequency of use. (4) The veterinarian and the registered veterinary technician sign and date a statement containing an assumption of risk by the veterinarian for all acts of the registered veterinary technician related to examining the animal patient and administering preventive or prophylactic vaccines or medications for the control or eradication of apparent or anticipated internal or external parasites, short of willful acts of animal cruelty, gross negligence, or gross unprofessional conduct on behalf of the registered veterinary technician. (5) The veterinarian and the registered veterinary technician sign and date a statement containing authorization for the registered veterinary technician to act as the agent of the veterinarian only to establish the veterinarian-client-patient relationship for purposes of administering preventive or prophylactic vaccines or medications for the control or eradication of apparent or anticipated internal or external parasites when acting in compliance with the protocols and procedures specified in paragraph (3), and only until the date the veterinarian terminates authorization for the registered veterinary technician to act as the agent of the veterinarian. (6) (A) Before the registered veterinary technician examines or administers any preventive or prophylactic vaccines or medications for the control or eradication of apparent or anticipated internal or external parasites to the animal patient, the registered veterinary technician informs the client verbally or in writing that the registered veterinary technician is acting as an agent of the veterinarian for purposes of administering to the animal patient preventive or prophylactic vaccines or medications, as applicable, and provides the veterinarian’s name and license number to the client. (B) After providing the disclosure specified in subparagraph (A), the registered veterinary technician records in the animal patient’s medical record the verbal or written authorization of the client to proceed with the registered veterinary technician’s examination of the animal patient and administration of the specified vaccine or medication. (c) (1) Documentation relating to satisfaction of the requirements of paragraphs (4) and (5) of subdivision (b) shall be retained by the veterinarian for the duration of the registered veterinary technician’s work as an agent of that veterinarian and until three years from the date of the termination of the veterinarian’s relationship with the registered veterinary technician. (2) Documentation relating to satisfaction of subparagraph (G) of paragraph (3) of subdivision (b) shall be retained by the veterinarian for a minimum of three years after the animal patient’s last visit. (Amended by Stats. 2025, Ch. 589, Sec. 1. (SB 602) Effective January 1, 2026.)
  35. 4826.8.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Practice Provisions [4825 - 4831] ( Article 2 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. )

    Verify source ↗

    Feline claw-removal and similar procedures must be done only for a therapeutic purpose; veterinarians may still trim nails or use nonsurgical scratching-mitigation methods.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Practice Provisions [4825 - 4831] ( Article 2 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## 4826.8. (a) An onychectomy, tendonectomy, surgical claw removal, or declaw on any feline or any procedure to otherwise alter a feline’s toes, claws, or paws to prevent or impair the normal function of the feline’s toes, claws, or paws shall be performed solely for a therapeutic purpose. (b) For purposes of this section, “therapeutic purpose” means a medically necessary procedure to address an existing or recurring infection, disease, injury, or abnormal condition in the claws, nail bed, or toe bone, which jeopardizes the feline’s health. “Therapeutic purpose” does not include a procedure performed for a cosmetic or aesthetic purpose or to make the feline more convenient to keep or handle. (c) This section shall not prohibit a veterinarian from nail trimming or applying nonsurgical scratching mitigation solutions, such as the application of a device to the tip of a claw. (Added by Stats. 2025, Ch. 479, Sec. 2. (AB 867) Effective January 1, 2026.)
  36. 4827.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Practice Provisions [4825 - 4831] ( Article 2 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. )

    Verify source ↗

    This section exempts several animal-related activities from the chapter’s veterinary medicine prohibition, and it requires certain unregistered shelters to report serious adverse events to the board.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Practice Provisions [4825 - 4831] ( Article 2 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## 4827. (a) Nothing in this chapter prohibits any person from: (1) Practicing veterinary medicine as a bona fide owner of one’s own animals, except for the procedures specified in Section 4826.8. This exemption applies to the following: (A) The owner’s bona fide employees. (B) Any person assisting the owner, provided that the practice is performed gratuitously. (2) Lay testing of poultry by the whole blood agglutination test. For purposes of this section, “poultry” means flocks of avian species maintained for food production, including, but not limited to, chickens, turkeys, and exotic fowl. (3) Making any determination as to the status of pregnancy, sterility, or infertility upon livestock, equine, or food animals at the time an animal is being inseminated, providing no charge is made for this determination. (4) Administering sodium pentobarbital for euthanasia of sick, injured, homeless, or surrendered domestic pets or animals without the presence of a veterinarian when the person is administering the treatment in their capacity as an employee of an animal control shelter and its agencies or humane society and has received proper training in the administration of sodium pentobarbital for these purposes. (5) Providing the following care to animals lawfully deposited with or impounded by a shelter not registered with the board pursuant to Section 4853: (A) Administering preventative or prophylactic nonprescription vaccinations to the animal pursuant to protocols written by a veterinarian licensed in this state for the purposes of preventing the spread of communicable diseases, without the presence of a veterinarian when the person has received proper training in the administration of the nonprescription preventative or prophylactic vaccinations. (B) Administering nonprescription medications to the animal pursuant to protocols written by a veterinarian licensed in this state, for the control or eradication of apparent or anticipated internal or external parasites, including, but not limited to, fleas, ticks, or worms, without the presence of a veterinarian when the person has received proper training in the administration of the nonprescription medications for the control or eradication of those internal or external parasites. A person’s decision to administer these medications shall not be construed to mean the person has made a diagnosis of the animal’s medical condition. (C) Administering medications prescribed by a veterinarian licensed in the state to the animal without the presence of a veterinarian when the shelter has received a written treatment plan from the licensed veterinarian for that specific animal and has a dispensing protocol in place for the tracking of dispensed prescribed medications and when the person has received proper training in the administration of prescription medications. (b) For the purposes of paragraph (5) of subdivision (a): (1) “Proper training” means completing a training curriculum of at least four hours provided by a veterinarian licensed to practice in this state, and includes, but is not limited to, an overview of intake procedures and preventative medicine, recognizing when an animal is required to be seen by a veterinarian, prescription and nonprescription medications, humane animal restraint techniques, vaccination injection methods and procedures, and documentation. (2) “Shelter” means a public animal control agency or shelter, society for the prevention of cruelty to animals shelter, or humane society shelter that is not registered with the board pursuant to Section 4853. (c) A shelter providing care to an animal pursuant to this section that is not registered with the board pursuant to Section 4853 shall report to the board any adverse event resulting in significant impairment or death from the care provided, on a form prescribed by the board, including severe injuries, infections, and unintended reactions caused by the incorrect or inappropriate administration of a vaccine or medications. (Amended by Stats. 2025, Ch. 479, Sec. 3.5. (AB 867) Effective January 1, 2026.)
  37. 4828.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Practice Provisions [4825 - 4831] ( Article 2 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. )

    Verify source ↗

    Veterinarians employed by the state or a county, city, corporation, firm, or individual must secure a license issued by the board.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Practice Provisions [4825 - 4831] ( Article 2 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## 4828. All veterinarians actually engaged and employed as veterinarians by the state, or a county, city, corporation, firm or individual are practicing veterinary medicine and shall secure a license issued by the board. (Amended by Stats. 1995, Ch. 60, Sec. 14. Effective July 6, 1995.)
  38. 4829.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Practice Provisions [4825 - 4831] ( Article 2 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. )

    Verify source ↗

    A veterinary medicine license issued under a prior act stays valid until the renewal fee is due, and after that only if the holder follows the chapter’s renewal rules; it may also be suspended or revoked under Article 4.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Practice Provisions [4825 - 4831] ( Article 2 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## 4829. Any license granted to any person to practice veterinary medicine, or any branch thereof, in this State issued under any preceding act relating to veterinary medicine shall remain in force until the renewal fee becomes due and thereafter so long as the holder complies with the provisions of this chapter relating to the renewal of the license and not otherwise. Notwithstanding the payment of this fee his license at any time may be suspended or revoked as provided in Article 4 of this chapter. (Amended by Stats. 1961, Ch. 1395.)
  39. 4829.5.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Practice Provisions [4825 - 4831] ( Article 2 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. )

    Verify source ↗

    A veterinarian must offer a consultation when first prescribing, dispensing, or furnishing a dangerous drug to an animal patient in an outpatient setting.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Practice Provisions [4825 - 4831] ( Article 2 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## 4829.5. (a) Each time a veterinarian initially prescribes, dispenses, or furnishes a dangerous drug, as defined in Section 4022, to an animal patient in an outpatient setting, the veterinarian shall offer to provide, verbally, in writing, or by email to the client, a consultation that includes the following information: (1) The name and description of the dangerous drug. (2) Route of administration, dosage form, dosage, duration of drug therapy, the duration of the effects of the drug, and the common severe adverse effects associated with the use of a short-acting or long-acting drug. (3) Any special directions for proper use and storage. (4) Actions to be taken in the event of a missed dose. (5) If available, precautions and relevant warnings provided by the drug’s manufacturer, including common severe adverse effects of the drug. (b) If requested, a veterinarian shall provide drug documentation, if available. (c) A veterinarian may delegate to a registered veterinary technician or veterinary assistant the task of providing the consultation and drug documentation required by this section. (d) It shall be noted in the medical record of the animal patient if the consultation described in this section is provided or declined by the client. (Amended by Stats. 2023, Ch. 475, Sec. 4. (AB 1399) Effective January 1, 2024.)
  40. 4830.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Practice Provisions [4825 - 4831] ( Article 2 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. )

    Verify source ↗

    This section exempts several veterinarians, students, and government personnel from Chapter 11 rules, and it limits what an out-of-state veterinarian may do when assisting in California.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Practice Provisions [4825 - 4831] ( Article 2 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## 4830. (a) This chapter does not apply to: (1) Veterinarians while serving in any armed branch of the military service of the United States or the United States Department of Agriculture while actually engaged and employed in their official capacity. (2) Veterinarians holding a current, valid license in good standing in another state or country who provide assistance to a California-licensed veterinarian and attend on a specific case. The California-licensed veterinarian shall maintain a valid veterinarian-client-patient relationship. The veterinarian providing the assistance shall not establish a veterinarian-client-patient relationship with the client by attending the case or at a future time and shall not practice veterinary medicine, open an office, appoint a place to meet patients, communicate with clients who reside within the limits of this state, give orders, or have ultimate authority over the care or primary diagnosis of a patient that is located within this state. (3) Veterinarians called into the state by a law enforcement agency or animal control agency pursuant to subdivision (b). (4) A student of a veterinary medical program accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association Council on Education who participates as part of the student’s formal curriculum in the diagnosis and treatment with direct supervision by a California-licensed veterinarian, or in surgery with immediate supervision by a California-licensed veterinarian, provided all of the following requirements are met: (A) The clinical training site has been approved by the university where the student is enrolled. (B) The student has prior training in diagnosis, treatment, and surgery as part of the formal curriculum. (5) A veterinarian who is employed by the Meat and Poultry Inspection Branch of the California Department of Food and Agriculture while actually engaged and employed in the veterinarian’s official capacity. A person exempt under this paragraph shall not otherwise engage in the practice of veterinary medicine unless the person is issued a license by the board. (6) Unlicensed personnel employed by the Department of Food and Agriculture or the United States Department of Agriculture when in the course of their duties they are directed by a veterinarian supervisor to conduct an examination, obtain biological specimens, apply biological tests, or administer medications or biological products as part of government disease or condition monitoring, investigation, control, or eradication activities. (b) (1) For purposes of paragraph (3) of subdivision (a), a regularly licensed veterinarian in good standing who is called from another state by a law enforcement agency or animal control agency, as defined in Section 31606 of the Food and Agricultural Code, to attend to cases that are a part of an investigation of an alleged violation of federal or state animal fighting or animal cruelty laws within a single geographic location shall be exempt from the licensing requirements of this chapter if the law enforcement agency or animal control agency determines that it is necessary to call the veterinarian in order for the agency or officer to conduct the investigation in a timely, efficient, and effective manner. In determining whether it is necessary to call a veterinarian from another state, consideration shall be given to the availability of veterinarians in this state to attend to these cases. An agency, department, or officer that calls a veterinarian pursuant to this subdivision shall notify the board of the investigation. (2) Notwithstanding any other provision of this chapter, a regularly licensed veterinarian in good standing who is called from another state to attend to cases that are a part of an investigation described in paragraph (1) may provide veterinary medical care for animals that are affected by the investigation with a temporary shelter facility, and the temporary shelter facility shall be exempt from the registration requirement of Section 4853 if all of the following conditions are met: (A) The temporary shelter facility is established only for the purpose of the investigation. (B) The temporary shelter facility provides veterinary medical care, shelter, food, and water only to animals that are affected by the investigation. (C) The temporary shelter facility complies with Section 4854. (D) The temporary shelter facility exists for not more than 60 days, unless the law enforcement agency or animal control agency determines that a longer period of time is necessary to complete the investigation. (E) Within 30 calendar days upon completion of the provision of veterinary health care services at a temporary shelter facility established pursuant to this section, the veterinarian called from another state by a law enforcement agency or animal control agency to attend to a case shall file a report with the board. The report shall contain the date, place, type, and general description of the care provided, along with a listing of the veterinary health care practitioners who participated in providing that care. (c) For purposes of paragraph (3) of subdivision (a), the board may inspect temporary facilities established pursuant to this section. (Amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 631, Sec. 5. (AB 1535) Effective January 1, 2022.)
  41. 4830.5.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Practice Provisions [4825 - 4831] ( Article 2 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. )

    Verify source ↗

    A veterinary licensee who has reasonable cause to believe a dog was injured or killed in a staged animal fight must promptly report it to the appropriate local law enforcement authorities.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Practice Provisions [4825 - 4831] ( Article 2 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## 4830.5. (a) If a licensee under this chapter has reasonable cause to believe that a dog has been injured or killed through participation in a staged animal fight, as prescribed in Section 597b of the Penal Code, it is the duty of the licensee to promptly report that fact to the appropriate law enforcement authorities of the county, city, or city and county in which the fight occurred. (b) A licensee shall not incur any civil liability as a result of making any report pursuant to this section or as a result of making any report of a violation of Section 596, subdivision (a) or (b) of Section 597, or Section 597b, former Section 597f, Section 597g, 597n, 597.1, or 597.5 of the Penal Code. (Amended by Stats. 2019, Ch. 256, Sec. 1. (SB 781) Effective January 1, 2020.)
  42. 4830.7.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Practice Provisions [4825 - 4831] ( Article 2 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. )

    Verify source ↗

    Veterinary licensees must promptly report suspected animal abuse or cruelty involving an animal under their care to the proper local law enforcement authorities.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Practice Provisions [4825 - 4831] ( Article 2 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## 4830.7. Whenever any licensee under this chapter has reasonable cause to believe an animal under its care has been a victim of animal abuse or cruelty, as prescribed in Section 597 of the Penal Code, it shall be the duty of the licensee to promptly report it to the appropriate law enforcement authorities of the county, city, or city and county in which it occurred. No licensee shall incur any civil liability as a result of making any report pursuant to this section or as a result of making any report of a violation of subdivisions (a), (b), and (c) of Section 597 of the Penal Code. (Added by Stats. 2004, Ch. 467, Sec. 4. Effective January 1, 2005.)
  43. 4830.8.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Practice Provisions [4825 - 4831] ( Article 2 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. )

    Verify source ↗

    Veterinarians at rodeo events must report certain animal injuries to the board, and other veterinarians must report treated injuries they know happened at a rodeo.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Practice Provisions [4825 - 4831] ( Article 2 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## 4830.8. (a) An attending or on-call veterinarian at a rodeo event shall, pursuant to Section 596.7 of the Penal Code, report to the board any animal injury at the event requiring veterinary treatment within 48 hours of the conclusion of the rodeo. (b) A veterinarian, other than a veterinarian identified in subdivision (a), shall report to the board within seven days of rendering treatment to an animal for an injury that the veterinarian knows occurred at a rodeo event. (c) A report submitted pursuant to this section shall include the title, location, and date of the rodeo event, the name of the attending veterinarian at the event, the name of the reporting veterinarian, the type of animal, and a brief description of the injury suffered by the animal. The board shall post a form on its Internet Web site to be used by veterinarians for purposes of submitting this report. (d) For purposes of this section, “rodeo” has the same meaning set forth in Section 596.7 of the Penal Code. (Added by Stats. 2010, Ch. 538, Sec. 10. (AB 1980) Effective January 1, 2011.)
  44. 4831.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Practice Provisions [4825 - 4831] ( Article 2 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. )

    Verify source ↗

    A person who violates or helps violate this chapter is guilty of a misdemeanor and may be fined, jailed in county jail, or both.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Practice Provisions [4825 - 4831] ( Article 2 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## 4831. Any person, who violates or aids or abets in violating any of the provisions of this chapter, is guilty of a misdemeanor and upon conviction thereof shall be punished by a fine of not less than five hundred dollars ($500), nor more than two thousand dollars ($2,000), or by imprisonment in a county jail for not less than 30 days nor more than one year, or by both the fine and imprisonment. (Amended by Stats. 1997, Ch. 642, Sec. 6. Effective January 1, 1998.)
  45. 4836.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2.5. Registered Veterinary Technicians [4836 - 4845] ( Heading of Article 2.5 amended by Stats. 1995, Ch. 60, Sec. 16. )

    Verify source ↗

    The board must adopt regulations on animal health care tasks and supervision levels for veterinary technicians, veterinarians, and some veterinary assistant tasks.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2.5. Registered Veterinary Technicians [4836 - 4845] ( Heading of Article 2.5 amended by Stats. 1995, Ch. 60, Sec. 16. ) ## 4836. (a) The board shall adopt regulations establishing animal health care tasks and an appropriate degree of supervision required for those tasks that may be performed only by a registered veterinary technician or a licensed veterinarian. (b) The board also may adopt regulations establishing animal health care tasks that may be performed by a veterinary assistant as well as by a registered veterinary technician or a licensed veterinarian. The board shall establish an appropriate degree of supervision by a registered veterinary technician or a licensed veterinarian over a veterinary assistant for any tasks established under this subdivision and the degree of supervision for any of those tasks shall be higher than, or equal to, the degree of supervision required when a registered veterinary technician performs the task. (c) The board may adopt regulations, as needed, to define subdivision (c) of Section 4840, including, but not limited to, procedures for citations and fines, in accordance with Section 125.9. (Amended by Stats. 2012, Ch. 239, Sec. 4. (AB 1839) Effective January 1, 2013.)
  46. 4836.1.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2.5. Registered Veterinary Technicians [4836 - 4845] ( Heading of Article 2.5 amended by Stats. 1995, Ch. 60, Sec. 16. )

    Verify source ↗

    Registered veterinary technicians and veterinary assistants may administer drugs, including controlled substances, under licensed veterinarian supervision. Veterinary assistants may obtain or administer controlled substances only if designated and permitted. Only licensed veterinarians may induce anesthesia unless the California Veterinary Medical Board authorizes otherwise.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2.5. Registered Veterinary Technicians [4836 - 4845] ( Heading of Article 2.5 amended by Stats. 1995, Ch. 60, Sec. 16. ) ## 4836.1. (a) Notwithstanding any other law, a registered veterinary technician or a veterinary assistant may administer a drug, including, but not limited to, a drug that is a controlled substance, under the direct or indirect supervision of a licensed veterinarian when done pursuant to the order, control, and full professional responsibility of a licensed veterinarian. However, no person, other than a licensed veterinarian, may induce anesthesia unless authorized by regulation of the California Veterinary Medical Board. (b) A veterinary assistant may obtain or administer a controlled substance pursuant to the order, control, and full professional responsibility of a licensed veterinarian, only if they meet both of the following conditions: (1) Is designated by a licensed veterinarian to obtain or administer controlled substances. (2) Holds a valid veterinary assistant controlled substance permit issued pursuant to Section 4836.2. (c) Notwithstanding subdivision (b), if the California Veterinary Medical Board, in consultation with the California State Board of Pharmacy, identifies a dangerous drug, as defined in Section 4022, as a drug that has an established pattern of being diverted, the California Veterinary Medical Board may restrict access to that drug by veterinary assistants. (d) For purposes of this section, the following definitions apply: (1) “Controlled substance” has the same meaning as that term is defined in Section 11007 of the Health and Safety Code. (2) “Direct supervision” has the same meaning as that term is defined in subdivision (e) of Section 2034 of Title 16 of the California Code of Regulations. (3) “Drug” has the same meaning as that term is defined in Section 11014 of the Health and Safety Code. (4) “Indirect supervision” has the same meaning as that term is defined in subdivision (f) of Section 2034 of Title 16 of the California Code of Regulations. (e) This section shall become operative on the date Section 4836.2 becomes operative. (Amended by Stats. 2024, Ch. 497, Sec. 60. (SB 1526) Effective January 1, 2025.)
  47. 4836.2.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2.5. Registered Veterinary Technicians [4836 - 4845] ( Heading of Article 2.5 amended by Stats. 1995, Ch. 60, Sec. 16. )

    Verify source ↗

    To get a veterinary assistant controlled substance permit in California, an individual must complete the board application, pay the required fees, submit fingerprints for a criminal history check, and disclose where the applicant has held veterinary medicine credentials.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2.5. Registered Veterinary Technicians [4836 - 4845] ( Heading of Article 2.5 amended by Stats. 1995, Ch. 60, Sec. 16. ) ## 4836.2. (a) To obtain a veterinary assistant controlled substance permit in California, an individual shall satisfy the following requirements: (1) Complete and submit an application furnished by the board. (2) Pay the applicable fees specified in Section 4905. (3) Pursuant to Section 144, submit a full set of fingerprints for the purpose of conducting a criminal history record check and undergoing a state and federal criminal offender record information search conducted through the Department of Justice, pursuant to subdivision (u) of Section 11105 of the Penal Code. The Department of Justice shall provide a state or federal response to the board pursuant to paragraph (1) of subdivision (p) of Section 11105 of the Penal Code. (b) The applicant shall disclose each state, Canadian province, or United States territory in which the applicant currently holds or has ever held a license, registration, certificate, or permit to practice veterinary medicine. License verification, including any disciplinary or enforcement history, shall be confirmed through electronic means or direct submission from each state, Canadian province, or United States territory in which the applicant has identified that the applicant holds or has ever held a license to practice veterinary medicine. (c) A veterinary assistant controlled substance permit application shall be subject to denial pursuant to Sections 480 and 4883. (Repealed and added by Stats. 2025, Ch. 195, Sec. 9. (AB 1502) Effective January 1, 2026.)
  48. 4836.4.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2.5. Registered Veterinary Technicians [4836 - 4845] ( Heading of Article 2.5 amended by Stats. 1995, Ch. 60, Sec. 16. )

    Verify source ↗

    Permit holders must notify the board of a mailing or employer address change within 30 days, and renewal applicants must disclose whether they changed address.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2.5. Registered Veterinary Technicians [4836 - 4845] ( Heading of Article 2.5 amended by Stats. 1995, Ch. 60, Sec. 16. ) ## 4836.4. (a) Every person who has been issued a veterinary assistant controlled substance permit by the board pursuant to Section 4836.2 who changes his or her mailing or employer address shall notify the board of his or her new mailing or employer address within 30 days of the change. The board shall not renew the permit of any person who fails to comply with this section unless the person pays the penalty fee prescribed in Section 4842.5. An applicant for the renewal of a permit shall specify in his or her application whether he or she has changed his or her mailing or employer address and the board may accept that statement as evidence of the fact. (b) This section shall become operative on the date Section 4836.2 becomes operative. (Added by Stats. 2013, Ch. 515, Sec. 28. (SB 304) Effective January 1, 2014. Pursuant to subd. (e), this section became operative on July 1, 2015, the operative date of Section 4836.2. Note: Section 4836.2 first became operative on July 1, 2015, in its form as amended by Stats. 2014, Ch. 395.)
  49. 4836.5.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2.5. Registered Veterinary Technicians [4836 - 4845] ( Heading of Article 2.5 amended by Stats. 1995, Ch. 60, Sec. 16. )

    Verify source ↗

    Registered veterinary technicians and veterinary assistants may collect blood from an animal for transfer or sale to a licensed veterinarian, if they are supervised as required by this section.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2.5. Registered Veterinary Technicians [4836 - 4845] ( Heading of Article 2.5 amended by Stats. 1995, Ch. 60, Sec. 16. ) ## 4836.5. (a) Notwithstanding any other law, a registered veterinary technician or a veterinary assistant may collect blood from an animal for the purpose of transferring or selling the blood and blood component products to a licensed veterinarian at a registered premises, under the direct or indirect supervision of a licensed veterinarian when done pursuant to the order, control, and full professional responsibility of a licensed veterinarian. (b) For purposes of this section, the following definitions apply: (1) “Blood and blood component products” has the same meaning as that term is defined in Section 4920. (2) “Direct supervision” has the same meaning as that term is defined in subdivision (e) of Section 2034 of Title 16 of the California Code of Regulations. (3) “Indirect supervision” has the same meaning as that term is defined in subdivision (f) of Section 2034 of Title 16 of the California Code of Regulations. (Added by Stats. 2021, Ch. 752, Sec. 2. (AB 1282) Effective January 1, 2022.)
  50. 4836.6.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2.5. Registered Veterinary Technicians [4836 - 4845] ( Heading of Article 2.5 amended by Stats. 1995, Ch. 60, Sec. 16. )

    Verify source ↗

    The board must take action under Article 4 against a veterinarian who lets a registered veterinary technician or veterinary assistant perform animal health care services not allowed by this article.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2.5. Registered Veterinary Technicians [4836 - 4845] ( Heading of Article 2.5 amended by Stats. 1995, Ch. 60, Sec. 16. ) ## 4836.6. The board shall take action pursuant to Article 4 (commencing with Section 4875) of this chapter against any veterinarian licensed or authorized to practice in this state who permits any registered veterinary technician or veterinary assistant to perform any animal health care services other than those allowed by this article. (Added by renumbering Section 4836.5 by Stats. 2021, Ch. 752, Sec. 3. (AB 1282) Effective January 1, 2022.)
  51. 4839.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2.5. Registered Veterinary Technicians [4836 - 4845] ( Heading of Article 2.5 amended by Stats. 1995, Ch. 60, Sec. 16. )

    Verify source ↗

    This section defines “registered veterinary technician” as a person who meets Section 4841.5 requirements and is registered by the board.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2.5. Registered Veterinary Technicians [4836 - 4845] ( Heading of Article 2.5 amended by Stats. 1995, Ch. 60, Sec. 16. ) ## 4839. For purposes of this article, “registered veterinary technician” means a person who has met the requirements set forth in Section 4841.5 and is registered by the board. (Amended by Stats. 2025, Ch. 195, Sec. 12. (AB 1502) Effective January 1, 2026.)
  52. 4839.5.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2.5. Registered Veterinary Technicians [4836 - 4845] ( Heading of Article 2.5 amended by Stats. 1995, Ch. 60, Sec. 16. )

    Verify source ↗

    A person may not use veterinary technician titles or similar symbols to imply they are authorized as a registered veterinary technician unless they meet Section 4839 requirements.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2.5. Registered Veterinary Technicians [4836 - 4845] ( Heading of Article 2.5 amended by Stats. 1995, Ch. 60, Sec. 16. ) ## 4839.5. No person shall use the title “registered veterinary technician” or “veterinary technician,” or any other words, letters, or symbols, including, but not limited to, the abbreviation “R.V.T.,” with the intent to represent that the person is authorized to act as a registered veterinary technician, unless that person meets the requirements of Section 4839. (Added by Stats. 2010, Ch. 538, Sec. 17. (AB 1980) Effective January 1, 2011.)
  53. 484.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 1.5. DENIAL, SUSPENSION AND REVOCATION OF LICENSES [475 - 499] ( Division 1.5 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Denial of Licenses [480 - 489] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. )

    Verify source ↗

    Applicants for licensure under this code do not have to provide other persons’ attestations of their good moral character to a licensing board.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 1.5. DENIAL, SUSPENSION AND REVOCATION OF LICENSES [475 - 499] ( Division 1.5 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Denial of Licenses [480 - 489] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. ) ## 484. No person applying for licensure under this code shall be required to submit to any licensing board any attestation by other persons to his good moral character. (Amended by Stats. 1974, Ch. 1321.)
  54. 4840.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2.5. Registered Veterinary Technicians [4836 - 4845] ( Heading of Article 2.5 amended by Stats. 1995, Ch. 60, Sec. 16. )

    Verify source ↗

    Registered veterinary technicians and veterinary assistants may perform certain animal health care services under veterinarian supervision, and technicians have additional permissions for dental care, DEA registration for sodium pentobarbital, and acting as an agent for certain vaccines or parasite-control purposes.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2.5. Registered Veterinary Technicians [4836 - 4845] ( Heading of Article 2.5 amended by Stats. 1995, Ch. 60, Sec. 16. ) ## 4840. (a) Registered veterinary technicians and veterinary assistants are approved to perform animal health care services not otherwise prohibited by law under the supervision of a veterinarian licensed or authorized to practice in this state. (b) (1) Registered veterinary technicians and veterinary assistants may perform animal health care services not otherwise prohibited by law on those animals housed in public or private animal shelters, humane societies, or societies for the prevention of cruelty to animals pursuant to the direct order, written order, or telephonic order of a veterinarian licensed or authorized to practice in this state. (2) An order established by a veterinarian pursuant to paragraph (1) may include any of the following information: (A) Time periods by which an animal is required to be assessed at intake and monitored while in the custody of an agency. (B) Protocols to address the treatment of common medical conditions encountered in animals. (C) Protocols for controlling infectious and zoonotic diseases and for preventing environmental contamination. (D) Protocols for controlling the acute pain of an animal. (E) Communication requirements between the registered veterinary technician and the supervising veterinarian. (F) Euthanasia criteria for medically related cases. (c) Registered veterinary technicians may perform dental care procedures, including tooth extractions, under the supervision of a veterinarian licensed or authorized to practice in this state. (d) Registered veterinary technicians may apply for registration from the federal Drug Enforcement Administration that authorizes the direct purchase of sodium pentobarbital for the performance of euthanasia as provided for in paragraph (4) of subdivision (a) of Section 4827 without the supervision or authorization of a licensed veterinarian. (e) Registered veterinary technicians may act as an agent of the supervising veterinarian in establishing the veterinarian-client-patient relationship for the purposes of administering preventive or prophylactic vaccines or medications for the control or eradication of apparent or anticipated internal or external parasites in accordance with subdivision (b) of Section 4826.7. (Amended by Stats. 2025, Ch. 371, Sec. 1. (AB 516) Effective January 1, 2026.)
  55. 4840.2.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2.5. Registered Veterinary Technicians [4836 - 4845] ( Heading of Article 2.5 amended by Stats. 1995, Ch. 60, Sec. 16. )

    Verify source ↗

    Registered veterinary technicians and veterinary assistants may not perform surgery, diagnose or prognose animal diseases, or prescribe drugs, medicine, or appliances.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2.5. Registered Veterinary Technicians [4836 - 4845] ( Heading of Article 2.5 amended by Stats. 1995, Ch. 60, Sec. 16. ) ## 4840.2. Registered veterinary technicians and veterinary assistants shall not perform the following health care services: (a) Surgery. (b) Diagnosis and prognosis of animal diseases. (c) Prescribing of drugs, medicine, and appliances. (Amended by Stats. 2012, Ch. 239, Sec. 8. (AB 1839) Effective January 1, 2013.)
  56. 4840.5.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2.5. Registered Veterinary Technicians [4836 - 4845] ( Heading of Article 2.5 amended by Stats. 1995, Ch. 60, Sec. 16. )

    Verify source ↗

    In an emergency, a registered veterinary technician may provide lifesaving aid and treatment allowed by board regulations, and if the animal is not with a licensed veterinarian, that care may continue only under a licensed veterinarian’s direction.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2.5. Registered Veterinary Technicians [4836 - 4845] ( Heading of Article 2.5 amended by Stats. 1995, Ch. 60, Sec. 16. ) ## 4840.5. Under conditions of an emergency, a registered veterinary technician may render such lifesaving aid and treatment as may be prescribed under regulations adopted by the board pursuant to Section 4836. Such emergency aid and treatment if rendered to an animal patient not in the presence of a licensed veterinarian may only be continued under the direction of a licensed veterinarian. “Emergency” for the purpose of this section, means that the animal has been placed in a life-threatening condition where immediate treatment is necessary. (Amended by Stats. 2017, Ch. 429, Sec. 11. (SB 547) Effective January 1, 2018.)
  57. 4840.6.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2.5. Registered Veterinary Technicians [4836 - 4845] ( Heading of Article 2.5 amended by Stats. 1995, Ch. 60, Sec. 16. )

    Verify source ↗

    Registered veterinary technicians who in good faith provide emergency animal health care at the scene of an emergency are protected from civil damages, unless they are grossly negligent.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2.5. Registered Veterinary Technicians [4836 - 4845] ( Heading of Article 2.5 amended by Stats. 1995, Ch. 60, Sec. 16. ) ## 4840.6. Any registered veterinary technician registered in this state who in good faith renders emergency animal health care at the scene of the emergency, or his or her employing veterinarian or agency authorized under Section 4840.9, shall not be liable for any civil damages as the result of acts or omissions by a registered veterinary technician rendering the emergency care. This section shall not grant immunity from civil damages when the registered veterinary technician is grossly negligent. (Amended by Stats. 1995, Ch. 60, Sec. 26. Effective July 6, 1995.)
  58. 4840.7.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2.5. Registered Veterinary Technicians [4836 - 4845] ( Heading of Article 2.5 amended by Stats. 1995, Ch. 60, Sec. 16. )

    Verify source ↗

    Certain trained veterinary staff may operate radiographic equipment under specified supervision, and the premises licensee must keep and produce training records.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2.5. Registered Veterinary Technicians [4836 - 4845] ( Heading of Article 2.5 amended by Stats. 1995, Ch. 60, Sec. 16. ) ## 4840.7. (a) A registered veterinary technician who has been examined by the board in the area of radiation safety and techniques may operate radiographic equipment under the indirect supervision of a licensed veterinarian. (b) (1) A veterinary assistant who has been trained in the area of radiation safety and techniques may operate radiographic equipment under the direct supervision of a registered veterinary technician or a licensed veterinarian. (2) The responsible managing licensee of a veterinary premises shall maintain records of the training described in paragraph (1). A veterinary assistant for whom records of this training do not exist shall not operate radiographic equipment. (3) The training records described in paragraph (2) shall be made available to the board upon request and at the time of any inspection of the veterinary premises. (Amended by Stats. 2012, Ch. 239, Sec. 9. (AB 1839) Effective January 1, 2013.)
  59. 4840.9.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2.5. Registered Veterinary Technicians [4836 - 4845] ( Heading of Article 2.5 amended by Stats. 1995, Ch. 60, Sec. 16. )

    Verify source ↗

    Registered veterinary technicians and veterinary assistants may be employed by licensed veterinarians or certain government agencies, and employers must know the article’s rules.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2.5. Registered Veterinary Technicians [4836 - 4845] ( Heading of Article 2.5 amended by Stats. 1995, Ch. 60, Sec. 16. ) ## 4840.9. Registered veterinary technicians and veterinary assistants may be employed by any veterinarian licensed or authorized to practice in this state or by any governmental agency which employs veterinarians. However, the employer must be fully aware of the provisions of this article as stated by regulations adopted by the board pursuant to Section 4836. (Amended by Stats. 2012, Ch. 239, Sec. 10. (AB 1839) Effective January 1, 2013.)
  60. 4841.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2.5. Registered Veterinary Technicians [4836 - 4845] ( Heading of Article 2.5 amended by Stats. 1995, Ch. 60, Sec. 16. )

    Verify source ↗

    People doing board-designated veterinary technician tasks, or holding themselves out as registered veterinary technicians in this state, must have a valid, unexpired certificate of registration.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2.5. Registered Veterinary Technicians [4836 - 4845] ( Heading of Article 2.5 amended by Stats. 1995, Ch. 60, Sec. 16. ) ## 4841. Any person performing any of the tasks designated by the board pursuant to Section 4836 and any person representing himself or herself as a registered veterinary technician in this state, shall hold a valid unexpired certificate of registration as provided in this article. (Amended by Stats. 1995, Ch. 60, Sec. 29. Effective July 6, 1995.)
  61. 4841.1.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2.5. Registered Veterinary Technicians [4836 - 4845] ( Heading of Article 2.5 amended by Stats. 1995, Ch. 60, Sec. 16. )

    Verify source ↗

    The article does not apply to certain California veterinary technology students doing registered veterinary technician tasks as part of their training, but controlled substances and drug compounding may be done only under immediate supervision.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2.5. Registered Veterinary Technicians [4836 - 4845] ( Heading of Article 2.5 amended by Stats. 1995, Ch. 60, Sec. 16. ) ## 4841.1. This article shall not apply to students in a California veterinary technology program who perform the job tasks for registered veterinary technicians as part of their educational experience, including students both on and off campus acting under the direct supervision of a California licensed veterinarian, except that those students shall only administer controlled substances and perform drug compounding under the immediate supervision of a registered veterinary technician or California licensed veterinarian. For purposes of this section, “immediate supervision” means supervision by a person who is within audible and visual range of both the animal patient and the person being supervised. (Amended by Stats. 2025, Ch. 195, Sec. 13. (AB 1502) Effective January 1, 2026.)
  62. 4841.2.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2.5. Registered Veterinary Technicians [4836 - 4845] ( Heading of Article 2.5 amended by Stats. 1995, Ch. 60, Sec. 16. )

    Verify source ↗

    A graduate of a recognized veterinary college may not do animal health care tasks that a registered veterinary technician would perform unless the graduate is licensed or registered as required.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2.5. Registered Veterinary Technicians [4836 - 4845] ( Heading of Article 2.5 amended by Stats. 1995, Ch. 60, Sec. 16. ) ## 4841.2. (a) Except as provided in subdivision (b), a graduate of a recognized veterinary college shall not perform animal health care tasks otherwise performed by a registered veterinary technician unless the graduate has obtained licensure or registration as otherwise required under this chapter. (b) If, on or before January 1, 2020, a graduate of a recognized veterinary college has performed animal health care tasks otherwise performed by a registered veterinary technician, the graduate shall discontinue performing such duties on or after January 1, 2020, unless the graduate is issued a license or registration as otherwise required under this chapter. (Added by Stats. 2018, Ch. 571, Sec. 29. (SB 1480) Effective January 1, 2019.)
  63. 4841.4.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2.5. Registered Veterinary Technicians [4836 - 4845] ( Heading of Article 2.5 amended by Stats. 1995, Ch. 60, Sec. 16. )

    Verify source ↗

    The board must use an examination to assess applicants for veterinary technician registration, and it cannot issue a registration unless competency has been shown by examination.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2.5. Registered Veterinary Technicians [4836 - 4845] ( Heading of Article 2.5 amended by Stats. 1995, Ch. 60, Sec. 16. ) ## 4841.4. (a) The board, by means of examination, shall determine the professional qualifications of all applicants who wish to register as veterinary technicians in California. A registration shall not be issued to anyone who has not demonstrated their competency by examination. (b) The examination for veterinary technicians shall consist of a national licensing examination. (c) For examination purposes, the board may make contractual arrangements on a sole source basis with organizations furnishing examination material as it may deem desirable and shall be exempt from Section 10115 of the Public Contract Code. (Amended by Stats. 2025, Ch. 195, Sec. 14. (AB 1502) Effective January 1, 2026.)
  64. 4841.5.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2.5. Registered Veterinary Technicians [4836 - 4845] ( Heading of Article 2.5 amended by Stats. 1995, Ch. 60, Sec. 16. )

    Verify source ↗

    An applicant for registered veterinary technician registration must complete the application, pay the fee, submit fingerprints for a criminal history check, provide qualifying education evidence, pass the exam, and disclose where they have held veterinary credentials.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2.5. Registered Veterinary Technicians [4836 - 4845] ( Heading of Article 2.5 amended by Stats. 1995, Ch. 60, Sec. 16. ) ## 4841.5. (a) To obtain registration as a registered veterinary technician, the applicant shall satisfy the following requirements: (1) Complete and submit an application upon a form furnished by the board. (2) Pay the applicable fees specified in Section 4905. (3) Pursuant to Section 144, submit a full set of fingerprints for the purpose of conducting a criminal history record check and undergo a state and federal criminal offender record information search conducted through the Department of Justice, pursuant to subdivision (u) of Section 11105 of the Penal Code. The Department of Justice shall provide a state or federal response to the board pursuant to paragraph (1) of subdivision (p) of Section 11105 of the Penal Code. (4) Furnish satisfactory evidence of one of the following: (A) Graduation from, at minimum, a two-year curriculum in veterinary technology, in a college or other postsecondary institution accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). In the case of a private postsecondary institution, the institution shall also be approved by the Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education (BPPE). Proof of graduation shall be confirmed through electronic means or direct submission from the college, other postsecondary institution, or American Association of Veterinary State Boards (AAVSB). (B) A combination of education and clinical practice experience, as determined by the board. All education shall be accredited by the AVMA or the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges, or approved by the BPPE. (C) Graduation from a veterinary college recognized by the board. Proof of graduation shall be confirmed through electronic means or direct submission from the veterinary college or the AAVSB. (D) Education equivalency certified by the AAVSB’s Program for the Assessment of Veterinary Education Equivalence (PAVE) for Veterinary Technicians. The certificate of education equivalence shall be confirmed through electronic means or direct submission from the American Association of Veterinary State Boards. (E) Education equivalency certified by the Educational Commission for Foreign Veterinary Graduates (ECFVG) or PAVE. The certificate of education equivalence shall be confirmed through electronic means or direct submission from ECFVG or PAVE. (5) Pass the national licensing examination for veterinary technicians. If the applicant passed the national licensing examination over five years from the date of submitting the veterinary technician registration application, the applicant shall perform one of the following: (A) Retake and pass the national licensing examination. (B) Submit proof of having practiced clinical veterinary medicine for a minimum of two years and completed a minimum of 2,500 hours of clinical practice in another state, Canadian province, or United States territory within the three years immediately preceding filing an application for licensure in this state. (C) Complete the minimum continuing education requirements of Section 4858.2 for the current and preceding year. (b) The applicant shall disclose each state, Canadian province, or United States territory in which the applicant currently holds or has ever held a license, registration, certificate, or permit to practice veterinary medicine. License verification, including any disciplinary or enforcement history, shall be confirmed through electronic means or direct submission from each state, Canadian province, or United States territory in which the applicant has identified that the applicant holds or has ever held a license to practice veterinary medicine. (c) An application for veterinary technician registration shall be subject to denial pursuant to Sections 480 and 4883. (Amended by Stats. 2025, Ch. 195, Sec. 15. (AB 1502) Effective January 1, 2026.)
  65. 4842.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2.5. Registered Veterinary Technicians [4836 - 4845] ( Heading of Article 2.5 amended by Stats. 1995, Ch. 60, Sec. 16. )

    Verify source ↗

    The board may deny a registered veterinary technician application if the applicant has committed certain specified acts.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2.5. Registered Veterinary Technicians [4836 - 4845] ( Heading of Article 2.5 amended by Stats. 1995, Ch. 60, Sec. 16. ) ## 4842. The board may deny a registered veterinary technician application if the applicant has done any of the following: (a) Committed any act that would be grounds for the suspension or revocation of registration under this chapter. (b) While unregistered, committed, or aided and abetted the commission of, any act for which a certificate of registration is required by this chapter. (c) Knowingly made any false statement in the application. (d) Been convicted of a crime substantially related to the qualifications, functions and duties of a registered veterinary technician. (e) Committed any act that resulted in a revocation by another state of the applicant’s license, registration, or other procedure by virtue of which one is licensed or allowed to practice veterinary technology in that state. (Amended by Stats. 2025, Ch. 195, Sec. 16. (AB 1502) Effective January 1, 2026.)
  66. 4842.2.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2.5. Registered Veterinary Technicians [4836 - 4845] ( Heading of Article 2.5 amended by Stats. 1995, Ch. 60, Sec. 16. )

    Verify source ↗

    The board must deposit all funds it collects under this article into the California Veterinary Medical Board Contingent Fund.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2.5. Registered Veterinary Technicians [4836 - 4845] ( Heading of Article 2.5 amended by Stats. 1995, Ch. 60, Sec. 16. ) ## 4842.2. All funds collected by the board under this article shall be deposited in the California Veterinary Medical Board Contingent Fund. (Amended by Stats. 2024, Ch. 497, Sec. 61. (SB 1526) Effective January 1, 2025.)
  67. 4842.6.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2.5. Registered Veterinary Technicians [4836 - 4845] ( Heading of Article 2.5 amended by Stats. 1995, Ch. 60, Sec. 16. )

    Verify source ↗

    Registered veterinary technicians must renew their license or registration every two years, using the board’s form, by the last day of their birthday month.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2.5. Registered Veterinary Technicians [4836 - 4845] ( Heading of Article 2.5 amended by Stats. 1995, Ch. 60, Sec. 16. ) ## 4842.6. (a) Each individual registered by the board shall biennially apply for renewal of his or her license or registration on or before the last day of the applicant’s birthday month. The application shall be made on a form provided by the board. (b) The application shall contain a statement to the effect that the applicant has not been convicted of a felony, has not been the subject of professional disciplinary action taken by any public agency in California or any other state or territory, and has not violated any of the provisions of this chapter. If the applicant is unable to make that statement, the application shall contain a statement of the conviction, professional discipline, or violation. (c) The board may, as part of the renewal process, make necessary inquiries of the applicant and conduct an investigation in order to determine if cause for disciplinary action exists. (Added by Stats. 1988, Ch. 1007, Sec. 1.)
  68. 4842.7.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2.5. Registered Veterinary Technicians [4836 - 4845] ( Heading of Article 2.5 amended by Stats. 1995, Ch. 60, Sec. 16. )

    Verify source ↗

    Registered veterinary technicians must tell the board when they change mailing address, within 30 days.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2.5. Registered Veterinary Technicians [4836 - 4845] ( Heading of Article 2.5 amended by Stats. 1995, Ch. 60, Sec. 16. ) ## 4842.7. Every person registered by the board under this article who changes their mailing address shall notify the board of their new mailing address within 30 days of the change. The board shall not renew the registration of any person who fails to comply with this section unless the person pays the penalty fee prescribed in Section 4905. An applicant for the renewal of a registration shall specify in their application whether they have changed their mailing address and the board may accept that statement as evidence of the fact. (Amended by Stats. 2022, Ch. 28, Sec. 6. (SB 1380) Effective January 1, 2023.)
  69. 4843.5.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2.5. Registered Veterinary Technicians [4836 - 4845] ( Heading of Article 2.5 amended by Stats. 1995, Ch. 60, Sec. 16. )

    Verify source ↗

    An expired certificate of registration may be renewed within five years after expiration, if the application uses the board’s form and all renewal fees are paid; late renewals over 30 days after expiration must also pay a delinquency fee.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2.5. Registered Veterinary Technicians [4836 - 4845] ( Heading of Article 2.5 amended by Stats. 1995, Ch. 60, Sec. 16. ) ## 4843.5. Except as otherwise provided in this article, an expired certificate of registration may be renewed at any time within five years after its expiration on filing of an application for renewal on a form prescribed by the board, and payment of all accrued and unpaid renewal fees. If the certificate of registration is renewed more than 30 days after its expiration, the registrant, as a condition precedent to renewal, shall also pay the delinquency fee prescribed by this article. Renewal under this section shall be effective on the date on which the application is filed, on the date all renewal fees are paid, or on the date on which the delinquency fee, if any, is paid, whichever occurs last. (Amended by Stats. 2001, Ch. 306, Sec. 4. Effective January 1, 2002.)
  70. 4844.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2.5. Registered Veterinary Technicians [4836 - 4845] ( Heading of Article 2.5 amended by Stats. 1995, Ch. 60, Sec. 16. )

    Verify source ↗

    If a registration certificate is not renewed within five years after it expires, it cannot be renewed or restored; the person may instead apply for a new certificate if the listed conditions are met.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2.5. Registered Veterinary Technicians [4836 - 4845] ( Heading of Article 2.5 amended by Stats. 1995, Ch. 60, Sec. 16. ) ## 4844. A person who fails to renew his certificate of registration within five years after its expiration may not renew it, and it shall not be restored, reissued, or reinstated thereafter, but that person may apply for and obtain a new certificate of registration if: (a) He or she is not subject to denial of registration under Section 480. (b) No fact, circumstance, or condition exists which, if the certificate of registration were issued, would justify its revocation or suspension. (c) He or she takes and passes the examination, if any, that would be required of him or her if he or she were then applying for a certificate of registration for the first time, or otherwise establishes to the satisfaction of the board that, with due regard for the public interest, he or she is qualified to be a registered veterinary technician. (d) He or she pays all of the fees that would be required of him or her if he or she were applying for the certificate of registration for the first time. The board may, by regulation, provide for the waiver or refund of all or any part of the examination fee when a certificate of registration is issued without an examination pursuant to this section. (Amended by Stats. 2014, Ch. 395, Sec. 12. (SB 1243) Effective January 1, 2015.)
  71. 4845.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2.5. Registered Veterinary Technicians [4836 - 4845] ( Heading of Article 2.5 amended by Stats. 1995, Ch. 60, Sec. 16. )

    Verify source ↗

    The board may issue a probationary registration and set or change its terms. It must also request proof of dismissed convictions, consider rehabilitation materials, and include specified probation terms for qualified new applicants.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 2.5. Registered Veterinary Technicians [4836 - 4845] ( Heading of Article 2.5 amended by Stats. 1995, Ch. 60, Sec. 16. ) ## 4845. (a) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the board may, in its sole discretion, issue a probationary registration to an applicant subject to terms and conditions deemed appropriate by the board, including, but not limited to, the following: (1) Continuing medical, psychiatric, or psychological treatment. (2) Ongoing participation in a specified rehabilitation program. (3) Abstention from the use of alcohol or drugs. (4) Compliance with all provisions of this chapter. (b) (1) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, and for purposes of this section, when deciding whether to issue a probationary registration, the board shall request that an applicant with a dismissed conviction provide proof of that dismissal and shall give special consideration to applicants whose convictions have been dismissed pursuant to Section 1203.4 or 1203.4a of the Penal Code. (2) The board shall also take into account and consider any other reasonable documents or individual character references provided by the applicant that may serve as evidence of rehabilitation as deemed appropriate by the board. (c) The board may modify or terminate the terms and conditions imposed on the probationary registration upon receipt of a petition from the applicant or registrant. (d) For purposes of issuing a probationary license to qualified new applicants, the board shall develop standard terms of probation that shall include, but not be limited to, the following: (1) A three-year limit on the individual probationary registration. (2) A process to obtain a standard registration for applicants who were issued a probationary registration. (3) Supervision requirements. (4) Compliance and quarterly reporting requirements. (Added by Stats. 2008, Ch. 675, Sec. 5. Effective January 1, 2009.)
  72. 4846.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 3. Issuance of Licenses [4846 - 4857] ( Article 3 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. )

    Verify source ↗

    To get a California veterinary medicine license, an individual must meet application, fee, fingerprint, exam, and disclosure requirements.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 3. Issuance of Licenses [4846 - 4857] ( Article 3 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## 4846. (a) In order to obtain a license to practice veterinary medicine in California, an individual shall meet the following requirements: (1) Graduate from a veterinary college recognized by the board or receive a certificate from the Educational Commission for Foreign Veterinary Graduates (ECFVG) or the Program for the Assessment of Veterinary Education Equivalence (PAVE). Proof of graduation shall be directly submitted to the board by the veterinary college or from the American Association of Veterinary State Boards (AAVSB). Proof of certificate shall be directly submitted to the board by ECFVG or PAVE. (2) Complete a board-approved license application. (3) Pay the applicable fees specified in Section 4905. (4) As directed by the board pursuant to Section 144, submit a full set of fingerprints for the purpose of conducting a criminal history record check and undergo a state and federal criminal offender record information search conducted through the Department of Justice, pursuant to subdivision (u) of Section 11105 of the Penal Code. The Department of Justice shall provide a state or federal response to the board pursuant to paragraph (1) of subdivision (p) of Section 11105 of the Penal Code. (5) Pass an examination consisting of the following: (A) A licensing examination that is administered on a national basis. If the applicant passed the national licensing examination over five years from the date of submitting the California veterinarian license application, the applicant shall satisfy one of the following: (i) Retake and pass the national licensing examination. (ii) Submit proof of having practiced clinical veterinary medicine for a minimum of two years and completed a minimum of 2,500 hours of clinical practice in another state, Canadian province, or United States territory within the three years immediately preceding filing an application for licensure in this state. (iii) Complete the minimum continuing education requirements of Section 4858.1 for the current and preceding year. (B) A veterinary law examination administered by the board concerning the statutes and regulations of this chapter. The examination may be administered by regular mail, email, or by other electronic means. The applicant shall certify that the applicant personally completed the examination. Any false statement is a violation subject to Section 4831. Every applicant who obtains a score of at least 80 percent on the veterinary law examination shall be deemed to have passed. University of California and Western University of Health Sciences veterinary medical students who have successfully completed a board-approved course on veterinary law and ethics covering this chapter shall be exempt from this subparagraph. (b) The applicant shall disclose each state, Canadian province, or United States territory in which the applicant currently holds or has ever held a license to practice veterinary medicine. License verification, including any disciplinary or enforcement history, shall be confirmed through electronic means or direct submission from each state, Canadian province, or United States territory in which the applicant has identified the applicant holds or has ever held a license to practice veterinary medicine. (c) A veterinarian license application shall be subject to denial pursuant to Sections 480, 4875, and 4883. (Amended by Stats. 2025, Ch. 195, Sec. 20. (AB 1502) Effective January 1, 2026.)
  73. 4846.1.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 3. Issuance of Licenses [4846 - 4857] ( Article 3 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. )

    Verify source ↗

    If a veterinary college is not recognized by the board, the board may determine graduates’ qualifications, review their educational experience, and adopt rules to carry out this section.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 3. Issuance of Licenses [4846 - 4857] ( Article 3 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## 4846.1. If the veterinary college from which an applicant is graduated is not recognized by the board, the board shall have the authority to determine the qualifications of such graduates and to review the quality of the educational experience attained by them in an unrecognized veterinary college. The board shall have the authority to adopt rules and regulations to implement this provision. (Added by Stats. 1975, Ch. 265.)
  74. 4846.2.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 3. Issuance of Licenses [4846 - 4857] ( Article 3 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. )

    Verify source ↗

    If the board finds an applicant deficient in qualification or educational experience, it may require the applicant to complete remedial or other requirements prescribed by regulation.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 3. Issuance of Licenses [4846 - 4857] ( Article 3 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## 4846.2. If the board finds in evaluating the graduate described in Section 4846.1 that such applicant is deficient in qualification or in the quality of his educational experience the board may require such applicant to fulfill such other remedial or other requirements as the board, by regulation, may prescribe. (Added by Stats. 1975, Ch. 265.)
  75. 4847.1.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 3. Issuance of Licenses [4846 - 4857] ( Article 3 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. )

    Verify source ↗

    If an applicant does not finish an application within one year after filing, the application is abandoned and the fee is forfeited. A later application after abandonment is treated as a new application, and applicants must tell the board about changes to mailing or employment address after filing.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 3. Issuance of Licenses [4846 - 4857] ( Article 3 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## 4847.1. (a) If an applicant fails to complete their application within one year after it has been filed, the application shall be considered abandoned and the application fee forfeited. (b) An application submitted subsequent to the abandonment of the former application shall be treated as a new application. (c) An applicant shall notify the board of any changes in mailing or employment address that occur after filing the application. (Added by Stats. 2021, Ch. 631, Sec. 15. (AB 1535) Effective January 1, 2022.)
  76. 4848.1.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 3. Issuance of Licenses [4846 - 4857] ( Article 3 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. )

    Verify source ↗

    This section lets certain university-employed veterinarians or applicants obtain a university license, subject to employment, exam, application, and fee requirements.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 3. Issuance of Licenses [4846 - 4857] ( Article 3 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## 4848.1. (a) A veterinarian engaged in the practice of veterinary medicine, as defined in Section 4826, employed by the University of California and engaged in the performance of duties in connection with the School of Veterinary Medicine or employed by the Western University of Health Sciences and engaged in the performance of duties in connection with the College of Veterinary Medicine shall be issued a university license pursuant to this section or hold a license to practice veterinary medicine in this state. (b) An individual may apply for and be issued a university license if all of the following are satisfied: (1) The applicant is currently employed by the University of California or Western University of Health Sciences, as defined in subdivision (a). (2) The applicant passes an examination concerning the statutes and regulations of this chapter, administered by the board, pursuant to subparagraph (B) of paragraph (5) of subdivision (a) of Section 4846. (3) The applicant completes and submits the application specified by the board and pays the application and the initial license fee, pursuant to Section 4905. (c) A university license: (1) Shall automatically cease to be valid upon termination or cessation of employment by the University of California or by the Western University of Health Sciences. (2) Shall be subject to the license renewal provisions in Section 4900 and the payment of the renewal fee pursuant to subdivision (g) of Section 4905. (3) Shall be subject to denial, revocation, or suspension pursuant to Sections 480, 4875, and 4883. (4) Authorizes the holder to practice veterinary medicine only at an educational institution described in subdivision (a) and any locations formally affiliated with those institutions. (d) An individual who holds a university license is exempt from satisfying the license renewal requirements of Section 4858.1. (Amended by Stats. 2025, Ch. 195, Sec. 22. (AB 1502) Effective January 1, 2026.)
  77. 485.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 1.5. DENIAL, SUSPENSION AND REVOCATION OF LICENSES [475 - 499] ( Division 1.5 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Denial of Licenses [480 - 489] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. )

    Verify source ↗

    If a license application is denied, the board must either file and serve a statement of issues or notify the applicant of the denial and hearing rights.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 1.5. DENIAL, SUSPENSION AND REVOCATION OF LICENSES [475 - 499] ( Division 1.5 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Denial of Licenses [480 - 489] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. ) ## 485. Upon denial of an application for a license under this chapter or Section 496, the board shall do either of the following: (a) File and serve a statement of issues in accordance with Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 11500) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code. (b) Notify the applicant that the application is denied, stating (1) the reason for the denial, and (2) that the applicant has the right to a hearing under Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 11500) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code if written request for hearing is made within 60 days after service of the notice of denial. Unless written request for hearing is made within the 60-day period, the applicant’s right to a hearing is deemed waived. Service of the notice of denial may be made in the manner authorized for service of summons in civil actions, or by registered mail addressed to the applicant at the latest address filed by the applicant in writing with the board in his or her application or otherwise. Service by mail is complete on the date of mailing. (Amended by Stats. 1997, Ch. 758, Sec. 2.3. Effective January 1, 1998.)
  78. 4850.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 3. Issuance of Licenses [4846 - 4857] ( Article 3 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. )

    Verify source ↗

    Licensed persons under this chapter must conspicuously display their license in their principal place of business.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 3. Issuance of Licenses [4846 - 4857] ( Article 3 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## 4850. Every person holding a license under this chapter shall conspicuously display the license in his or her principal place of business. (Amended by Stats. 2005, Ch. 621, Sec. 80. Effective January 1, 2006.)
  79. 4852.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 3. Issuance of Licenses [4846 - 4857] ( Article 3 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. )

    Verify source ↗

    License holders must tell the board within 30 days if they change their mailing address. The board cannot renew a noncompliant license unless the penalty fee is paid, and renewal applicants may state whether they changed address.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 3. Issuance of Licenses [4846 - 4857] ( Article 3 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## 4852. Every person holding a license issued under this chapter who changes his or her mailing address shall notify the board of his or her new mailing address within 30 days of the change. The board shall not renew the license of any person who fails to comply with this section unless the person pays the penalty fee prescribed in Section 4905. An applicant for the renewal of a license shall specify in his or her application whether he or she has changed his or her mailing address and the board may accept that statement as evidence of the fact. (Amended by Stats. 1997, Ch. 642, Sec. 20. Effective January 1, 1998.)
  80. 4853.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 3. Issuance of Licenses [4846 - 4857] ( Article 3 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. )

    Verify source ↗

    Veterinary premises must be registered with the board, and the owner or operator must file a registration application and update the board about required ownership or management changes. Some telehealth locations and certain mobile units or vehicles are exempt if the stated conditions are met.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 3. Issuance of Licenses [4846 - 4857] ( Article 3 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## 4853. (a) All veterinary premises shall be registered with the board. The certificate of registration shall be on a form prescribed in accordance with Section 164. (b) “Premises” for purposes of this chapter shall mean the location of operation where veterinary medicine, veterinary dentistry, veterinary surgery, and the various branches thereof is being practiced and shall include a building, kennel, mobile unit, or vehicle. Mobile units and vehicles shall be exempted from independent registration with the board if they are operated from a building or facility that is the licensee manager’s principal place of business and the building is registered with the board, and the registration identifies and declares the use of the mobile unit or vehicle. (c) The owner or operator of a veterinary premises shall submit a premises registration application to the board. The application shall set forth the name of each owner or operator of the premises, including the type of corporate entity, if applicable, the name of the premises, and the name of the responsible licensee manager who is to act for and on behalf of the registered premises. Substitution of the responsible licensee manager may be accomplished by application to the board if the following conditions are met: (1) The person substituted qualifies by presenting satisfactory evidence that the person possesses a valid, unexpired, and unrevoked license as provided by this chapter and that the license is not currently under suspension. (2) No circumvention of the law is contemplated by the substitution. (d) If the owner or operator of a veterinary premises is a veterinary corporation practicing pursuant to Article 6 (commencing with Section 4910), the application shall set forth the names and titles of each officer, director, or shareholder. Any changes in the officers, directors, or shareholders shall be reported to the board within 30 days. (e) If the owner or operator of a veterinary premises is a corporation or other artificial legal entity other than a veterinary corporation as provided under subdivision (d), the application shall set forth the names and titles of all owners, officers, general partners, if any, and the agent for service of process. Any changes in the owners, officers, general partners, or agent for service of process shall be reported to the board within 30 days. (f) The premises registration is nontransferable. In the event of change of an owner or operator of the premises, the premises registration holder shall notify the board of the change within 30 days after the change. (g) This section does not authorize any person, corporation, or artificial legal entity, other than a California-licensed veterinarian or a veterinary corporation practicing pursuant to Article 6 (commencing with Section 4910) and the Moscone-Knox Professional Corporation Act (Part 4 (commencing with Section 13400) of Division 3 of Title 1 of the Corporations Code), to furnish to any person or animal patient any veterinary services, diagnosis, or treatment within the scope of California veterinarian licensure under this chapter. This section does not authorize any person, other than a California-licensed veterinarian within the scope of their license, to engage directly or indirectly in the practice of veterinary medicine, veterinary surgery, veterinary dentistry, and the various branches thereof in accordance with Section 4826. This section does not regulate, govern, or affect in any manner the practice of veterinary medicine, veterinary surgery, or veterinary dentistry by any person duly licensed to engage in such practice. (h) The location where a veterinarian practices telehealth shall be exempt from the requirement that it be registered pursuant to this section if all of the following requirements are satisfied: (1) The veterinarian does not perform in-person examination or treatment of animal patients at the location. (2) No veterinary drug, medicine, appliance, or medical equipment is kept at the location. (3) The veterinary medical records required pursuant to Sections 4855 and 4856 are created, maintained, and stored so as to protect the veterinary medical records from access by unauthorized individuals, damage, or loss. (4) The following information shall be provided on any electronic publication, including any internet website, through which the veterinarian provides or offers to provide veterinary medical services: (A) The veterinarian’s name, contact information, and California veterinarian license number, prominently displayed. (B) Contact information and instruction for obtaining a copy of the animal patient’s medical records. (C) A statement that a client may contact the Veterinary Medical Board if the client has any questions or complaints regarding the veterinarian. (Amended by Stats. 2024, Ch. 80, Sec. 5. (SB 1525) Effective January 1, 2025.)
  81. 4853.1.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 3. Issuance of Licenses [4846 - 4857] ( Article 3 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. )

    Verify source ↗

    An application to register a premises under Section 4853 must be made on a form provided by the board.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 3. Issuance of Licenses [4846 - 4857] ( Article 3 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## 4853.1. Each application to register a premises pursuant to Section 4853 shall be made on a form provided by the board. (Amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 631, Sec. 21. (AB 1535) Effective January 1, 2022.)
  82. 4853.5.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 3. Issuance of Licenses [4846 - 4857] ( Article 3 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. )

    Verify source ↗

    The board may withhold, suspend, or revoke veterinary premises registration, and may also impose a fine, if specified sanitation or Section 4854 violations are found after an administrative hearing.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 3. Issuance of Licenses [4846 - 4857] ( Article 3 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## 4853.5. When it has been adjudicated in an administrative hearing that the licensee manager has failed to keep the premises and all equipment therein in a clean and sanitary condition as provided for in subdivision (h) of Section 4883, or is in violation of any of the provisions of Section 4854, the board may withhold, suspend, or revoke the registration of veterinary premises, or assess a fine of not less than fifty dollars ($50) nor more than five hundred dollars ($500) per day until such violation has been rectified, or by both such suspension and fine. The total amount of any fine assessed pursuant to this section shall not exceed five thousand dollars ($5,000). (Amended by Stats. 1980, Ch. 471, Sec. 8.)
  83. 4853.6.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 3. Issuance of Licenses [4846 - 4857] ( Article 3 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. )

    Verify source ↗

    The board must deny, suspend, or revoke a veterinary premises registration in specified cases, and it may do so for unlicensed practice. It also must not renew the registration if no licensee manager is associated with the premises.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 3. Issuance of Licenses [4846 - 4857] ( Article 3 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## 4853.6. (a) The board shall deny, suspend, or revoke registration of a veterinary premises if any of the following occur: (1) The licensee manager set forth in the application in accordance with Section 4853 ceases to become responsible for management of the registered premises and no substitution of the responsible licensee manager has been made by application as provided for in Section 4853. (2) The premises registration holder or the licensee manager has, under proceedings conducted in accordance with Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 11500) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, the license to practice veterinary medicine, surgery, and dentistry revoked or suspended. (3) Unless licensed pursuant to Section 4825, the premises registration holder has practiced, influenced, or exerted control over the provision of veterinary medicine, veterinary dentistry, veterinary surgery, and the various branches thereof. (b) The board shall not renew the premises registration if there is no licensee manager associated with the premises. (c) The board may deny, suspend, or revoke registration of the veterinary premises for unlicensed practice of veterinary medicine, veterinary dentistry, veterinary surgery, and the various branches thereof by the premises registration holder. (Amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 631, Sec. 22. (AB 1535) Effective January 1, 2022.)
  84. 4853.7.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 3. Issuance of Licenses [4846 - 4857] ( Article 3 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. )

    Verify source ↗

    A premise registration not renewed within five years after expiration cannot be renewed or restored, reissued, or reinstated. A new premise registration may still be applied for if the required conditions are met.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 3. Issuance of Licenses [4846 - 4857] ( Article 3 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## 4853.7. A premise registration that is not renewed within five years after its expiration may not be renewed and shall not be restored, reissued, or reinstated thereafter. However, an application for a new premise registration may be submitted and obtained if both of the following conditions are met: (a) No fact, circumstance, or condition exists that, if the premise registration was issued, would justify its revocation or suspension. (b) All of the fees that would be required for the initial premise registration are paid at the time of application. (Added by Stats. 2016, Ch. 484, Sec. 50. (SB 1193) Effective January 1, 2017.)
  85. 4854.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 3. Issuance of Licenses [4846 - 4857] ( Article 3 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. )

    Verify source ↗

    Veterinary premises and the instruments, apparatus, and apparel used there must be kept clean and sanitary at all times and meet minimum standards set by the board.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 3. Issuance of Licenses [4846 - 4857] ( Article 3 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## 4854. All premises where veterinary medicine, veterinary dentistry, or veterinary surgery is being practiced, and all instruments, apparatus and apparel used in connection with those practices, shall be kept clean and sanitary at all times, and shall conform to those minimum standards established by the board. (Added by Stats. 1978, Ch. 1314.)
  86. 4854.1.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 3. Issuance of Licenses [4846 - 4857] ( Article 3 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. )

    Verify source ↗

    A non-veterinarian premises registration holder must not interfere with or direct the professional judgment of California-licensed veterinarians or registered veterinary technicians. The board may require information, including employment contracts, if it reasonably needs it to enforce this section.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 3. Issuance of Licenses [4846 - 4857] ( Article 3 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## 4854.1. A premises registration holder who is not a California-licensed veterinarian pursuant to Section 4825 shall not interfere with, control, or otherwise direct the professional judgment of any California licensed veterinarian or registered veterinary technician. The board may require any information, including, but not limited to, employment contracts between the premises registration holder and a California-licensed veterinarian or registered veterinary technician, the board deems is reasonably necessary for the enforcement of this section. (Added by Stats. 2021, Ch. 631, Sec. 23. (AB 1535) Effective January 1, 2022.)
  87. 4854.5.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 3. Issuance of Licenses [4846 - 4857] ( Article 3 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. )

    Verify source ↗

    Off-campus educational program sites must display a conspicuous consumer notice saying the veterinary facilities are also used for diagnosis and treatment by graduate students.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 3. Issuance of Licenses [4846 - 4857] ( Article 3 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## 4854.5. (a) Every off-campus educational program site shall display in a conspicuous place a consumer notification specifying that the veterinary facilities are also being used for diagnosis and treatment of animals by graduate students enrolled in a veterinary medicine program. (b) Notwithstanding Section 4831, or any other provision of law, a violation of subdivision (a) shall not be a crime. (Added by Stats. 2002, Ch. 131, Sec. 3. Effective January 1, 2003.)
  88. 4855.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 3. Issuance of Licenses [4846 - 4857] ( Article 3 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. )

    Verify source ↗

    Veterinarians covered by this chapter must keep animal treatment records and give a copy to the client or authorized agent within 5 days of request.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 3. Issuance of Licenses [4846 - 4857] ( Article 3 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## 4855. (a) A veterinarian subject to the provisions of this chapter shall, as required by regulation of the board, keep a written record of all animals receiving veterinary services, and provide a copy of that record to the client or the client’s authorized agent within five days of receiving the client’s or the client’s authorized agent’s verbal or written request. (b) If requested verbally or in writing by the client or the client’s authorized agent because the animal is in critical condition or direct transfer to another veterinary premises for medical care is recommended, the veterinarian, upon release of the animal patient from the veterinarian’s care, shall either: (1) Provide a copy or summary of the written record to the client or the client’s authorized agent. (2) If a written record is not available upon release of the animal patient, communicate information to facilitate continuity of care of the animal patient either to: (A) The receiving veterinarian or veterinary premises. (B) The client or the client’s authorized agent if the receiving veterinary premises is unknown. (c) The minimum amount of information that shall be included in written records and summaries shall be established by the board. (d) The minimum duration of time for which a registered veterinary premises shall retain the written record or a complete copy of the written record shall be determined by the board. (Amended by Stats. 2025, Ch. 195, Sec. 23. (AB 1502) Effective January 1, 2026.)
  89. 4855.1.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 3. Issuance of Licenses [4846 - 4857] ( Article 3 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. )

    Verify source ↗

    The licensee manager of a veterinary premises must provide a client payment record within 30 days of a written or verbal request, and keep the record for at least three years after the animal’s last visit.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 3. Issuance of Licenses [4846 - 4857] ( Article 3 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## 4855.1. Within 30 days of receiving a written or verbal request by the client or their authorized agent for a record of client payments, the licensee manager of the veterinary premises shall provide a record of client payments made to the veterinary premises related to services and treatment provided. A record of client payments made to the veterinary premises related to services and treatments provided shall be maintained for a minimum of three years after the animal’s last visits. (Added by Stats. 2025, Ch. 195, Sec. 24. (AB 1502) Effective January 1, 2026.)
  90. 4856.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 3. Issuance of Licenses [4846 - 4857] ( Article 3 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. )

    Verify source ↗

    Veterinarians and related premises must let the board inspect required records, equipment, and drugs, and must provide copies of required records immediately on request.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 3. Issuance of Licenses [4846 - 4857] ( Article 3 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## 4856. (a) All records required by law to be kept by a veterinarian subject to this chapter, including, but not limited to, records pertaining to diagnosis and treatment of animals and records pertaining to drugs or devices for use on animals, shall be open to inspection by the board, or its authorized representatives, during an inspection as part of a regular inspection program by the board, or during an investigation initiated in response to a complaint that a licensee has violated any law or regulation that constitutes grounds for disciplinary action by the board. A copy of all those records shall be provided to the board immediately upon request. (b) Equipment and drugs on the premises, or any other place, where veterinary medicine, veterinary dentistry, veterinary surgery, or the various branches thereof is being practiced, or otherwise in the possession of a veterinarian for purposes of that practice, shall be open to inspection by the board, or its authorized representatives, during an inspection as part of a regular inspection program by the board, or during an investigation initiated in response to a complaint that a licensee has violated any law or regulation that constitutes grounds for disciplinary action by the board. (c) The licensee manager for the registered veterinary premises shall make any records related to the services a veterinarian has provided on behalf of the registered veterinary premises available for inspection by that veterinarian. (Amended by Stats. 2025, Ch. 195, Sec. 25. (AB 1502) Effective January 1, 2026.)
  91. 4857.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 3. Issuance of Licenses [4846 - 4857] ( Article 3 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. )

    Verify source ↗

    Veterinarians generally must not disclose animal-patient or client information, unless a listed exception applies.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 3. Issuance of Licenses [4846 - 4857] ( Article 3 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## 4857. (a) A veterinarian licensed under this chapter shall not disclose any information concerning an animal patient receiving veterinary services, the client responsible for the animal patient receiving veterinary services, or the veterinary care provided to an animal patient, except under any one of the following circumstances: (1) Upon written or witnessed verbal authorization by knowing and informed consent of the client. (2) Upon authorization received by electronic transmission when originated by the client. (3) In response to a valid court order or subpoena. (4) As may be required to ensure compliance with any federal, state, county, or city law or regulation, including, but not limited to, the California Public Records Act (Division 10 (commencing with Section 7920.000) of Title 1 of the Government Code). (5) If the care or service was for a horse that has participated in the previous year, or is intended to participate, in a licensed horse race. In these situations, the entire medical record for the horse shall be made available upon request to anyone responsible for the direct medical care of the horse, including the owner, trainer, or veterinarian, the California Horse Racing Board or any other state or local governmental entity, and the racing association or fair conducting the licensed horse race. (6) As otherwise provided in this section. (b) This section shall not apply to the extent that the client responsible for an animal patient or an authorized agent of the client responsible for the animal patient has filed or caused to be filed a civil or criminal complaint that places the veterinarian’s care and treatment of the animal patient or the nature and extent of the injuries to the animal patient at issue, or when the veterinarian is acting to comply with federal, state, county, or city laws or regulations. (c) A veterinarian shall be subject to the criminal penalties set forth in Section 4831 or any other provision of this code for a violation of this section. In addition, any veterinarian who negligently releases confidential information shall be liable in a civil action for any damages caused by the release of that information. (d) Nothing in this section is intended to prevent the sharing of veterinary medical information between veterinarians and peace officers, humane society officers, or animal control officers who are acting to protect the welfare of animals. (e) Nothing in this section is intended to prevent the sharing of veterinary medical information between veterinarians and facilities for the purpose of diagnosis or treatment of the animal patient that is the subject of the medical records. (Amended by Stats. 2024, Ch. 497, Sec. 64. (SB 1526) Effective January 1, 2025.)
  92. 4858.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 3.1. Continuing Education [4858 - 4858.3] ( Article 3.1 added by Stats. 2025, Ch. 195, Sec. 26. )

    Verify source ↗

    Veterinarians and veterinary technician registrants must complete continuing education, renewal applicants must certify compliance, and applicants must keep and provide records for audit. The board may audit records and may exempt applicants for health, military service, or hardship reasons.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 3.1. Continuing Education [4858 - 4858.3] ( Article 3.1 added by Stats. 2025, Ch. 195, Sec. 26. ) ## 4858. (a) Except for the first renewal period, all holders of veterinarian licenses and veterinary technician registrations issued under the provisions of this chapter shall obtain continuing education relevant to developments in the practice of veterinary medicine. (b) A person applying for renewal of their license or registration in active status shall certify, under penalty of perjury, that they are in compliance with this article, as applicable. (c) The board shall have the right to audit the records of all applicants to verify the completion of the continuing education requirement. Applicants shall maintain records of completion of required continuing education coursework for a period of four years and shall make these records available to the board upon request for auditing purposes. If the board, during this audit, questions whether any course reported by the applicant satisfies the continuing education requirement, the applicant shall provide information to the board concerning the content of the course, course hours, and the name of its sponsor and cosponsor. (d) An applicant may apply for an inactive license or to restore an inactive license under the provisions of Article 9 (commencing with Section 700) of Chapter 1. (e) Notwithstanding Section 4858.1, the board, in its discretion, may exempt from the continuing education requirement an applicant who for reasons of health, military service, or undue hardship cannot meet those requirements. Applications for waivers shall be submitted on a form provided by the board. (Added by Stats. 2025, Ch. 195, Sec. 26. (AB 1502) Effective January 1, 2026.)
  93. 4858.1.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 3.1. Continuing Education [4858 - 4858.3] ( Article 3.1 added by Stats. 2025, Ch. 195, Sec. 26. )

    Verify source ↗

    Veterinarian license renewal requires continuing education, including 36 hours in the prior two years and one credit hour every four years on judicious use of medically important antimicrobial drugs.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 3.1. Continuing Education [4858 - 4858.3] ( Article 3.1 added by Stats. 2025, Ch. 195, Sec. 26. ) ## 4858.1. (a) The board shall issue renewed veterinarian licenses only to those applicants who have completed a minimum of 36 hours of continuing education in the preceding two years. (b) Continuing education hours for veterinarians shall be earned as follows: (1) Attending courses relevant to veterinary medicine and sponsored or cosponsored by any of the following: (A) The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), its accredited veterinary medical colleges, or its recognized specialty or affiliated allied groups or educational organizations. (B) State veterinary medical associations or their affiliated associations or educational organizations. (C) Federal, state, or local government agencies. (D) Providers accredited, approved, or recognized by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME), American Medical Association (AMA), American Dental Association Continuing Education Recognition Program (ADA CERP), or American Association of Veterinary State Boards (AAVSB). (2) A total of 6 hours or fewer of the required 36 hours of continuing education may be earned by doing either of the following, or a combination thereof: (A) Up to six hours may be earned by taking self-study courses, which may include, but are not limited to, reading journals, viewing video recordings, or listening to audio recordings. (B) Up to four hours may be earned by providing pro bono spaying or neutering services for a public animal control agency or shelter, society for the prevention of cruelty to animals shelter, humane society shelter, or rescue group in compliance with the following: (i) The services shall be performed at a veterinary premises registered with the board pursuant to Section 4853. (ii) Proof of completion of continuing education pursuant to this subparagraph shall be documented by the director or administrator of the public animal control agency or shelter, society for the prevention of cruelty to animals shelter, humane society shelter, or rescue group, with a copy provided to the veterinarian, and include the date of performing the spaying and neutering services, the name, address, and telephone number of the entity for which the spaying and neutering services were provided, and the name, address, and veterinary premises registration where the spaying and neutering services were performed. (3) A veterinarian who teaches a course specified in subparagraphs (A) to (D), inclusive, of paragraph (1) of subdivision (b) may receive continuing education credit for the course one time during a renewal period. (4) Up to 16 hours of continuing education credit may be earned by participating as an expert in an examination preparation workshop for the national licensing examination. (5) Up to 24 hours of continuing education credit may be earned for completing courses in business practice management or licensee mental health and wellness and its impact on the delivery of veterinary services. (6) Up to one hour of continuing education credit may be earned by passing the Veterinary Law Examination (VLE). (7) Up to two hours of continuing education credit may be earned by attending a board of Veterinary Medicine Multidisciplinary Advisory Committee meeting, as verified by the board. (c) Providers offering continuing education courses pursuant to paragraph (1) or (2) of subdivision (b) shall comply with the requirements of Section 4858.3. (d) For good cause, the board may adopt an order specifying, on a prospective basis, that a course provider authorized pursuant to paragraph (1) or (2) of subdivision (b) is no longer an acceptable provider. (e) (1) A licensed veterinarian who renews their license shall complete a minimum of one credit hour of continuing education on the judicious use of medically important antimicrobial drugs every four years as part of their continuing education requirements. (2) For purposes of this subdivision, “medically important antimicrobial drug” means an antimicrobial drug listed in Appendix A of the federal Food and Drug Administration’s Guidance for Industry #152, including critically important, highly important, and important antimicrobial drugs, as that appendix may be amended. (Added by Stats. 2025, Ch. 195, Sec. 26. (AB 1502) Effective January 1, 2026.)
  94. 4858.2.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 3.1. Continuing Education [4858 - 4858.3] ( Article 3.1 added by Stats. 2025, Ch. 195, Sec. 26. )

    Verify source ↗

    The board may renew a veterinary technician registration only if the applicant completed at least 20 hours of continuing education in the prior two years, and course providers covered by this section must follow Section 4858.3.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 3.1. Continuing Education [4858 - 4858.3] ( Article 3.1 added by Stats. 2025, Ch. 195, Sec. 26. ) ## 4858.2. (a) The board shall issue renewed veterinary technician registrations only to those applicants who have completed a minimum of 20 hours of continuing education in the preceding two years. (b) Continuing education hours for registered veterinary technicians shall be earned as follows: (1) Attending courses provided by those specified in subparagraphs (A) to (D), inclusive, of paragraph (1) of subdivision (b) of Section 4858.1 or sponsored or cosponsored by one of the following: (A) National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA) recognized veterinary technician specialty organizations. (B) State veterinary technician associations recognized by the secretary of state in that state. (2) Up to 4 hours of the required 20 hours of continuing education may be earned by doing either of the following, or a combination thereof: (A) Up to four hours may be earned by taking self-study courses, which may include, but are not limited to, reading journals, viewing video recordings, or listening to audio recordings. (B) Up to two hours may be earned by performing pro bono animal health care tasks related to spaying or neutering services for a public animal control agency or shelter, society for the prevention of cruelty to animals shelter, humane society shelter, or rescue group in compliance with the following: (i) The services shall be performed under the direct supervision of a licensed veterinarian at a veterinary premises registered with the board pursuant to Section 4853. (ii) Proof of completion of continuing education pursuant to this subparagraph shall be documented, with a copy provided to the registered veterinary technician, by the supervising veterinarian and include the date of performance of animal health care tasks, the name, address, and telephone number of the entity for which the animal health care tasks were provided, the name and veterinarian license number of the supervising veterinarian, and the name, address, and veterinary premises registration where the animal health care tasks were performed. (3) A registered veterinary technician who teaches a course described in paragraph (1) of subdivision (b) may receive continuing education credit for the course one time during a renewal period. (4) Up to nine hours of continuing education credit may be earned by participating as an expert in an examination preparation workshop for the national licensing examination. (5) Up to 13 hours of continuing education credit may be earned for completing courses in business practice management or mental health and wellness and its impact on the delivery of veterinary services. (6) Up to one hour of continuing education credit may be earned by passing the Veterinary Law Examination. (7) Up to two hours of continuing education credit may be earned by attending a board or Veterinary Medicine Multidisciplinary Advisory Committee meeting, as verified by the board. (c) Providers offering continuing education courses pursuant to paragraph (1) or (2) of subdivision (b) shall comply with the requirements of Section 4858.3. (d) For good cause, the board may adopt an order specifying, on a prospective basis, that a continuing education source authorized pursuant to paragraph (1) or (2) of subdivision (b) is no longer an acceptable source. (Added by Stats. 2025, Ch. 195, Sec. 26. (AB 1502) Effective January 1, 2026.)
  95. 4858.3.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 3.1. Continuing Education [4858 - 4858.3] ( Article 3.1 added by Stats. 2025, Ch. 195, Sec. 26. )

    Verify source ↗

    A course provider must give attendees a completion certificate after the course is finished and keep course records for four years.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 3.1. Continuing Education [4858 - 4858.3] ( Article 3.1 added by Stats. 2025, Ch. 195, Sec. 26. ) ## 4858.3. (a) Upon a course attendee’s completion of a continuing education course sponsored by a provider pursuant to paragraph (1) of subdivision (b) of Section 4858.1 or paragraph (1) of subdivision (b) of Section 4858.2, as applicable, the course provider shall issue to the course attendee a certificate of course completion containing the following: (1) The name of the attendee. (2) The course title. (3) The provider name and address. (4) The provider number assigned by the entity accrediting, approving, or recognizing the course provider, if applicable, and the name of that entity. (5) The date of the course. (6) The number of continuing education hours granted for the course. (7) The signature of the course instructor, provider, or provider designee. (b) For providers that hold continuing education events with multiple and concurrent courses, the record of course completion shall specify both of the following: (1) The information specified in paragraphs (1) to (7), inclusive, of subdivision (a). (2) The maximum number of hours offered at the continuing education event, accompanied by a log of the actual courses attended by the attendee. The log of courses attended shall be completed by either the provider or the attendee. (c) The course provider shall maintain records related to continuing education courses provided for a period of four years from the date the course was completed. The records shall include: (1) Syllabi or course outlines for each course. (2) The time and location of each course. (3) Course instructors’ curriculum vitae or resumes. (4) Registration rosters with the names and addresses of individuals who attended the courses. (5) A sample of the record of course completion form provided to attendees for verifying attendance. (6) A sample of the evaluation form completed by attendees. (Added by Stats. 2025, Ch. 195, Sec. 26. (AB 1502) Effective January 1, 2026.)
  96. 486.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 1.5. DENIAL, SUSPENSION AND REVOCATION OF LICENSES [475 - 499] ( Division 1.5 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Denial of Licenses [480 - 489] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. )

    Verify source ↗

    If the board denies a license application, it must tell the applicant when they may reapply, consider rehabilitation evidence on reapplication, and provide the rehabilitation criteria.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 1.5. DENIAL, SUSPENSION AND REVOCATION OF LICENSES [475 - 499] ( Division 1.5 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Denial of Licenses [480 - 489] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. ) ## 486. Where the board has denied an application for a license under this chapter or Section 496, it shall, in its decision, or in its notice under subdivision (b) of Section 485, inform the applicant of the following: (a) The earliest date on which the applicant may reapply for a license which shall be one year from the effective date of the decision, or service of the notice under subdivision (b) of Section 485, unless the board prescribes an earlier date or a later date is prescribed by another statute. (b) That all competent evidence of rehabilitation presented will be considered upon a reapplication. Along with the decision, or the notice under subdivision (b) of Section 485, the board shall serve a copy of the criteria relating to rehabilitation formulated under Section 482. (Amended by Stats. 1997, Ch. 758, Sec. 2.4. Effective January 1, 1998.)
  97. 4860.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 3.5. Wellness Evaluation Committees [4860 - 4873] ( Heading of Article 3.5 amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 631, Sec. 24. )

    Verify source ↗

    The Legislature states that the board should look for ways to identify and rehabilitate impaired veterinarians and registered veterinary technicians.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 3.5. Wellness Evaluation Committees [4860 - 4873] ( Heading of Article 3.5 amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 631, Sec. 24. ) ## 4860. It is the intent of the Legislature that the board seek ways and means to identify and rehabilitate veterinarians and registered veterinary technicians with impairment due to abuse of dangerous drugs or alcohol, affecting competency so that veterinarians and registered veterinary technicians so afflicted may be treated and returned to the practice of veterinary medicine in a manner that will not endanger the public health and safety. (Amended by Stats. 2024, Ch. 497, Sec. 65. (SB 1526) Effective January 1, 2025.)
  98. 4861.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 3.5. Wellness Evaluation Committees [4860 - 4873] ( Heading of Article 3.5 amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 631, Sec. 24. )

    Verify source ↗

    The board may establish wellness evaluation committees and appoint their members, but each committee must have a specified five-person composition.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 3.5. Wellness Evaluation Committees [4860 - 4873] ( Heading of Article 3.5 amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 631, Sec. 24. ) ## 4861. (a) One or more wellness evaluation committees is hereby authorized to be established by the board. Each wellness evaluation committee shall be composed of five persons appointed by the board. The board, in making its appointments, shall give consideration to recommendations of state and local associations and shall consider, among others, where appropriate, the appointment of individuals who have recovered from impairment or who have knowledge and expertise in the management of impairment. (b) Each wellness evaluation committee shall have the following composition: (1) At least one veterinarian licensed under this chapter. (2) At least two public members. (3) At least one registered veterinary technician registered under this chapter. (c) Each person appointed to a wellness evaluation committee shall have experience or knowledge in the evaluation or management of persons who are impaired due to alcohol or drug abuse. (d) It shall require the majority vote of the board to appoint a person to a wellness evaluation committee. Each appointment shall be at the pleasure of the board for a term not to exceed four years. In its discretion the board may stagger the terms of the initial members appointed. (e) The board president may suspend any wellness evaluation committee member pending an investigation into allegations of existing alcohol or drug addiction. If, after investigation, there is evidence of an alcohol or drug addiction relapse, the board president shall have authorized discretion to remove the member without input from the board. (f) The board may appoint a program director and other personnel as necessary to carry out this article. (Amended by Stats. 2023, Ch. 510, Sec. 57. (SB 887) Effective January 1, 2024.)
  99. 4862.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 3.5. Wellness Evaluation Committees [4860 - 4873] ( Heading of Article 3.5 amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 631, Sec. 24. )

    Verify source ↗

    Each wellness evaluation committee member is entitled to per diem and expenses under Section 103.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 3.5. Wellness Evaluation Committees [4860 - 4873] ( Heading of Article 3.5 amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 631, Sec. 24. ) ## 4862. Each member of a wellness evaluation committee shall receive per diem and expenses as provided in Section 103. (Amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 631, Sec. 26. (AB 1535) Effective January 1, 2022.)
  100. 4863.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 3.5. Wellness Evaluation Committees [4860 - 4873] ( Heading of Article 3.5 amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 631, Sec. 24. )

    Verify source ↗

    A wellness evaluation committee may transact business only when at least three members are present, and any action needs a majority vote of the committee.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 3.5. Wellness Evaluation Committees [4860 - 4873] ( Heading of Article 3.5 amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 631, Sec. 24. ) ## 4863. Three members of a wellness evaluation committee shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business at any meeting. Any action requires the majority vote of the wellness evaluation committee. (Amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 631, Sec. 27. (AB 1535) Effective January 1, 2022.)
  101. 4864.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 3.5. Wellness Evaluation Committees [4860 - 4873] ( Heading of Article 3.5 amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 631, Sec. 24. )

    Verify source ↗

    Each wellness evaluation committee must elect a chairperson and a vice chairperson from among its members.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 3.5. Wellness Evaluation Committees [4860 - 4873] ( Heading of Article 3.5 amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 631, Sec. 24. ) ## 4864. Each wellness evaluation committee shall elect from its membership a chairperson and a vice chairperson. (Amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 631, Sec. 28. (AB 1535) Effective January 1, 2022.)
  102. 4865.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 3.5. Wellness Evaluation Committees [4860 - 4873] ( Heading of Article 3.5 amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 631, Sec. 24. )

    Verify source ↗

    The board must administer the provisions of this article.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 3.5. Wellness Evaluation Committees [4860 - 4873] ( Heading of Article 3.5 amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 631, Sec. 24. ) ## 4865. The board shall administer the provisions of this article. (Added by Stats. 1982, Ch. 870, Sec. 1.)
  103. 4866.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 3.5. Wellness Evaluation Committees [4860 - 4873] ( Heading of Article 3.5 amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 631, Sec. 24. )

    Verify source ↗

    The board must set criteria for admitting, denying, or ending participation in a wellness program, and for choosing administrative physicians. Only veterinarians and registered veterinary technicians who voluntarily request wellness treatment and supervision may participate. The program may accept no more than 100 board licensees.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 3.5. Wellness Evaluation Committees [4860 - 4873] ( Heading of Article 3.5 amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 631, Sec. 24. ) ## 4866. (a) The board shall establish criteria for the acceptance, denial, or termination of veterinarians and registered veterinary technicians in a wellness program. Only those veterinarians and registered veterinary technicians who have voluntarily requested wellness treatment and supervision by a wellness evaluation committee shall participate in a program. (b) The board shall establish criteria for the selection of administrative physicians who shall examine veterinarians and registered veterinary technicians requesting wellness under a program. Any reports made under this article by the administrative physician shall constitute an exception to Sections 994 and 995 of the Evidence Code. (c) The wellness program may accept no more than 100 participants who are licensees of the board. (Amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 631, Sec. 29. (AB 1535) Effective January 1, 2022.)
  104. 4867.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 3.5. Wellness Evaluation Committees [4860 - 4873] ( Heading of Article 3.5 amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 631, Sec. 24. )

    Verify source ↗

    If a veterinarian or registered veterinary technician asks to participate in a program, the wellness evaluation committee must explain the program procedures, the participant’s rights and responsibilities, and the possible results of noncompliance.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 3.5. Wellness Evaluation Committees [4860 - 4873] ( Heading of Article 3.5 amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 631, Sec. 24. ) ## 4867. The wellness evaluation committee shall inform each veterinarian and registered veterinary technician who requests participation in a program of the procedures followed in the program, of the rights and responsibilities of the veterinarian and registered veterinary technician in the program, and of the possible results of noncompliance with the program. (Amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 631, Sec. 30. (AB 1535) Effective January 1, 2022.)
  105. 4868.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 3.5. Wellness Evaluation Committees [4860 - 4873] ( Heading of Article 3.5 amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 631, Sec. 24. )

    Verify source ↗

    Each wellness evaluation committee has specific duties for running the wellness program, including reviewing participants, designating treatment facilities, meeting as needed, and holding at least two open public meetings each year.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 3.5. Wellness Evaluation Committees [4860 - 4873] ( Heading of Article 3.5 amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 631, Sec. 24. ) ## 4868. Each wellness evaluation committee shall have the following duties and responsibilities: (a) To evaluate those veterinarians and registered veterinary technicians who request participation in the program according to the guidelines prescribed by the board and to consider the recommendation of the administrative physician on the admission of the veterinarian or registered veterinary technician to the wellness program. (b) To review and designate those treatment facilities to which veterinarians and registered veterinary technicians in a wellness program may be referred. (c) To receive and review information concerning veterinarians and registered veterinary technicians participating in the program. (d) To call meetings as necessary to consider the requests of veterinarians and registered veterinary technicians to participate in a wellness program, and to consider reports regarding veterinarians and registered veterinary technicians participating in a program from an administrative physician, or from others. (e) To consider in the case of each veterinarian and registered veterinary technician participating in a program whether they may with safety continue or resume the practice of veterinary medicine or the assisting in the practice of veterinary medicine. (f) To set forth in writing for each veterinarian and registered veterinary technician participating in a program a treatment program established for each such veterinarian and registered veterinary technician with the requirements for supervision and surveillance. (g) To hold a general meeting at least twice a year, which shall be open and public, to evaluate the program’s progress, to review data as required in reports to the board, to prepare reports to be submitted to the board, and to suggest proposals for changes in the wellness program. (Amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 631, Sec. 31. (AB 1535) Effective January 1, 2022.)
  106. 4869.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 3.5. Wellness Evaluation Committees [4860 - 4873] ( Heading of Article 3.5 amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 631, Sec. 24. )

    Verify source ↗

    A wellness evaluation committee may meet in closed session to consider reports about veterinarians or registered veterinary technicians in a wellness program, but only as needed to protect their privacy.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 3.5. Wellness Evaluation Committees [4860 - 4873] ( Heading of Article 3.5 amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 631, Sec. 24. ) ## 4869. Notwithstanding Article 9 (commencing with Section 11120) of Chapter 1 of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, relating to public meetings, a wellness evaluation committee may convene in closed session to consider reports pertaining to any veterinarian or registered veterinary technician requesting or participating in a wellness program. A wellness evaluation committee shall only convene in closed session to the extent that it is necessary to protect the privacy of a veterinarian or registered veterinary technician. (Amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 631, Sec. 32. (AB 1535) Effective January 1, 2022.)
  107. 487.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 1.5. DENIAL, SUSPENSION AND REVOCATION OF LICENSES [475 - 499] ( Division 1.5 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Denial of Licenses [480 - 489] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. )

    Verify source ↗

    If an applicant requests a hearing, the board must hold it within 90 days unless the applicant asks for or agrees in writing to a postponement or continuance.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 1.5. DENIAL, SUSPENSION AND REVOCATION OF LICENSES [475 - 499] ( Division 1.5 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Denial of Licenses [480 - 489] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. ) ## 487. If a hearing is requested by the applicant, the board shall conduct such hearing within 90 days from the date the hearing is requested unless the applicant shall request or agree in writing to a postponement or continuance of the hearing. Notwithstanding the above, the Office of Administrative Hearings may order, or on a showing of good cause, grant a request for, up to 45 additional days within which to conduct a hearing, except in cases involving alleged examination or licensing fraud, in which cases the period may be up to 180 days. In no case shall more than two such orders be made or requests be granted. (Amended by Stats. 1986, Ch. 220, Sec. 1. Effective June 30, 1986.)
  108. 4870.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 3.5. Wellness Evaluation Committees [4860 - 4873] ( Heading of Article 3.5 amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 631, Sec. 24. )

    Verify source ↗

    Veterinarians and registered veterinary technicians who ask to join a wellness program must cooperate with the treatment program set by the wellness evaluation committee.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 3.5. Wellness Evaluation Committees [4860 - 4873] ( Heading of Article 3.5 amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 631, Sec. 24. ) ## 4870. Each veterinarian and registered veterinary technician who requests participation in a wellness program shall agree to cooperate with the treatment program designed by a wellness evaluation committee. Any failure to comply with the provisions of a treatment program may result in termination of the veterinarian’s or registered veterinary technician’s participation in a program. (Amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 631, Sec. 33. (AB 1535) Effective January 1, 2022.)
  109. 4871.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 3.5. Wellness Evaluation Committees [4860 - 4873] ( Heading of Article 3.5 amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 631, Sec. 24. )

    Verify source ↗

    A wellness evaluation committee must destroy participation records after it determines a veterinarian or registered veterinary technician has been rehabilitated and the wellness program is completed.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 3.5. Wellness Evaluation Committees [4860 - 4873] ( Heading of Article 3.5 amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 631, Sec. 24. ) ## 4871. (a) After a wellness evaluation committee in its discretion has determined that a veterinarian or registered veterinary technician has been rehabilitated and the wellness program is completed, the wellness evaluation committee shall purge and destroy all records pertaining to the veterinarian’s or registered veterinary technician’s participation in a wellness program. (b) All board and wellness evaluation committee records and records of proceedings pertaining to the treatment of a veterinarian or registered veterinary technician in a program shall be kept confidential and are not subject to discovery or subpoena. (Amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 631, Sec. 34. (AB 1535) Effective January 1, 2022.)
  110. 4872.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 3.5. Wellness Evaluation Committees [4860 - 4873] ( Heading of Article 3.5 amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 631, Sec. 24. )

    Verify source ↗

    The board must provide legal representation for people who make reports to a wellness evaluation committee or the board in defamation actions.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 3.5. Wellness Evaluation Committees [4860 - 4873] ( Heading of Article 3.5 amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 631, Sec. 24. ) ## 4872. The board shall provide for the representation of any persons making reports to a wellness evaluation committee or the board under this article in any action for defamation. (Amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 631, Sec. 35. (AB 1535) Effective January 1, 2022.)
  111. 4873.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 3.5. Wellness Evaluation Committees [4860 - 4873] ( Heading of Article 3.5 amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 631, Sec. 24. )

    Verify source ↗

    The board must charge accepted veterinarians and registered veterinary technicians a wellness program registration fee and reasonable administrative fees.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 3.5. Wellness Evaluation Committees [4860 - 4873] ( Heading of Article 3.5 amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 631, Sec. 24. ) ## 4873. The board shall charge each veterinarian and registered veterinary technician who is accepted to participate in the wellness program a wellness program registration fee and reasonable administrative fees. (Amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 631, Sec. 36. (AB 1535) Effective January 1, 2022.)
  112. 4875.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Revocation and Suspension [4875 - 4887] ( Article 4 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. )

    Verify source ↗

    The board may fine a licensee, registrant, or permit holder up to $5,000 for the causes listed in Section 4883.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Revocation and Suspension [4875 - 4887] ( Article 4 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## 4875. In addition to its authority to suspend or revoke a license, registration, or permit, the board shall have the authority to assess a fine not in excess of five thousand dollars ($5,000) against a licensee, registrant, or permitholder for any of the causes specified in Section 4883. A fine may be assessed in lieu of or in addition to a suspension or revocation. Notwithstanding Section 4903, all fines collected pursuant to this section shall be deposited to the credit of the California Veterinary Medical Board Contingent Fund. (Amended by Stats. 2025, Ch. 195, Sec. 27. (AB 1502) Effective January 1, 2026.)
  113. 4875.1.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Revocation and Suspension [4875 - 4887] ( Article 4 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. )

    Verify source ↗

    The board must prioritize its investigative and prosecutorial resources toward the highest-risk cases and report annually on disciplinary actions by priority category.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Revocation and Suspension [4875 - 4887] ( Article 4 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## 4875.1. (a) In order to ensure that its resources are maximized for the protection of the public, the board shall prioritize its investigative and prosecutorial resources to ensure that individuals representing the greatest threat of harm are identified and disciplined expeditiously. Cases involving any of the following allegations shall be handled on a priority basis, as follows, with the highest priority being given to cases in paragraph (1): (1) Negligence or incompetence that involves death or serious bodily injury to an animal patient, such that the individual represents a danger to the public. (2) Cruelty to animals. (3) A conviction or convictions for a criminal charge or charges or being subject to a felony criminal proceeding without consideration of the outcome of the proceeding. (4) Practicing veterinary medicine while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. (5) Drug or alcohol abuse by an individual involving death or serious bodily injury to an animal patient or to the public. (6) Self-prescribing of any dangerous drug, as defined in Section 4022, or any controlled substance, as defined in Section 4021. (7) Repeated acts of excessive prescribing, furnishing, or administering of controlled substances, as defined in Section 4021, or repeated acts of prescribing, dispensing, or furnishing of controlled substances, as defined in Section 4021, without having first established a veterinarian-client-patient relationship pursuant to Section 4826.6. (8) Extreme departures from minimum sanitary conditions such that there is a threat to an animal patient or the public and animal health and safety, only if the case has already been subject to Section 494 and board action. (b) The board may prioritize cases involving an allegation of conduct that is not described in subdivision (a). Those cases prioritized shall not be assigned a priority equal to or higher than the priorities established in subdivision (a). (c) The board shall annually report and make publicly available the number of disciplinary actions that are taken in each priority category specified in subdivisions (a) and (b). (Amended by Stats. 2025, Ch. 195, Sec. 28. (AB 1502) Effective January 1, 2026.)
  114. 4875.2.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Revocation and Suspension [4875 - 4887] ( Article 4 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. )

    Verify source ↗

    After an investigation, the executive officer may issue a citation if there is probable cause to believe a veterinarian or other listed veterinary license/registration holder violated this chapter.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Revocation and Suspension [4875 - 4887] ( Article 4 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## 4875.2. If, upon completion of an investigation, the executive officer has probable cause to believe that a veterinarian, registered veterinary technician, veterinary assistant controlled substance permitholder, or veterinary premises registration holder has violated provisions of this chapter, the executive officer may issue a citation to the veterinarian, registered veterinary technician, veterinary assistant controlled substance permitholder, or veterinary premises registration holder in accordance with Section 125.9 and the board’s regulations established pursuant thereto. (Amended by Stats. 2025, Ch. 195, Sec. 29. (AB 1502) Effective January 1, 2026.)
  115. 4875.3.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Revocation and Suspension [4875 - 4887] ( Article 4 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. )

    Verify source ↗

    If the board finds a veterinary practice or related place is not meeting board standards, it must give notice of the deficiencies and a reasonable time to comply before taking further action. The board may also issue an interim suspension order if the violations pose an immediate threat to public and animal health and safety.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Revocation and Suspension [4875 - 4887] ( Article 4 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## 4875.3. If the board determines, as a result of its inspection of the premises pursuant to Section 4809.5, or any other place where veterinary medicine, veterinary dentistry, veterinary surgery, or the various branches thereof is practiced, or that is otherwise in the possession of a veterinarian for purpose of that practice, that it is not in compliance with the standards established by the board, the board shall provide a notice of any deficiencies and provide a reasonable time for compliance with those standards prior to commencing any further action pursuant to this article. The board may issue an interim suspension order pursuant to Section 494 in those cases where the violations represent an immediate threat to the public and animal health and safety. (Amended by Stats. 2023, Ch. 510, Sec. 58. (SB 887) Effective January 1, 2024.)
  116. 4875.4.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Revocation and Suspension [4875 - 4887] ( Article 4 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. )

    Verify source ↗

    The board must adopt regulations for assessing civil penalties under this article and must consider the violation’s gravity, the charged person’s good faith, and prior violations.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Revocation and Suspension [4875 - 4887] ( Article 4 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## 4875.4. (a) The board shall, in the manner prescribed in Section 4808, adopt regulations covering the assessment of civil penalties under this article which give due consideration to the appropriateness of the penalty with respect to the following factors: (1) The gravity of the violation, including, but not limited to, whether the violation is minor. (2) The good faith of the person being charged. (3) The history of previous violations. (b) In no event shall the civil penalty for each citation issued be assessed in an amount greater than five thousand dollars ($5,000). (c) Regulations adopted by the board shall be pursuant to the procedures for citations and fines in accordance with Section 125.9. (Amended by Stats. 2008, Ch. 529, Sec. 15. Effective January 1, 2009.)
  117. 4875.6.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Revocation and Suspension [4875 - 4887] ( Article 4 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. )

    Verify source ↗

    A cited person may ask for an informal conference, but must do so in writing within 30 days of the citation. The executive officer or designee must hold the conference within 60 days of receiving the request and send written reasons within 30 days after the conference. If the citation is affirmed or modified, the respondent may request a formal hearing within 30 days. A cited person may not request another informal conference after a citation has already been affirmed or modified following an informal conference.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Revocation and Suspension [4875 - 4887] ( Article 4 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## 4875.6. (a) In addition to requesting an administrative hearing as provided for in paragraph (4) of subdivision (b) of Section 125.9, the cited person may request an informal conference to review the acts shared in the citation. The cited person shall make the request for an informal conference in writing, within 30 days of the date of issuance of the citation, to the executive officer. (b) The executive officer or their designee shall hold, within 60 days from the receipt of the request, an informal conference with the cited person. The executive officer or their designee may extend the 60-day period for good cause. (c) Following the informal conference, the executive officer or their designee may affirm, modify, or dismiss the citation, including any fine that is levied, order of abatement, or order of correction issued. The executive officer or their designee shall state in writing the reasons for the action and transmit a copy of those findings to the cited person within 30 days after the informal conference. (d) If the citation, including any fine that is levied, order of abatement, or order of correction, is affirmed or modified following the informal conference, the respondent may make a request in writing to the executive officer within 30 days of the affirmed or modified citation, for a formal hearing, which shall be conducted as provided in paragraph (4) of subdivision (b) of Section 125.9. (e) A cited person shall not request an informal conference for a citation that has been affirmed or modified following an informal conference. (Repealed and added by Stats. 2021, Ch. 631, Sec. 39. (AB 1535) Effective January 1, 2022.)
  118. 4875.7.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Revocation and Suspension [4875 - 4887] ( Article 4 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. )

    Verify source ↗

    The executive officer may issue a citation to a person or entity, and unlicensed veterinary practice or offers to practice can trigger an administrative fine of $2,000 to $10,000 for each violation.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Revocation and Suspension [4875 - 4887] ( Article 4 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## 4875.7. (a) Notwithstanding paragraph (3) of subdivision (b) of Section 125.9 and Section 148, the executive officer may issue a citation to a person or entity, and that person or entity shall be subject to an administrative fine of no less than two thousand dollars ($2,000) and not exceeding ten thousand dollars ($10,000) for each violation of practicing or offering to practice veterinary medicine without a license, registration, or permit issued by the board pursuant to this chapter. The maximum fine for unlicensed activity is separate and not inclusive of fines for other violations. (b) Administrative fines collected pursuant to this section shall be deposited in accordance with Section 4903. (Added by Stats. 2025, Ch. 195, Sec. 30. (AB 1502) Effective January 1, 2026.)
  119. 488.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 1.5. DENIAL, SUSPENSION AND REVOCATION OF LICENSES [475 - 499] ( Division 1.5 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Denial of Licenses [480 - 489] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. )

    Verify source ↗

    The board may, after an applicant-requested hearing and unless another law says otherwise, grant a license, grant then immediately revoke it and impose probationary conditions, deny the license, or take another proper action on the license application.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 1.5. DENIAL, SUSPENSION AND REVOCATION OF LICENSES [475 - 499] ( Division 1.5 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Denial of Licenses [480 - 489] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. ) ## 488. (a) Except as otherwise provided by law, following a hearing requested by an applicant pursuant to subdivision (b) of Section 485, the board may take any of the following actions: (1) Grant the license effective upon completion of all licensing requirements by the applicant. (2) Grant the license effective upon completion of all licensing requirements by the applicant, immediately revoke the license, stay the revocation, and impose probationary conditions on the license, which may include suspension. (3) Deny the license. (4) Take other action in relation to denying or granting the license as the board in its discretion may deem proper. (b) This section does not in any way modify or otherwise affect the existing authority of the following entities in regard to licensure: (1) The State Athletic Commission. (2) The Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education. (3) The California Horse Racing Board. (c) This section shall become operative on July 1, 2020. (Repealed and added by Stats. 2018, Ch. 995, Sec. 11. (AB 2138) Effective January 1, 2019. Section operative July 1, 2020, by its own provisions.)
  120. 4882.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Revocation and Suspension [4875 - 4887] ( Article 4 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. )

    Verify source ↗

    The board must conduct proceedings under the referenced Government Code process, and licensees, registrants, or permitholders may settle an administrative action instead of starting those proceedings.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Revocation and Suspension [4875 - 4887] ( Article 4 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## 4882. (a) The proceedings under this article shall be conducted in accordance with Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 11500) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, and the board shall have the powers granted therein. (b) Notwithstanding subdivision (b) of Section 11415.60 of the Government Code, a licensee, registrant, or permitholder may enter into a settlement to resolve an administrative action, including through license, registration, or permit surrender, suspension or revocation, or placing the license, registration, or permit on probation, instead of a commencement of proceedings pursuant to Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 11500) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code. That settlement shall be subject to board approval or a counteroffer of terms of the settlement action. At any time prior to the issuance of a decision and order by the board adopting the settlement, the licensee, registrant, or permitholder may withdraw the settlement and request a commencement of proceedings pursuant to subdivision (a). The decision and order adopting the settlement shall be considered discipline and shall be posted on the board’s internet website. (Added by Stats. 2025, Ch. 195, Sec. 33. (AB 1502) Effective January 1, 2026.)
  121. 4883.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Revocation and Suspension [4875 - 4887] ( Article 4 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. )

    Verify source ↗

    The board may discipline veterinary licenses, registrations, or permits, including denial, revocation, suspension, probation, and fines, for the listed misconduct grounds.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Revocation and Suspension [4875 - 4887] ( Article 4 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## 4883. The board may deny, revoke, suspend, or place on probation a license, registration, or permit or assess a fine as provided in Section 4875 for any of the following: (a) Conviction of a crime substantially related to the qualifications, functions, or duties of veterinary medicine, surgery, or dentistry, in which case the record of the conviction shall be conclusive evidence. (b) For having professional connection with, or lending the licensee’s, registrant’s, or permitholder’s name to, any illegal practitioner of veterinary medicine and the various branches thereof. (c) Violation or attempting to violate, directly or indirectly, any of the provisions of this chapter. (d) Fraud or dishonesty in applying, treating, or reporting on tuberculin or other biological tests. (e) Employment of anyone but a veterinarian licensed in the state to demonstrate the use of biologics in the treatment of animals. (f) False or misleading advertising. (g) Unprofessional conduct, that includes, but is not limited to, the following: (1) Conviction of a charge of violating any federal statutes or rules or any statute or rule of this state regulating dangerous drugs or controlled substances. The record of the conviction is conclusive evidence thereof. A plea or verdict of guilty or a conviction following a plea of nolo contendere is deemed to be a conviction within the meaning of this section. The board may order the license, registration, or permit to be suspended or revoked, or assess a fine, or decline to issue a license, registration, or permit when the time for appeal has elapsed, or the judgment of conviction has been affirmed on appeal or when an order granting probation is made suspending the imposition of sentence, irrespective of a subsequent order under Section 1203.4, 1210.1, or 3063.1 of the Penal Code allowing the person to withdraw a plea of guilty and to enter a plea of not guilty, or setting aside the verdict of guilty, or dismissing the accusation, information, or indictment. (2) (A) The use of, or prescribing for or administering to oneself, any controlled substance. (B) The use of any of the dangerous drugs specified in Section 4022, or of alcoholic beverages to the extent, or in any manner as to be dangerous or injurious to a person issued a license, registration, or permit under this chapter, or to any other person or to the public, or to the extent that the use impairs the ability of the licensee, registrant, or permitholder to conduct with safety the practice authorized by the license, registration, or permit. (C) The conviction of more than one misdemeanor or any felony involving the use, consumption, or self-administration of any of the substances referred to in this section or any combination thereof, and the record of the conviction is conclusive evidence. A plea or verdict of guilty or a conviction following a plea of nolo contendere is deemed to be a conviction within the meaning of this section. The board may order the license, registration, or permit to be suspended or revoked or assess a fine, or may decline to issue a license, registration, or permit when the time for appeal has elapsed or the judgment of conviction has been affirmed on appeal or when an order granting probation is made suspending imposition of sentence, irrespective of a subsequent order under Section 1203.4, 1210.1, or 3063.1 of the Penal Code allowing the person to withdraw a plea of guilty and to enter a plea of not guilty, or setting aside the verdict of guilty, or dismissing the accusation, information, or indictment. (3) A violation of any federal statute, rule, or regulation or any of the statutes, rules, or regulations of this state regulating dangerous drugs, including antimicrobial drugs in animal feed, or controlled substances. (h) Failure to keep the licensee’s or registrant’s premises and all equipment therein in a clean and sanitary condition. (i) Fraud, deception, negligence, or incompetence in the practice of veterinary medicine. (j) Aiding or abetting in any acts that are in violation of any of the provisions of this chapter. (k) The employment of fraud, misrepresentation, or deception in obtaining the license, registration, or permit. (l) The revocation, suspension, or other discipline by another state or territory of a license, certificate, or registration to practice veterinary medicine or as a veterinary technician in that state or territory. (m) Cruelty to animals, conviction on a charge of cruelty to animals, or both. (n) Disciplinary action taken by any public agency in any state or territory for any act substantially related to the practice of veterinary medicine or the practice of a veterinary technician, or veterinary assistant controlled substance permitholder. (o) Violation, or the assisting or abetting violation, of any regulations adopted by the board pursuant to this chapter. (p) Accepting, soliciting, or offering any form of remuneration from or to a cannabis licensee if the veterinarian or the veterinarian’s immediate family have a financial interest with the cannabis licensee. For purposes of this subdivision, the following definitions shall apply: (1) “Cannabis licensee” shall have the same meaning as “licensee” in Section 26001. (2) “Financial interest” shall have the same meaning as in Section 650.01. (q) Discussing or recommending cannabis for use with a client while the veterinarian is employed by, or has an agreement with, a cannabis licensee. For purposes of this subdivision, “cannabis licensee” shall have the same meaning as “licensee” in Section 26001. (r) Distributing any form of advertising for cannabis in California. (s) Making any statement, claim, or advertisement that the licensee or registrant is a veterinary specialist or board certified unless they are certified by an American Veterinary Medical Association-Recognized Veterinary Specialty Organization or a National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America-Recognized Veterinary Specialty Organization. (t) Exercising control over, interfering with, or attempting to influence the professional judgment of another California-licensed veterinarian or registered veterinary technician through coercion, extortion, inducement, collusion, or intimidation through any means, including, but not limited to, compensation, in order to require the other California-licensed veterinarian or registered veterinary technician to perform veterinary services in a manner inconsistent with current veterinary medical practice in this state. (u) Performing a surgical claw removal, declawing, onychectomy, or a tendonectomy on any feline or otherwise altering a feline’s toes, claws, or paws to prevent or impair the normal function of the feline’s toes, claws, or paws for any reason other than a therapeutic purpose. (Amended by Stats. 2025, Ch. 479, Sec. 4.5. (AB 867) Effective January 1, 2026.)
  122. 4884.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Revocation and Suspension [4875 - 4887] ( Article 4 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. )

    Verify source ↗

    Veterinarians may not dispense or administer cannabis products to animal patients, and the board must adopt and post cannabis-related guidelines.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Revocation and Suspension [4875 - 4887] ( Article 4 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## 4884. (a) A licensee shall not dispense or administer cannabis or cannabis products to an animal patient. (b) Notwithstanding any other law and absent negligence or incompetence, a veterinarian licensed under this chapter shall not be disciplined by the board or have their license denied, revoked, or suspended solely for discussing or recommending the use of cannabis on an animal for potential therapeutic effect or health supplementation purposes. (c) On or before January 1, 2020, the board shall adopt guidelines for veterinarians to follow when discussing cannabis within the veterinarian-client-patient relationship. The board shall post the guidelines on its internet website. (d) By January 1, 2024, the board shall adopt guidelines for veterinarians to follow when recommending cannabis within the veterinarian-client-patient relationship. The board shall post the guidelines on its internet website. (Amended by Stats. 2022, Ch. 389, Sec. 2. (AB 1885) Effective January 1, 2023.)
  123. 4885.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Revocation and Suspension [4875 - 4887] ( Article 4 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. )

    Verify source ↗

    A veterinary medicine board conviction-related finding can trigger suspension, revocation, a fine, or refusal to issue a license, registration, or permit.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Revocation and Suspension [4875 - 4887] ( Article 4 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## 4885. A plea or verdict of guilty or a conviction following a plea of nolo contendere made to a charge of a felony or of any offense related to the practice of veterinary medicine is deemed to be a conviction within the meaning of this article. The board may order the license, registration, or permit to be suspended or revoked, or assess a fine as provided in Section 4883 or may decline to issue a license, registration, or permit when the time for appeal has elapsed, or the judgment of conviction has been affirmed on appeal or when an order granting probation is made suspending the imposition of sentence, irrespective of a subsequent order under the provisions of Section 1203.4, 1210.1, or 3063.1 of the Penal Code allowing that person to withdraw their plea of guilty and to enter a plea of not guilty, or setting aside the verdict of guilty, or dismissing the accusation, information, or indictment. (Amended by Stats. 2025, Ch. 195, Sec. 35. (AB 1502) Effective January 1, 2026.)
  124. 4886.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Revocation and Suspension [4875 - 4887] ( Article 4 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. )

    Verify source ↗

    When reinstating a revoked or suspended license, registration, or permit, the board may set post-reinstatement terms and conditions.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Revocation and Suspension [4875 - 4887] ( Article 4 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## 4886. In reinstating a license, registration, or permit that has been revoked or suspended under Section 4883, the board may impose terms and conditions to be followed by the licensee, registrant, or permitholder after the license, registration, or permit has been reinstated. The authority of the board to impose terms and conditions includes, but is not limited to, the following: (a) Requiring the licensee, registrant, or permitholder to obtain additional professional training and to pass an examination upon completion of the training. (b) Requiring the licensee, registrant, or permitholder to pass a verbal, written, practical, or clinical examination, or any combination of those examinations, to determine their present fitness to engage in the practice of veterinary medicine. (c) Requiring the licensee, registrant, or permitholder to submit to a complete diagnostic examination by one or more physicians appointed by the board. If the board requires the licensee, registrant, or permitholder to submit to that examination, the board shall receive and consider any other report of a complete diagnostic examination given by one or more physicians of the licensee’s, registrant’s, or permitholder’s choice. (d) Restricting or limiting the extent, scope, or type of practice of the licensee, registrant, or permitholder. (Amended by Stats. 2025, Ch. 195, Sec. 36. (AB 1502) Effective January 1, 2026.)
  125. 4887.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Revocation and Suspension [4875 - 4887] ( Article 4 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. )

    Verify source ↗

    A person with a revoked license/registration or probation may petition the board for reinstatement or penalty modification only after the required waiting period, and the petition must include specified supporting materials.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Revocation and Suspension [4875 - 4887] ( Article 4 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## 4887. (a) (1) A person whose license or registration has been revoked or who has been placed on probation may petition the board for reinstatement or modification of penalty including modification or termination of probation after the period as described below in subparagraphs (A) to (C), inclusive, has elapsed from the effective date of the decision ordering the disciplinary action. The petition shall state facts as required by the board. The period shall be as follows: (A) At least three years for reinstatement of a surrendered or revoked license. (B) At least two years for early termination or modification of probation of three years or more. (C) At least one year for modification of a condition or termination of probation of less than three years. (2) Notwithstanding paragraph (1), the board may, upon a showing of good cause, specify in a revocation order, a surrender order, or an order imposing probation of more than three years that the person may petition the board for reinstatement or modification or termination of probation after one year. (b) The petition shall be accompanied by both of the following: (1) At least two verified recommendations from veterinarians licensed by the board who have personal knowledge of the activities of the petitioner since the disciplinary penalty was imposed. (2) A full set of fingerprints for purposes of conducting a criminal history record check. (c) The petition shall be heard by the board. The board may consider all activities of the petitioner since the disciplinary action was taken, the offense for which the petitioner was disciplined, the petitioner’s activities since the license or registration was in good standing, and the petitioner’s rehabilitation efforts, general reputation for truth, and professional ability. The hearing may be continued from time to time as the board finds necessary. (d) The board reinstating the license or registration or modifying a penalty may impose terms and conditions as it determines necessary. To reinstate a revoked license or registration or to otherwise reduce a penalty or modify probation shall require a vote of five of the members of the board. (e) The petition shall not be considered while the petitioner is under sentence for any criminal offense, including any period during which the petitioner is on court-imposed probation or parole. The board may deny without a hearing or argument any petition filed pursuant to this section within a period of two years from the effective date of the prior decision following a hearing under this section. (Amended by Stats. 2025, Ch. 195, Sec. 37. (AB 1502) Effective January 1, 2026.)
  126. 489.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 1.5. DENIAL, SUSPENSION AND REVOCATION OF LICENSES [475 - 499] ( Division 1.5 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Denial of Licenses [480 - 489] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. )

    Verify source ↗

    A qualifying agency may deny a license application without a hearing if it previously denied the same applicant on the same ground within the last year, after the required Government Code proceedings.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 1.5. DENIAL, SUSPENSION AND REVOCATION OF LICENSES [475 - 499] ( Division 1.5 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. ) ## CHAPTER 2. Denial of Licenses [480 - 489] ( Chapter 2 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. ) ## 489. Any agency in the department which is authorized by law to deny an application for a license upon the grounds specified in Section 480 or 496, may without a hearing deny an application upon any of those grounds, if within one year previously, and after proceedings conducted in accordance with Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 11500) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, that agency has denied an application from the same applicant upon the same ground. (Amended by Stats. 1997, Ch. 758, Sec. 2.5. Effective January 1, 1998.)
  127. 490.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 1.5. DENIAL, SUSPENSION AND REVOCATION OF LICENSES [475 - 499] ( Division 1.5 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Suspension and Revocation of Licenses [490 - 494.6] ( Chapter 3 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. )

    Verify source ↗

    A board may suspend or revoke a license, and may otherwise discipline a licensee for a crime only when the crime is substantially related to the licensed business or profession.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 1.5. DENIAL, SUSPENSION AND REVOCATION OF LICENSES [475 - 499] ( Division 1.5 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Suspension and Revocation of Licenses [490 - 494.6] ( Chapter 3 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. ) ## 490. (a) In addition to any other action that a board is permitted to take against a licensee, a board may suspend or revoke a license on the ground that the licensee has been convicted of a crime, if the crime is substantially related to the qualifications, functions, or duties of the business or profession for which the license was issued. (b) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, a board may exercise any authority to discipline a licensee for conviction of a crime that is independent of the authority granted under subdivision (a) only if the crime is substantially related to the qualifications, functions, or duties of the business or profession for which the licensee’s license was issued. (c) A conviction within the meaning of this section means a plea or verdict of guilty or a conviction following a plea of nolo contendere. An action that a board is permitted to take following the establishment of a conviction may be taken when the time for appeal has elapsed, or the judgment of conviction has been affirmed on appeal, or when an order granting probation is made suspending the imposition of sentence, irrespective of a subsequent order under Section 1203.4 of the Penal Code. (d) The Legislature hereby finds and declares that the application of this section has been made unclear by the holding in Petropoulos v. Department of Real Estate (2006) 142 Cal.App.4th 554, and that the holding in that case has placed a significant number of statutes and regulations in question, resulting in potential harm to the consumers of California from licensees who have been convicted of crimes. Therefore, the Legislature finds and declares that this section establishes an independent basis for a board to impose discipline upon a licensee, and that the amendments to this section made by Chapter 33 of the Statutes of 2008 do not constitute a change to, but rather are declaratory of, existing law. (Amended by Stats. 2010, Ch. 328, Sec. 2. (SB 1330) Effective January 1, 2011.)
  128. 490.5.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 1.5. DENIAL, SUSPENSION AND REVOCATION OF LICENSES [475 - 499] ( Division 1.5 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Suspension and Revocation of Licenses [490 - 494.6] ( Chapter 3 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. )

    Verify source ↗

    A board may suspend a license if the licensee is not complying with a child support order or judgment, under Family Code Section 17520.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 1.5. DENIAL, SUSPENSION AND REVOCATION OF LICENSES [475 - 499] ( Division 1.5 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Suspension and Revocation of Licenses [490 - 494.6] ( Chapter 3 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. ) ## 490.5. A board may suspend a license pursuant to Section 17520 of the Family Code if a licensee is not in compliance with a child support order or judgment. (Amended by Stats. 2010, Ch. 328, Sec. 3. (SB 1330) Effective January 1, 2011.)
  129. 4900.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 5. Revenue [4900 - 4905] ( Article 5 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. )

    Verify source ↗

    Veterinary licenses, registrations, and permits expire unless renewed, and renewal requires an application, fee, and required statements.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 5. Revenue [4900 - 4905] ( Article 5 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## 4900. (a) All veterinary licenses, veterinary technician registrations, and veterinary assistant controlled substance permits, shall expire at 12 midnight of the last day of the month in which the license was issued during the second year of a two-year term if not renewed. (b) All premises registrations shall expire annually at 12 midnight of the last day of the month in which the license was issued, unless renewed. (c) To renew an unexpired license, registration, or permit, the licensee, registrant, or permitholder shall, on or before the date of expiration of the license or registration, apply for renewal on a form provided by the board, accompanied by the prescribed renewal fee. The renewal application shall contain a statement to the effect that the applicant has not been convicted of a felony or misdemeanor, has not been the subject of professional disciplinary action taken by any public agency in California or any other state or territory, and has not violated any of the provisions of this chapter. If the applicant is unable to make that statement, the application shall contain a statement of the conviction, professional discipline, or violation. (d) Each licensee, registrant, and permitholder who has an electronic mail address shall report to the board that electronic mail address during the time of renewal and confirm that the electronic mail address and address of record is current and valid. The electronic mail address shall be considered confidential and not subject to public disclosure. (Amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 631, Sec. 41. (AB 1535) Effective January 1, 2022.)
  130. 4901.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 5. Revenue [4900 - 4905] ( Article 5 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. )

    Verify source ↗

    Expired licenses or registrations may be renewed within five years if the renewal application and all unpaid fees are filed, and a delinquency fee is also required when renewal happens more than 30 days after expiration.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 5. Revenue [4900 - 4905] ( Article 5 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## 4901. Except as otherwise provided in this chapter, an expired license or registration may be renewed at any time within five years after its expiration on filing of an application for renewal on a form prescribed by the board, and payment of all accrued and unpaid renewal fees. If the license or registration is renewed more than 30 days after its expiration, the licensee or registrant, as a condition precedent to renewal, shall also pay the delinquency fee prescribed by this chapter. Renewal under this section shall be effective on the date on which the application is filed, on the date on which all renewal fees are paid, or on the date on which the delinquency fee, if any, is paid, whichever last occurs. If so renewed, the license or registration shall continue in effect through the expiration date provided in Section 4900 that next occurs after the effective date of the renewal, when it shall expire if it is not again renewed. (Amended by Stats. 2009, Ch. 80, Sec. 19. (AB 107) Effective January 1, 2010.)
  131. 4901.1.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 5. Revenue [4900 - 4905] ( Article 5 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. )

    Verify source ↗

    A suspended license or registration can expire, must be renewed under this chapter, and does not let the holder keep practicing while it remains suspended until reinstated.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 5. Revenue [4900 - 4905] ( Article 5 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## 4901.1. A license or registration that is suspended is subject to expiration, and shall be renewed as provided in this chapter, but that renewal does not entitle the licensee or registrant, while the license or registration remains suspended and until it is reinstated, to engage in the licensed or registered activity, or in any other activity in violation of the order or judgment by which the license or registration was suspended. (Amended by Stats. 2009, Ch. 80, Sec. 20. (AB 107) Effective January 1, 2010.)
  132. 4901.2.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 5. Revenue [4900 - 4905] ( Article 5 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. )

    Verify source ↗

    A revoked or surrendered license, registration, or permit cannot be renewed, and reinstatement requires payment of specified fees.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 5. Revenue [4900 - 4905] ( Article 5 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## 4901.2. (a) A revoked or surrendered license, registration, or permit is subject to expiration as provided in this article, but it shall not be renewed. If it is reinstated after its expiration, the licensee, registrant, or permitholder, as a condition precedent to reinstatement, shall pay a reinstatement fee in an amount equal to the renewal fee in effect on the last regular renewal date before the date on which it is reinstated plus the delinquency fee, if any, accrued at the time of its revocation. (b) If reinstatement fees, delinquency fees, or reimbursement of costs of prosecution and enforcement, as applicable, are not paid by a petitioner pursuant to Section 4887 within one year of the effective date of a decision reinstating the license, registration, or permit, the petition shall be deemed abandoned, and the license, registration, or permit shall not be reinstated as ordered by the decision. (Amended by Stats. 2025, Ch. 195, Sec. 38. (AB 1502) Effective January 1, 2026.)
  133. 4902.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 5. Revenue [4900 - 4905] ( Article 5 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. )

    Verify source ↗

    If a license, registration, or permit is not renewed within five years after it expires, it is canceled and cannot later be renewed or reinstated. The former holder may apply for a new credential as a new applicant if all requirements are met.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 5. Revenue [4900 - 4905] ( Article 5 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## 4902. A license, registration, or permit that is not renewed within five years after its expiration shall be canceled and shall not be renewed, restored, reissued, or reinstated thereafter, but the licensee, registrant, or permitholder may apply for and obtain a new license, registration, or permit if the person applies for a license, registration, or permit as a new applicant and meets all of the requirements for the license, registration, or permit. (Repealed and added by Stats. 2025, Ch. 195, Sec. 40. (AB 1502) Effective January 1, 2026.)
  134. 4903.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 5. Revenue [4900 - 4905] ( Article 5 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. )

    Verify source ↗

    Half of fines or bail forfeitures in chapter-violation cases must be paid to the State Treasurer for the California Veterinary Medical Board Contingent Fund.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 5. Revenue [4900 - 4905] ( Article 5 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## 4903. Of all fines or forfeitures of bail in any case where a person is charged with a violation of this chapter, 50 percent shall be paid upon collection by the proper officer of the court to the State Treasurer, to be deposited to the credit of the California Veterinary Medical Board Contingent Fund. The other 50 percent shall be paid as provided by law, for the payment of fines or forfeitures of bail in misdemeanor cases. (Amended by Stats. 2024, Ch. 497, Sec. 68. (SB 1526) Effective January 1, 2025.)
  135. 4904.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 5. Revenue [4900 - 4905] ( Article 5 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. )

    Verify source ↗

    Fees and other receipts related to the board must be reported monthly to the Controller, paid into the State Treasury, and credited to the California Veterinary Medical Board Contingent Fund.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 5. Revenue [4900 - 4905] ( Article 5 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## 4904. All fees collected on behalf of the board and all receipts of every kind and nature shall be reported each month for the month preceding to the Controller and at the same time the entire amount shall be paid into the State Treasury and shall be credited to the California Veterinary Medical Board Contingent Fund. The California Veterinary Medical Board Contingent Fund shall be available, upon appropriation by the Legislature, for the use of the board. (Amended by Stats. 2024, Ch. 497, Sec. 69. (SB 1526) Effective January 1, 2025.)
  136. 4905.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 5. Revenue [4900 - 4905] ( Article 5 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. )

    Verify source ↗

    This section defines small, medium, and large veterinary premises and sets maximum fees the board may collect for licenses, registrations, permits, renewals, and delinquency charges.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 5. Revenue [4900 - 4905] ( Article 5 added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## 4905. (a) For purposes of this section, the following definitions apply: (1) “Small veterinary premises” means a veterinary premises where up to three full-time equivalent veterinarians provide veterinary services. (2) “Medium veterinary premises” means a veterinary premises where four to eight full-time equivalent veterinarians provide veterinary services. (3) “Large veterinary premises” means a veterinary premises where nine or more full-time equivalent veterinarians provide veterinary services. (b) The following fees shall be collected by the board and shall be credited to the California Veterinary Medical Board Contingent Fund: (1) The veterinarian license application fee shall not exceed five hundred forty dollars ($540). (2) The California Veterinary Medicine Practice Act course fee shall not exceed one hundred fifty-five dollars ($155). (3) The initial veterinarian license fee shall not exceed eight hundred dollars ($800). (4) The biennial veterinarian license renewal fee shall not exceed eight hundred dollars ($800). (5) The university licensee application fee shall not exceed five hundred forty dollars ($540). (6) The initial university license fee shall not exceed eight hundred dollars ($800). (7) The biennial university licensee renewal fee shall not exceed eight hundred dollars ($800). (8) The initial small veterinary premises registration fee shall not exceed eight hundred forty dollars ($840) annually. (9) The annual small veterinary premises registration renewal fee shall not exceed nine hundred ten dollars ($910). (10) The initial medium veterinary premises registration fee shall not exceed one thousand one hundred twenty dollars ($1,120). (11) The annual medium veterinary premises registration renewal fee shall not exceed one thousand one hundred ninety dollars ($1,190). (12) The initial large veterinary premises registration fee shall not exceed one thousand six hundred seventy-five dollars ($1,675). (13) The annual large veterinary premises registration renewal fee shall not exceed one thousand seven hundred forty-five dollars ($1,745). (14) The registered veterinary technician application fee shall not exceed three hundred dollars ($300). (15) The initial registered veterinary technician registration fee shall not exceed three hundred dollars ($300). (16) The biennial registered veterinary technician renewal fee shall not exceed three hundred dollars ($300). (17) The veterinary assistant controlled substance permit application fee shall not exceed three hundred dollars ($300). (18) The veterinary assistant controlled substance permit fee shall not exceed three hundred dollars ($300). (19) The biennial veterinary assistant controlled substance permit renewal fee shall not exceed three hundred dollars ($300). (20) All license, registration, and permit delinquency fees shall be 50 percent of the renewal fee in effect on the date of the renewal, but shall not be less than fifty dollars ($50) nor more than one hundred fifty dollars ($150). (Amended by Stats. 2025, Ch. 195, Sec. 41. (AB 1502) Effective January 1, 2026.)
  137. 491.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 1.5. DENIAL, SUSPENSION AND REVOCATION OF LICENSES [475 - 499] ( Division 1.5 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Suspension and Revocation of Licenses [490 - 494.6] ( Chapter 3 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. )

    Verify source ↗

    If a board suspends or revokes a license under Section 490 grounds, it must send the ex-licensee copies of Government Code Section 11522 and the rehabilitation criteria under Section 482.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 1.5. DENIAL, SUSPENSION AND REVOCATION OF LICENSES [475 - 499] ( Division 1.5 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Suspension and Revocation of Licenses [490 - 494.6] ( Chapter 3 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. ) ## 491. Upon suspension or revocation of a license by a board on one or more of the grounds specified in Section 490, the board shall: (a) Send a copy of the provisions of Section 11522 of the Government Code to the ex-licensee. (b) Send a copy of the criteria relating to rehabilitation formulated under Section 482 to the ex-licensee. (Amended by Stats. 1975, Ch. 678.)
  138. 4910.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 6. Veterinary Corporations [4910 - 4917] ( Article 6 added by Stats. 1985, Ch. 1578, Sec. 1. )

    Verify source ↗

    A veterinary corporation must be authorized to provide professional services and stay in compliance with the stated corporate and professional rules.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 6. Veterinary Corporations [4910 - 4917] ( Article 6 added by Stats. 1985, Ch. 1578, Sec. 1. ) ## 4910. A veterinary corporation is a corporation that is authorized to render professional services, as defined in Section 13401 of the Corporations Code, so long as that corporation and its shareholders, officers, directors, and employees rendering professional services who are licensed veterinarians are in compliance with the Moscone-Knox Professional Corporation Act (Part 4 (commencing with Section 13400) of Division 3 of Title 1 of the Corporations Code), this article, and all other statutes and regulations pertaining to the corporation and the conduct of its affairs. With respect to a veterinary corporation, the governmental agency referred to in the Moscone-Knox Professional Corporation Act is the board. (Amended by Stats. 2024, Ch. 497, Sec. 71. (SB 1526) Effective January 1, 2025.)
  139. 4911.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 6. Veterinary Corporations [4910 - 4917] ( Article 6 added by Stats. 1985, Ch. 1578, Sec. 1. )

    Verify source ↗

    A veterinary corporation’s name, and any name it uses for professional services, must include “veterinary corporation” or wording or abbreviations showing corporate existence.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 6. Veterinary Corporations [4910 - 4917] ( Article 6 added by Stats. 1985, Ch. 1578, Sec. 1. ) ## 4911. Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the name of a veterinary corporation and any name or names under which it renders professional services shall include the words “veterinary corporation” or wording or abbreviations denoting corporate existence. (Added by Stats. 1985, Ch. 1578, Sec. 1.)
  140. 4912.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 6. Veterinary Corporations [4910 - 4917] ( Article 6 added by Stats. 1985, Ch. 1578, Sec. 1. )

    Verify source ↗

    Directors, shareholders, and officers of a veterinary corporation must be licensed persons, unless Section 13403 of the Corporations Code provides otherwise.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 6. Veterinary Corporations [4910 - 4917] ( Article 6 added by Stats. 1985, Ch. 1578, Sec. 1. ) ## 4912. Except as provided in Section 13403 of the Corporations Code, each director, shareholder, and officer of a veterinary corporation shall be a licensed person as defined in Section 13401 of the Corporations Code. (Added by Stats. 1985, Ch. 1578, Sec. 1.)
  141. 4913.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 6. Veterinary Corporations [4910 - 4917] ( Article 6 added by Stats. 1985, Ch. 1578, Sec. 1. )

    Verify source ↗

    Income from professional services in a veterinary corporation may not benefit a disqualified shareholder or that shareholder’s shares.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 6. Veterinary Corporations [4910 - 4917] ( Article 6 added by Stats. 1985, Ch. 1578, Sec. 1. ) ## 4913. The income of a veterinary corporation attributable to professional services rendered while a shareholder is a disqualified person (as defined in Section 13401 of the Corporations Code) shall not in any manner accrue to the benefit of that shareholder or his or her shares in the veterinary corporation. (Added by Stats. 1985, Ch. 1578, Sec. 1.)
  142. 4914.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 6. Veterinary Corporations [4910 - 4917] ( Article 6 added by Stats. 1985, Ch. 1578, Sec. 1. )

    Verify source ↗

    A veterinary corporation must not engage in conduct that would be unprofessional under any applicable statute, rule, or regulation, and must follow those laws and rules in its practice to the same extent as a licensed person under Section 4848.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 6. Veterinary Corporations [4910 - 4917] ( Article 6 added by Stats. 1985, Ch. 1578, Sec. 1. ) ## 4914. A veterinary corporation shall not do or fail to do any act the doing of which or the failure to do which would constitute unprofessional conduct under any statute, rule, or regulation now or hereafter in effect. In the conduct of its practice, it shall observe and be bound by such statutes, rules and regulations to the same extent as a person holding a license under Section 4848. (Added by Stats. 1985, Ch. 1578, Sec. 1.)
  143. 4915.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 6. Veterinary Corporations [4910 - 4917] ( Article 6 added by Stats. 1985, Ch. 1578, Sec. 1. )

    Verify source ↗

    Licensed persons under this chapter must not violate, attempt to violate, help violate, or conspire to violate the Moscone-Knox Professional Corporation Act, this article, or related regulations.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 6. Veterinary Corporations [4910 - 4917] ( Article 6 added by Stats. 1985, Ch. 1578, Sec. 1. ) ## 4915. It shall constitute unprofessional conduct and a violation of this chapter, punishable as specified in Section 4831, for any person licensed under this chapter to violate, attempt to violate, directly or indirectly, or assist in or abet the violation of, or conspire to violate, the Moscone-Knox Professional Corporation Act (Part 4 (commencing with Section 13400), of Division 3 of Title 1 of the Corporations Code), this article, or any regulation adopted pursuant to those provisions. (Added by Stats. 1985, Ch. 1578, Sec. 1.)
  144. 4916.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 6. Veterinary Corporations [4910 - 4917] ( Article 6 added by Stats. 1985, Ch. 1578, Sec. 1. )

    Verify source ↗

    The board may make and enforce rules for veterinary corporations, including rules about stock owned by disqualified or deceased persons and about insurance or other security for patient claims.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 6. Veterinary Corporations [4910 - 4917] ( Article 6 added by Stats. 1985, Ch. 1578, Sec. 1. ) ## 4916. The board may formulate and enforce rules and regulations to carry out the purposes and the objectives of this article, including rules and regulations requiring (1) that the articles of incorporation or bylaws of a veterinary corporation shall include a provision whereby the capital stock of the corporation owned by a disqualified person (as defined in Section 13401 of the Corporations Code), or a deceased person, shall be sold to the corporation or to the remaining shareholders of the corporation within such time as such rules and regulations may provide, and (2) that a veterinary corporation shall provide adequate security by insurance or otherwise for claims against it by its patients arising out of the rendering of professional services. (Added by Stats. 1985, Ch. 1578, Sec. 1.)
  145. 4917.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 6. Veterinary Corporations [4910 - 4917] ( Article 6 added by Stats. 1985, Ch. 1578, Sec. 1. )

    Verify source ↗

    Applicants for, and holders of, certain veterinary premises registration certificates do not have to be veterinary corporations.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 6. Veterinary Corporations [4910 - 4917] ( Article 6 added by Stats. 1985, Ch. 1578, Sec. 1. ) ## 4917. Nothing in this article requires an applicant for or a holder of a certificate of registration of veterinary premises described in Section 4853 to be a veterinary corporation. (Added by Stats. 1985, Ch. 1578, Sec. 1.)
  146. 492.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 1.5. DENIAL, SUSPENSION AND REVOCATION OF LICENSES [475 - 499] ( Division 1.5 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Suspension and Revocation of Licenses [490 - 494.6] ( Chapter 3 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. )

    Verify source ↗

    A completed diversion or alcohol/drug assessment program does not stop certain licensing agencies from disciplining a licensee or denying a license for professional misconduct.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 1.5. DENIAL, SUSPENSION AND REVOCATION OF LICENSES [475 - 499] ( Division 1.5 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Suspension and Revocation of Licenses [490 - 494.6] ( Chapter 3 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. ) ## 492. Notwithstanding any other provision of law, successful completion of any diversion program under the Penal Code, or successful completion of an alcohol and drug problem assessment program under Article 5 (commencing with Section 23249.50) of Chapter 12 of Division 11 of the Vehicle Code, shall not prohibit any agency established under Division 2 (commencing with Section 500) of this code, or any initiative act referred to in that division, from taking disciplinary action against a licensee or from denying a license for professional misconduct, notwithstanding that evidence of that misconduct may be recorded in a record pertaining to an arrest. This section shall not be construed to apply to any drug diversion program operated by any agency established under Division 2 (commencing with Section 500) of this code, or any initiative act referred to in that division. (Amended by Stats. 1994, Ch. 26, Sec. 15. Effective March 30, 1994.)
  147. 4920.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 7. Community Blood Banks for Animals [4920 - 4920.8] ( Article 7 added by Stats. 2021, Ch. 752, Sec. 4. )

    Verify source ↗

    This section defines key terms for animal blood bank rules.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 7. Community Blood Banks for Animals [4920 - 4920.8] ( Article 7 added by Stats. 2021, Ch. 752, Sec. 4. ) ## 4920. For the purposes of this article, the following definitions apply: (a) “Adverse event” means an event in which an animal is injured, sickened, rendered unconscious, or killed. (b) “Blood and blood component products” has the same meaning as in Section 9201 of the Food and Agricultural Code and means whole blood collected directly from a donor animal for transfusion or the blood components for transfusion, including packed red blood cells, platelet-rich plasma, platelet concentrates, fresh plasma, fresh frozen plasma, frozen plasma, cryoprecipitate, and cryosupernatant. Antibody products like hyperimmune serums are considered “biologics” and are excluded from this definition of blood and blood component products. (c) “Captive closed colony” means that an animal is kept, housed, or maintained in any way for the purpose of collecting its blood. (d) “Closed-colony blood bank” means a commercial blood bank for animals that produces animal blood or blood component products solely from animals held in a captive closed colony. (e) “Commercial blood bank for animals” means an establishment that produces animal blood or blood component products from captive closed-colony or community-sourced animals to market and sell for use in the cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of injury or disease in animals. (f) “Community blood bank” means a commercial blood bank for animals that produces animal blood or blood component products solely from community-sourced animals whose owners voluntarily consent to the donation. (g) “Community sourced” means that an animal is all of the following: (1) Kept, housed, and maintained at the residence of its owner who is a person and not a partnership, association, corporation, or limited liability company. (2) Brought by its owner to a community blood bank for animals to have its blood collected. (3) Licensed in accordance with any pet licensing required by the pet owner’s state, county, or city of residence. (h) “Production” means the collection of blood or the preparation, testing, processing, storage, or distribution of blood or blood component products for purpose of transfusion. (Added by Stats. 2021, Ch. 752, Sec. 4. (AB 1282) Effective January 1, 2022.)
  148. 4920.1.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 7. Community Blood Banks for Animals [4920 - 4920.8] ( Article 7 added by Stats. 2021, Ch. 752, Sec. 4. )

    Verify source ↗

    For liability under this article, producing and using certain animal blood products for injection or transfusion must be treated as a service, not a sale.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 7. Community Blood Banks for Animals [4920 - 4920.8] ( Article 7 added by Stats. 2021, Ch. 752, Sec. 4. ) ## 4920.1. For purposes of liability pursuant to this article, the production and use of whole blood, plasma, blood products, and blood derivatives for purposes of injecting or transfusing the same, or any of them, into an animal shall be construed to be, and is declared to be, the rendition of a service by each and every person, firm, or corporation participating therein, and shall not be construed to be, and is declared not to be, a sale of that whole blood, plasma, blood products, or blood derivatives. (Added by Stats. 2021, Ch. 752, Sec. 4. (AB 1282) Effective January 1, 2022.)
  149. 4920.2.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 7. Community Blood Banks for Animals [4920 - 4920.8] ( Article 7 added by Stats. 2021, Ch. 752, Sec. 4. )

    Verify source ↗

    Licensed California veterinarians who produce animal blood or blood components for their own practice or a community blood bank must follow listed safety, testing, recordkeeping, and consent requirements.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 7. Community Blood Banks for Animals [4920 - 4920.8] ( Article 7 added by Stats. 2021, Ch. 752, Sec. 4. ) ## 4920.2. Each veterinarian who is licensed in California and engages in the production of animal blood and blood component products solely for use in their own practice or for a community blood bank operating under this article shall meet all of the following conditions: (a) Follow current and best practices on community animal blood banking, which may include those developed pursuant to Section 9255 of the Food and Agricultural Code. (b) Operate under conditions, and use methods of production, that are consistent with current standards of care and practice for the field of veterinary transfusion medicine to ensure that the animal blood and blood component products will not be contaminated, dangerous, or harmful. (c) Ensure that the production of blood and blood component products is safe and not injurious to the donor animal’s health. (d) Follow, to the extent possible, the latest blood banking standards, which may include the latest published edition of the American Association of Blood Banks’ standards, and maintain responsibility over all veterinary and technical policies and procedures that relate to the safety of staff members and donor animals. (e) Utilize bloodborne pathogen testing for all canine and feline blood donors in accordance with the best clinical practices in the veterinary field, which may include the most recent Consensus Statement on blood donor infectious disease screening by the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine. (f) Ensure that the production of animal blood and blood component products complies with all applicable federal laws and regulations, including, but not limited to, Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 151) of Title 21 of the United States Code. (g) Maintain onsite records available for inspection by the board, including information documenting any history of blood draws or use of anesthesia on the animal, the number and date of donations collected, the estimated milliliters of blood collected per donation based on weight in grams, any adverse events, and any complaints from owners regarding animals who donate blood or blood component products. (h) Obtain the informed written consent of the owner of the animal blood donor and keep a record of that consent. (Amended by Stats. 2024, Ch. 497, Sec. 72. (SB 1526) Effective January 1, 2025.)
  150. 4920.3.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 7. Community Blood Banks for Animals [4920 - 4920.8] ( Article 7 added by Stats. 2021, Ch. 752, Sec. 4. )

    Verify source ↗

    Veterinarians and community blood banks under this article must not pay a person for providing an animal to donate blood or blood components, subject to a limited carve-out for certain animal-care fees.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 7. Community Blood Banks for Animals [4920 - 4920.8] ( Article 7 added by Stats. 2021, Ch. 752, Sec. 4. ) ## 4920.3. (a) A veterinarian or a community blood bank operating under this article shall not provide payment to a person who provides an animal for the purpose of donating that animal’s blood and blood component products for use in their practice or for retail sale and distribution. (b) For purposes of this section, “payment” means the transfer to any person of money or other valuable consideration that can be converted to money by the recipient. For purposes of this section, “payment” does not include fees for veterinary tests, medications, vaccinations, screenings, or other services that benefit the health of the animal from which the blood or blood component products were taken. (Added by Stats. 2021, Ch. 752, Sec. 4. (AB 1282) Effective January 1, 2022.)
  151. 4920.4.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 7. Community Blood Banks for Animals [4920 - 4920.8] ( Article 7 added by Stats. 2021, Ch. 752, Sec. 4. )

    Verify source ↗

    The board may set a community blood bank registration fee and annual renewal fee, and the fee cannot exceed the reasonable regulatory costs of administering, implementing, and enforcing this article.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 7. Community Blood Banks for Animals [4920 - 4920.8] ( Article 7 added by Stats. 2021, Ch. 752, Sec. 4. ) ## 4920.4. The board may establish a community blood bank registration fee and annual renewal fee to be paid by community blood banks to cover costs associated with oversight and inspection of the premises. The fee shall not exceed the reasonable regulatory costs of administering, implementing, and enforcing this article. (Amended by Stats. 2024, Ch. 497, Sec. 73. (SB 1526) Effective January 1, 2025.)
  152. 4920.5.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 7. Community Blood Banks for Animals [4920 - 4920.8] ( Article 7 added by Stats. 2021, Ch. 752, Sec. 4. )

    Verify source ↗

    A community blood bank operating under this article must comply with certain blood or blood component product registration requirements.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 7. Community Blood Banks for Animals [4920 - 4920.8] ( Article 7 added by Stats. 2021, Ch. 752, Sec. 4. ) ## 4920.5. A community blood bank operating under this article shall comply with blood or blood component product registration requirements under Article 5 (commencing with Section 9241) of Chapter 1.5 of Part 1 of Division 5 of the Food and Agricultural Code. (Added by Stats. 2021, Ch. 752, Sec. 4. (AB 1282) Effective January 1, 2022.)
  153. 4920.6.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 7. Community Blood Banks for Animals [4920 - 4920.8] ( Article 7 added by Stats. 2021, Ch. 752, Sec. 4. )

    Verify source ↗

    Community blood banks covered by this article must file a quarterly report with the Department of Food and Agriculture.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 7. Community Blood Banks for Animals [4920 - 4920.8] ( Article 7 added by Stats. 2021, Ch. 752, Sec. 4. ) ## 4920.6. A community blood bank operating under this article shall submit a quarterly report to the Department of Food and Agriculture every three months that includes all of the following information: (a) The number of donations from community-sourced animals and separate total amounts of whole blood, packed red blood cells, and fresh frozen plasma sold in California during that quarter, by species of animal in estimated milliliters based on weight in grams. (b) The number and species of animal donors experiencing adverse events, the total number of adverse events, and the nature of adverse events experienced by animals that donate blood. (c) The number and species of animal donors that have donated blood. (d) The number and species of animal donors whose blood tested positive for known pathogens, in accordance with the best clinical practices in the veterinary field, which may include the most recent Consensus Statement for blood donor infectious disease screening by the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine. (Added by Stats. 2021, Ch. 752, Sec. 4. (AB 1282) Effective January 1, 2022.)
  154. 4920.7.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 7. Community Blood Banks for Animals [4920 - 4920.8] ( Article 7 added by Stats. 2021, Ch. 752, Sec. 4. )

    Verify source ↗

    California-licensed veterinarians operating a closed-colony blood bank must comply with a referenced chapter of the Food and Agricultural Code.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 7. Community Blood Banks for Animals [4920 - 4920.8] ( Article 7 added by Stats. 2021, Ch. 752, Sec. 4. ) ## 4920.7. Each veterinarian who is licensed in California and operates a closed-colony blood bank shall comply with Chapter 1.5 (commencing with Section 9201) of Part 1 of Division 5 of the Food and Agricultural Code. (Added by Stats. 2021, Ch. 752, Sec. 4. (AB 1282) Effective January 1, 2022.)
  155. 4920.8.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 7. Community Blood Banks for Animals [4920 - 4920.8] ( Article 7 added by Stats. 2021, Ch. 752, Sec. 4. )

    Verify source ↗

    If a community blood bank violates this article, the board may take corrective action or impose license or registration consequences, including suspension, restriction, nonrenewal, or revocation.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 11. Veterinary Medicine [4800 - 4920.8] ( Chapter 11 repealed and added by Stats. 1937, Ch. 933. ) ## ARTICLE 7. Community Blood Banks for Animals [4920 - 4920.8] ( Article 7 added by Stats. 2021, Ch. 752, Sec. 4. ) ## 4920.8. A violation of this article by a community blood bank shall constitute a cause for corrective action, suspension, restriction, or the nonrenewal or revocation of a license or registration by the board pursuant to Article 4 (commencing with Section 4875). (Amended by Stats. 2024, Ch. 497, Sec. 74. (SB 1526) Effective January 1, 2025.)
  156. 4925.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 12. Acupuncture [4925 - 4979] ( Chapter 12 repealed (in Sec. 11) and added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## ARTICLE 1. Administration and General Provisions [4925 - 4934.2] ( Article 1 added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. )

    Verify source ↗

    This section renames certain acupuncture-related terms and states that the chapter is the acupuncture chapter of the Business and Professions Code, known as the Acupuncture Licensure Act.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 12. Acupuncture [4925 - 4979] ( Chapter 12 repealed (in Sec. 11) and added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## ARTICLE 1. Administration and General Provisions [4925 - 4934.2] ( Article 1 added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## 4925. (a) This chapter constitutes the chapter on acupuncture of the Business and Professions Code. This chapter shall be known and may be cited as the Acupuncture Licensure Act. Whenever a reference is made to the Acupuncture Licensure Act by the provisions of any statute, it is to be construed as referring to the provisions of this chapter. (b) Any reference in this chapter, or to the regulations pertaining thereto, to “certificate” or “certification” shall hereafter mean “license” or “licensure.” Any reference to the term “certifying” means “licensing,” and the term “certificate holder” means “licensee.” Any reference to the “Acupuncture Committee” or “committee” means the “Acupuncture Board” or “board.” (Amended by Stats. 1998, Ch. 991, Sec. 15. Effective January 1, 1999.)
  157. 4926.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 12. Acupuncture [4925 - 4979] ( Chapter 12 repealed (in Sec. 11) and added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## ARTICLE 1. Administration and General Provisions [4925 - 4934.2] ( Article 1 added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. )

    Verify source ↗

    This section says acupuncture is to be regulated as a primary health care profession and sets out a framework for Asian medicine through acupuncture.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 12. Acupuncture [4925 - 4979] ( Chapter 12 repealed (in Sec. 11) and added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## ARTICLE 1. Administration and General Provisions [4925 - 4934.2] ( Article 1 added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## 4926. In its concern with the need to eliminate the fundamental causes of illness, not simply to remove symptoms, and with the need to treat the whole person, the Legislature intends to establish in this article, a framework for the practice of the art and science of Asian medicine through acupuncture. The purpose of this article is to encourage the more effective utilization of the skills of acupuncturists by California citizens desiring a holistic approach to health and to remove the existing legal constraints which are an unnecessary hindrance to the more effective provision of health care services. Also, as it effects the public health, safety, and welfare, there is a necessity that individuals practicing acupuncture be subject to regulation and control as a primary health care profession. (Amended by Stats. 2005, Ch. 649, Sec. 4. Effective January 1, 2006.)
  158. 4927.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 12. Acupuncture [4925 - 4979] ( Chapter 12 repealed (in Sec. 11) and added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## ARTICLE 1. Administration and General Provisions [4925 - 4934.2] ( Article 1 added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. )

    Verify source ↗

    This section defines key acupuncture terms and sets supervision rules for acupuncture assistants.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 12. Acupuncture [4925 - 4979] ( Chapter 12 repealed (in Sec. 11) and added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## ARTICLE 1. Administration and General Provisions [4925 - 4934.2] ( Article 1 added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## 4927. As used in this chapter, unless the context otherwise requires: (a) “Board” means the Acupuncture Board. (b) “Person” means any individual, organization, or corporate body, except that only individuals may be licensed under this chapter. (c) “Acupuncturist” means an individual to whom a license has been issued to practice acupuncture pursuant to this chapter, which is in effect and is not suspended or revoked. (d) “Acupuncture” means the stimulation of a certain point or points on or near the surface of the body by the insertion of needles to prevent or modify the perception of pain or to normalize physiological functions, including pain control for the treatment of certain diseases or dysfunctions of the body, and includes the techniques of electroacupuncture, cupping, and moxibustion. (e) “Supervising acupuncturist” means a person who meets the following conditions: (1) Is licensed to practice acupuncture in this state and that license is current, valid, and has not been suspended or revoked or otherwise subject to formal disciplinary action, unless approved by the board. (2) Has practiced as a licensed acupuncturist in this state for at least five years. (3) Is in compliance with subdivision (j) of Section 4955. (f) (1) “Acupuncture assistant” means a person who, without a license, may perform basic supportive acupuncture procedures under the supervision and order of an acupuncturist. (2) The supervising acupuncturist shall be physically present and available in the place of practice during the performance of any ordered basic supportive acupuncture procedures. (3) The supervising acupuncturist engaging the services of an acupuncture assistant shall be responsible for the training and overall competency of the acupuncture assistant, including the ability to perform any specific basic supportive acupuncture service. (4) The supervising acupuncturist shall ensure the acupuncture assistant meets the following: (A) Is enrolled in an approved educational and training program and has completed at least a minimum of 700 hours of clinical practice or has completed an approved educational and training program. (B) Holds a certificate in Clean Needle Technique issued by the Council of Colleges of Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine, or its successor entity, or has completed an approved educational and training program’s Clean Needle Technique course using the Council of Colleges of Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine Clean Needle Technique, 7th edition, revised 1/2016. (g) (1) “Basic supportive acupuncture service” means any of the following: (A) Needle removal. (B) Cupping. (C) Moxibustion. (D) Gua sha. (E) Any other service listed under subdivision (b) of Section 4937. (2) “Basic supportive acupuncture service” does not include diagnosis, point location, needle insertion, electrical stimulation, rendering advice to patients, or any other procedure requiring a similar degree of judgment or skill. (Amended by Stats. 2024, Ch. 80, Sec. 6. (SB 1525) Effective January 1, 2025.)
  159. 4927.5.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 12. Acupuncture [4925 - 4979] ( Chapter 12 repealed (in Sec. 11) and added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## ARTICLE 1. Administration and General Provisions [4925 - 4934.2] ( Article 1 added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. )

    Verify source ↗

    This section defines when an acupuncture education program counts as an approved educational and training program and requires the board to review curricula and notify specified parties within 30 days.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 12. Acupuncture [4925 - 4979] ( Chapter 12 repealed (in Sec. 11) and added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## ARTICLE 1. Administration and General Provisions [4925 - 4934.2] ( Article 1 added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## 4927.5. (a) For purposes of this chapter, “approved educational and training program” means a school or college offering education and training in the practice of an acupuncturist that meets all of the following requirements: (1) Offers curriculum that includes at least 3,000 hours of which at least 2,050 hours are didactic and laboratory training, and at least 950 hours are supervised clinical instruction. Has submitted that curriculum to the board, and has received board approval of the curriculum. Any school or college offering education and training in the practice of acupuncture that was approved by the board prior to January 1, 2017, has not had its approval revoked, and has not changed its curriculum since receiving board approval, is deemed to have had its curriculum approved by the board for the purposes of this section. (2) Has received full institutional approval under Article 6 (commencing with Section 94885) of Chapter 8 of Part 59 of Division 10 of Title 3 of the Education Code in the field of traditional Asian medicine, or in the case of institutions located outside of this state, approval by the appropriate governmental educational authority using standards equivalent to those of Article 6 (commencing with Section 94885) of Chapter 8 of Part 59 of Division 10 of Title 3 of the Education Code. (3) Meets any of the following: (A) Is accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine, or its successor entity. (B) Has been granted preaccreditation status by the Accreditation Commission for Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine, or its successor entity. (C) Has submitted a letter of intent to pursue accreditation to the Accreditation Commission for Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine, or its successor entity within 30 days of receiving full institutional approval pursuant to paragraph (2), and is granted preaccreditation status within three years of the date that letter was submitted. (b) Within 30 days after receiving curriculum pursuant to paragraph (1), the board shall review the curriculum, determine whether the curriculum satisfies the requirements established by the board, and notify the school or college, the Accreditation Commission for Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine, or its successor entity, and the Bureau for Private and Postsecondary Education of whether the board has approved the curriculum. (Amended by Stats. 2023, Ch. 682, Sec. 2. (AB 1264) Effective January 1, 2024.)
  160. 4928.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 12. Acupuncture [4925 - 4979] ( Chapter 12 repealed (in Sec. 11) and added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## ARTICLE 1. Administration and General Provisions [4925 - 4934.2] ( Article 1 added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. )

    Verify source ↗

    The Acupuncture Board must enforce and administer this chapter.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 12. Acupuncture [4925 - 4979] ( Chapter 12 repealed (in Sec. 11) and added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## ARTICLE 1. Administration and General Provisions [4925 - 4934.2] ( Article 1 added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## 4928. (a) The Acupuncture Board, which consists of seven members, shall enforce and administer this chapter. (b) This section shall remain in effect until January 1, 2028, and as of that date is repealed. (Amended by Stats. 2023, Ch. 682, Sec. 3. (AB 1264) Effective January 1, 2024. Repealed as of January 1, 2028, by its own provisions.)
  161. 4928.1.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 12. Acupuncture [4925 - 4979] ( Chapter 12 repealed (in Sec. 11) and added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## ARTICLE 1. Administration and General Provisions [4925 - 4934.2] ( Article 1 added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. )

    Verify source ↗

    The repeal of Section 4928 makes the board subject to review by the Legislature’s appropriate policy committees.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 12. Acupuncture [4925 - 4979] ( Chapter 12 repealed (in Sec. 11) and added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## ARTICLE 1. Administration and General Provisions [4925 - 4934.2] ( Article 1 added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## 4928.1. Notwithstanding any other law, the repeal of Section 4928 renders the board subject to review by the appropriate policy committees of the Legislature. (Added by Stats. 2023, Ch. 682, Sec. 5. (AB 1264) Effective January 1, 2024.)
  162. 4928.2.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 12. Acupuncture [4925 - 4979] ( Chapter 12 repealed (in Sec. 11) and added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## ARTICLE 1. Administration and General Provisions [4925 - 4934.2] ( Article 1 added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. )

    Verify source ↗

    The Acupuncture Board must make public protection its highest priority when carrying out licensing, regulatory, and disciplinary functions.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 12. Acupuncture [4925 - 4979] ( Chapter 12 repealed (in Sec. 11) and added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## ARTICLE 1. Administration and General Provisions [4925 - 4934.2] ( Article 1 added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## 4928.2. Protection of the public shall be the highest priority for the Acupuncture Board in exercising its licensing, regulatory, and disciplinary functions. Whenever the protection of the public is inconsistent with other interests sought to be promoted, the protection of the public shall be paramount. (Added by renumbering Section 4928.1 by Stats. 2023, Ch. 682, Sec. 4. (AB 1264) Effective January 1, 2024.)
  163. 4929.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 12. Acupuncture [4925 - 4979] ( Chapter 12 repealed (in Sec. 11) and added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## ARTICLE 1. Administration and General Provisions [4925 - 4934.2] ( Article 1 added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. )

    Verify source ↗

    The board must include acupuncturists and public members, with specified appointment and confirmation rules.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 12. Acupuncture [4925 - 4979] ( Chapter 12 repealed (in Sec. 11) and added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## ARTICLE 1. Administration and General Provisions [4925 - 4934.2] ( Article 1 added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## 4929. Three members of the board shall be acupuncturists with at least five years of experience in acupuncture and four members shall be public members who do not hold a license or certificate as a physician and surgeon or acupuncturist. The acupuncturist members shall be appointed to represent a cross section of the cultural backgrounds of licensed members of the acupuncturist profession. The Governor shall appoint the three acupuncturist members and two of the public members. All members appointed to the board by the Governor shall be subject to confirmation by the Senate. The Senate Rules Committee and the Speaker of the Assembly shall each appoint a public member. Any member of the board may be removed by the appointing power for neglect of duty, misconduct, or malfeasance in office, after being provided with a written statement of the charges and an opportunity to be heard. (Amended by Stats. 2005, Ch. 659, Sec. 6. Effective January 1, 2006.)
  164. 493.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 1.5. DENIAL, SUSPENSION AND REVOCATION OF LICENSES [475 - 499] ( Division 1.5 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Suspension and Revocation of Licenses [490 - 494.6] ( Chapter 3 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. )

    Verify source ↗

    Boards handling license discipline must use the conviction record only as proof that the conviction happened, and they cannot automatically bar an applicant based only on the conviction type without considering rehabilitation.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 1.5. DENIAL, SUSPENSION AND REVOCATION OF LICENSES [475 - 499] ( Division 1.5 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Suspension and Revocation of Licenses [490 - 494.6] ( Chapter 3 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. ) ## 493. (a) Notwithstanding any other law, in a proceeding conducted by a board within the department pursuant to law to deny an application for a license or to suspend or revoke a license or otherwise take disciplinary action against a person who holds a license, upon the ground that the applicant or the licensee has been convicted of a crime substantially related to the qualifications, functions, and duties of the licensee in question, the record of conviction of the crime shall be conclusive evidence of the fact that the conviction occurred, but only of that fact. (b) (1) Criteria for determining whether a crime is substantially related to the qualifications, functions, or duties of the business or profession the board regulates shall include all of the following: (A) The nature and gravity of the offense. (B) The number of years elapsed since the date of the offense. (C) The nature and duties of the profession. (2) A board shall not categorically bar an applicant based solely on the type of conviction without considering evidence of rehabilitation. (c) As used in this section, “license” includes “certificate,” “permit,” “authority,” and “registration.” (d) This section does not in any way modify or otherwise affect the existing authority of the following entities in regard to licensure: (1) The State Athletic Commission. (2) The Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education. (3) The California Horse Racing Board. (e) This section shall become operative on July 1, 2020. (Repealed and added by Stats. 2018, Ch. 995, Sec. 13. (AB 2138) Effective January 1, 2019. Section operative July 1, 2020, by its own provisions.)
  165. 4930.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 12. Acupuncture [4925 - 4979] ( Chapter 12 repealed (in Sec. 11) and added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## ARTICLE 1. Administration and General Provisions [4925 - 4934.2] ( Article 1 added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. )

    Verify source ↗

    Each board member must be appointed for a four-year term.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 12. Acupuncture [4925 - 4979] ( Chapter 12 repealed (in Sec. 11) and added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## ARTICLE 1. Administration and General Provisions [4925 - 4934.2] ( Article 1 added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## 4930. Each member of the board shall be appointed for a term of four years. (Amended by Stats. 1999, Ch. 655, Sec. 59. Effective January 1, 2000.)
  166. 4931.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 12. Acupuncture [4925 - 4979] ( Chapter 12 repealed (in Sec. 11) and added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## ARTICLE 1. Administration and General Provisions [4925 - 4934.2] ( Article 1 added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. )

    Verify source ↗

    Each board member is to receive per diem and expenses under Section 103.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 12. Acupuncture [4925 - 4979] ( Chapter 12 repealed (in Sec. 11) and added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## ARTICLE 1. Administration and General Provisions [4925 - 4934.2] ( Article 1 added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## 4931. Each member of the board shall receive per diem and expenses as provided in Section 103. (Amended by Stats. 1999, Ch. 655, Sec. 60. Effective January 1, 2000.)
  167. 4933.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 12. Acupuncture [4925 - 4979] ( Chapter 12 repealed (in Sec. 11) and added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## ARTICLE 1. Administration and General Provisions [4925 - 4934.2] ( Article 1 added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. )

    Verify source ↗

    The board must administer this chapter and may make needed acupuncture regulations. Four board members, including at least one acupuncturist, make a quorum, and board action requires an affirmative majority vote of those present.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 12. Acupuncture [4925 - 4979] ( Chapter 12 repealed (in Sec. 11) and added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## ARTICLE 1. Administration and General Provisions [4925 - 4934.2] ( Article 1 added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## 4933. (a) The board shall administer this chapter. (b) The board may adopt, amend, or repeal, in accordance with the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code), regulations as may be necessary to enable it to carry into effect the provisions of law relating to the practice of acupuncture. (c) Four members of the board, including at least one acupuncturist, shall constitute a quorum to conduct business. (d) It shall require an affirmative vote of a majority of those present at a meeting of the board to take any action or pass any motion. (Amended by Stats. 2009, Ch. 307, Sec. 47. (SB 821) Effective January 1, 2010.)
  168. 4933.5.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 12. Acupuncture [4925 - 4979] ( Chapter 12 repealed (in Sec. 11) and added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## ARTICLE 1. Administration and General Provisions [4925 - 4934.2] ( Article 1 added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. )

    Verify source ↗

    The board may employ personnel needed to administer this chapter, but only with the director’s approval.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 12. Acupuncture [4925 - 4979] ( Chapter 12 repealed (in Sec. 11) and added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## ARTICLE 1. Administration and General Provisions [4925 - 4934.2] ( Article 1 added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## 4933.5. The board, by and with the approval of the director, may employ personnel necessary for the administration of this chapter. (Added by Stats. 2014, Ch. 397, Sec. 4. (SB 1246) Effective January 1, 2015.)
  169. 4934.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 12. Acupuncture [4925 - 4979] ( Chapter 12 repealed (in Sec. 11) and added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## ARTICLE 1. Administration and General Provisions [4925 - 4934.2] ( Article 1 added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. )

    Verify source ↗

    The board may appoint an executive officer with the director’s approval, and that executive officer is exempt from the State Civil Service Act.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 12. Acupuncture [4925 - 4979] ( Chapter 12 repealed (in Sec. 11) and added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## ARTICLE 1. Administration and General Provisions [4925 - 4934.2] ( Article 1 added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## 4934. (a) The board, by and with the approval of the director, may appoint an executive officer who is exempt from the State Civil Service Act (Part 2 (commencing with Section 18500) of Division 5 of Title 2 of the Government Code). (b) This section shall remain in effect until January 1, 2028, and as of that date is repealed. (Amended by Stats. 2023, Ch. 682, Sec. 6. (AB 1264) Effective January 1, 2024. Repealed as of January 1, 2028, by its own provisions.)
  170. 4934.1.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 12. Acupuncture [4925 - 4979] ( Chapter 12 repealed (in Sec. 11) and added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## ARTICLE 1. Administration and General Provisions [4925 - 4934.2] ( Article 1 added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. )

    Verify source ↗

    The Legislature asks a commission to review acupuncture-related topics and report its findings by September 1, 2004, and the board must pay the costs, with up to $250,000 appropriated for that purpose.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 12. Acupuncture [4925 - 4979] ( Chapter 12 repealed (in Sec. 11) and added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## ARTICLE 1. Administration and General Provisions [4925 - 4934.2] ( Article 1 added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## 4934.1. (a) The Legislature requests the Milton Marks “Little Hoover” Commission on California State Government Organization and Economy to conduct a comprehensive analysis consisting of the following reviews and evaluations and shall report their findings and recommendations to the Legislature by September 1, 2004: (1) Review and make recommendations on the scope of practice for acupuncturists. (2) Review and make recommendations on the educational requirements for acupuncturists. (3) Evaluate the national examination, administered by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine, and make recommendations as to whether or not the national examination should be offered in California in lieu of, or as part of, the state examination. (4) Evaluate and make recommendations on the approval process of the Accreditation Commission of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine, the approval process of the Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education, and the board’s approval process. (b) The board shall pay for all of the costs associated with the comprehensive analysis. An amount to pay for all of the costs associated with the comprehensive analysis, up to two hundred fifty thousand dollars ($250,000), is hereby appropriated to the board from the Acupuncture Fund. (Added by Stats. 2002, Ch. 714, Sec. 5. Effective January 1, 2003.)
  171. 4934.2.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 12. Acupuncture [4925 - 4979] ( Chapter 12 repealed (in Sec. 11) and added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## ARTICLE 1. Administration and General Provisions [4925 - 4934.2] ( Article 1 added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. )

    Verify source ↗

    The board must conduct studies and reviews and report its findings and recommendations by September 1, 2004.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 12. Acupuncture [4925 - 4979] ( Chapter 12 repealed (in Sec. 11) and added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## ARTICLE 1. Administration and General Provisions [4925 - 4934.2] ( Article 1 added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## 4934.2. The board shall conduct the following studies and reviews, and shall report its findings and recommendations to the department and the Joint Committee on Boards, Commissions, and Consumer Protection no later that September 1, 2004: (a) The board shall conduct a comprehensive study of the use of unlicensed acupuncture assistants and the need to license and regulate those assistants. (b) The board shall study and recommend ways to improve the frequency and consistency of their auditing and the quality and relevance of their courses. (Amended by Stats. 2004, Ch. 33, Sec. 20. Effective April 13, 2004.)
  172. 4935.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 12. Acupuncture [4925 - 4979] ( Chapter 12 repealed (in Sec. 11) and added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Certification Requirements [4935 - 4949] ( Article 2 added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. )

    Verify source ↗

    This section makes it a misdemeanor to practice acupuncture without a current valid license, to falsely hold out as practicing acupuncture, to fraudulently deal in acupuncture licenses, or to violate the chapter.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 12. Acupuncture [4925 - 4979] ( Chapter 12 repealed (in Sec. 11) and added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Certification Requirements [4935 - 4949] ( Article 2 added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## 4935. (a) (1) It is a misdemeanor, punishable by a fine of not less than one hundred dollars ($100) and not more than two thousand five hundred dollars ($2,500), or by imprisonment in a county jail not exceeding one year, or by both that fine and imprisonment, for any person who does not hold a current and valid license to practice acupuncture under this chapter or to advertise or otherwise represent that he or she is practicing or engaging in the practice of acupuncture. (2) It is a misdemeanor, punishable by a fine of not less than one hundred dollars ($100) and not more than two thousand five hundred dollars ($2,500), or by imprisonment in a county jail not exceeding one year, or by both that fine and imprisonment, for any person to fraudulently buy, sell, or obtain a license to practice acupuncture, or to violate the provisions of this chapter. (b) Notwithstanding any other law, any person, other than a physician and surgeon, a dentist, or a podiatrist, who is not licensed under this article but is licensed under Division 2 (commencing with Section 500), who practices acupuncture involving the application of a needle to the human body, performs any acupuncture technique or method involving the application of a needle to the human body, or directs, manages, or supervises another person in performing acupuncture involving the application of a needle to the human body is guilty of a misdemeanor. (c) A person advertises or otherwise represents that he or she is practicing or engaging in the practice of acupuncture by the use of any title or description of services incorporating the words “acupuncture,” “acupuncturist,” “certified acupuncturist,” “licensed acupuncturist,” “Asian medicine,” “oriental medicine,” or any combination of those words, phrases, or abbreviations of those words or phrases, or by representing that he or she is trained, experienced, an expert, or otherwise qualified to practice in the field of acupuncture, Asian medicine, oriental medicine, or any other complementary or integrative medicine that involves acupuncture and is associated with an Asian subgroup, including Chinese medicine, Japanese medicine, or Korean medicine. (d) Subdivision (a) shall not prohibit a person from administering acupuncture treatment as part of his or her educational training if the person is either of the following: (1) Engaged in a course or tutorial program in acupuncture, as provided in this chapter. (2) A graduate of an approved educational and training program and participating in a postgraduate review course that does not exceed one year in duration at an approved educational and training program. (Amended by Stats. 2018, Ch. 596, Sec. 4. (AB 3142) Effective January 1, 2019.)
  173. 4936.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 12. Acupuncture [4925 - 4979] ( Chapter 12 repealed (in Sec. 11) and added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Certification Requirements [4935 - 4949] ( Article 2 added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. )

    Verify source ↗

    An acupuncturist may not use “Doctor” or “Dr.” in acupuncture practice unless qualified by an authorizing license or an earned, related doctorate, and the title use must also identify the type of license or degree.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 12. Acupuncture [4925 - 4979] ( Chapter 12 repealed (in Sec. 11) and added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Certification Requirements [4935 - 4949] ( Article 2 added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## 4936. (a) It is unprofessional conduct for an acupuncturist to use the title “Doctor” or the abbreviation “Dr.” in connection with the practice of acupuncture unless he or she possesses a license that authorizes the use or possesses an earned doctorate degree from an accredited, approved, or authorized educational institution as set forth under Chapter 8 (commencing with Section 94800) of Part 59 of Division 10 of Title 3 of the Education Code, which is in acupuncture, oriental medicine, a biological science, or is otherwise related to the authorized practice of an acupuncturist as set forth in Sections 4927 and 4937. (b) The use of the title “Doctor” or the abbreviation “Dr.” by an acupuncturist as authorized in subdivision (a) without further indicating the type of license or degree which authorizes that use shall constitute unprofessional conduct. (Added by Stats. 2012, Ch. 326, Sec. 1. (SB 628) Effective January 1, 2013.)
  174. 4937.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 12. Acupuncture [4925 - 4979] ( Chapter 12 repealed (in Sec. 11) and added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Certification Requirements [4935 - 4949] ( Article 2 added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. )

    Verify source ↗

    A licensed acupuncturist may practice acupuncture and use or prescribe certain listed modalities to promote, maintain, and restore health.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 12. Acupuncture [4925 - 4979] ( Chapter 12 repealed (in Sec. 11) and added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Certification Requirements [4935 - 4949] ( Article 2 added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## 4937. An acupuncturist’s license authorizes the holder thereof: (a) To engage in the practice of acupuncture. (b) To perform or prescribe the use of Asian massage, acupressure, breathing techniques, exercise, heat, cold, magnets, nutrition, diet, herbs, plant, animal, and mineral products, and dietary supplements to promote, maintain, and restore health. Nothing in this section prohibits any person who does not possess an acupuncturist’s license or another license as a healing arts practitioner from performing, or prescribing the use of any modality listed in this subdivision. (c) For purposes of this section, a “magnet” means a mineral or metal that produces a magnetic field without the application of an electric current. (d) For purposes of this section, “plant, animal, and mineral products” means naturally occurring substances of plant, animal, or mineral origin, except that it does not include synthetic compounds, controlled substances or dangerous drugs as defined in Sections 4021 and 4022, or a controlled substance listed in Chapter 2 (commencing with Section 11053) of Division 10 of the Health and Safety Code. (e) For purposes of this section, “dietary supplement” has the same meaning as defined in subsection (ff) of Section 321 of Title 21 of the United States Code, except that dietary supplement does not include controlled substances or dangerous drugs as defined in Section 4021 or 4022, or a controlled substance listed in Chapter 2 (commencing with Section 11053) of Division 10 of the Health and Safety Code. (Amended by Stats. 2005, Ch. 649, Sec. 6. Effective January 1, 2006.)
  175. 4938.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 12. Acupuncture [4925 - 4979] ( Chapter 12 repealed (in Sec. 11) and added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Certification Requirements [4935 - 4949] ( Article 2 added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. )

    Verify source ↗

    The board must issue an acupuncture license to an applicant who applies and meets the stated requirements, and qualifying applicants must pay the initial licensure fee.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 12. Acupuncture [4925 - 4979] ( Chapter 12 repealed (in Sec. 11) and added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Certification Requirements [4935 - 4949] ( Article 2 added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## 4938. (a) The board shall issue a license to practice acupuncture to any person who makes an application and meets the following requirements: (1) Is at least 18 years of age. (2) Furnishes satisfactory evidence of completion of one of the following: (A) (i) An approved educational and training program. (ii) If an applicant began an educational and training program at a school or college that submitted a letter of intent to pursue accreditation to, or attained candidacy status from, the Accreditation Commission for Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine, or its successor entity, but the commission subsequently denied the school or college candidacy status or accreditation, respectively, the board may review and evaluate the educational training and clinical experience to determine whether to waive the requirements set forth in this subdivision with respect to that applicant. (B) Satisfactory completion of a tutorial program in the practice of an acupuncturist that is approved by the board. (C) In the case of an applicant who has completed education and training outside the United States, documented educational training and clinical experience that meets the standards established pursuant to Sections 4939 and 4941. (3) Passes a written examination administered by the board that tests the applicant’s ability, competency, and knowledge in the practice of an acupuncturist. The written examination shall be developed by the Office of Professional Examination Services of the Department of Consumer Affairs. (4) Is not subject to denial pursuant to Division 1.5 (commencing with Section 475). (5) Completes a clinical internship training program approved by the board. The clinical internship training program shall not exceed nine months in duration and shall be located in a clinic in this state that is an approved educational and training program. The length of the clinical internship shall depend upon the grades received in the examination and the clinical training already satisfactorily completed by the individual prior to taking the examination. The purpose of the clinical internship training program shall be to ensure a minimum level of clinical competence. (b) Each applicant who qualifies for a license shall pay, as a condition precedent to its issuance and in addition to other fees required, the initial licensure fee. (Amended by Stats. 2023, Ch. 682, Sec. 7. (AB 1264) Effective January 1, 2024.)
  176. 4939.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 12. Acupuncture [4925 - 4979] ( Chapter 12 repealed (in Sec. 11) and added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Certification Requirements [4935 - 4949] ( Article 2 added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. )

    Verify source ↗

    If an applicant studied outside the United States, the applicant must use a board-approved credential evaluation service and send the evaluation results to the board. The board must review the results, may offer extra education or testing if needed, and may not impose extra requirements that U.S.-educated applicants do not face.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 12. Acupuncture [4925 - 4979] ( Chapter 12 repealed (in Sec. 11) and added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Certification Requirements [4935 - 4949] ( Article 2 added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## 4939. (a) For purposes of this chapter, “approved credential evaluation service” means an agency or organization that is approved by the board to evaluate education completed outside the United States and identify the equivalency of that education to education completed within the United States. (b) If an applicant completes education outside of the United States, the applicant shall do both of the following: (1) Submit documentation of his or her education to a board-approved credential evaluation service for evaluation. (2) Have the results of the evaluation sent directly from the credential evaluation service to the board. (c) If the board receives the results of an applicant’s evaluation pursuant to subdivision (b), the board shall examine the results and determine whether the applicant meets requirements for licensure. If the evaluated education is not sufficient to meet the requirements for licensure, the board may offer the applicant additional education, training, or standardized testing to satisfy the educational requirements. The board shall not require the applicant to complete education, training, or testing that is not otherwise required of applicants who complete education or training within the United States. (d) The board shall establish, by regulation, an application process, criteria, and procedures for approval of credential evaluation services. The regulations shall, at a minimum, require the credential evaluation service to meet all of the following requirements: (1) Furnish evaluations written in English directly to the board. (2) Be a member of a nationally recognized foreign credential evaluation association, such as, but not limited to, the American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers or the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services. (3) Undergo reevaluation by the board every five years. (4) Certify to the board that the credential evaluation service maintains a complete set of reference materials as determined by the board. (5) Base evaluations only upon verified authentic, official transcripts, and degrees. (6) Have a written procedure for identifying fraudulent transcripts. (7) Include in an evaluation report submitted to the board the specific method or methods of authentication for the transcripts, certification, degrees, and other education evaluated for the purposes of the report. (8) Include in the evaluation report, for each degree held by the applicant, the equivalent degree offered in the United States, the date the degree was granted, the institution granting the degree, an English translation of the course titles, and the semester unit equivalence for each course. (9) Have an appeal procedure for applicants. (10) Provide information concerning the credential evaluation service to the board that includes, but is not limited to, resumes or curriculum vitae for each evaluator and translator, which includes biographical information, three letters of references from public or private agencies, statistical information on the number of applications processed annually for the past five years, and any other information the board may require to determine whether the credential evaluation service meets the standards under this subdivision and the board’s regulations. (11) Provide to the board all information required by the board, including, but not limited to, the following: (A) Its credential evaluation policy. (B) A complete list of terminology and evaluation terms used in producing its credential evaluations. (C) A detailed description of the specific methods utilized for credential authentication. (Repealed and added by Stats. 2016, Ch. 667, Sec. 6. (AB 2190) Effective January 1, 2017.)
  177. 494.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 1.5. DENIAL, SUSPENSION AND REVOCATION OF LICENSES [475 - 499] ( Division 1.5 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Suspension and Revocation of Licenses [490 - 494.6] ( Chapter 3 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. )

    Verify source ↗

    This section lets a board, or sometimes an administrative law judge, issue an interim license suspension or restriction order after a petition, but sets notice, hearing, and decision deadlines.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 1.5. DENIAL, SUSPENSION AND REVOCATION OF LICENSES [475 - 499] ( Division 1.5 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Suspension and Revocation of Licenses [490 - 494.6] ( Chapter 3 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. ) ## 494. (a) A board or an administrative law judge sitting alone, as provided in subdivision (h), may, upon petition, issue an interim order suspending any licentiate or imposing license restrictions, including, but not limited to, mandatory biological fluid testing, supervision, or remedial training. The petition shall include affidavits that demonstrate, to the satisfaction of the board, both of the following: (1) The licentiate has engaged in acts or omissions constituting a violation of this code or has been convicted of a crime substantially related to the licensed activity. (2) Permitting the licentiate to continue to engage in the licensed activity, or permitting the licentiate to continue in the licensed activity without restrictions, would endanger the public health, safety, or welfare. (b) No interim order provided for in this section shall be issued without notice to the licentiate unless it appears from the petition and supporting documents that serious injury would result to the public before the matter could be heard on notice. (c) Except as provided in subdivision (b), the licentiate shall be given at least 15 days’ notice of the hearing on the petition for an interim order. The notice shall include documents submitted to the board in support of the petition. If the order was initially issued without notice as provided in subdivision (b), the licentiate shall be entitled to a hearing on the petition within 20 days of the issuance of the interim order without notice. The licentiate shall be given notice of the hearing within two days after issuance of the initial interim order, and shall receive all documents in support of the petition. The failure of the board to provide a hearing within 20 days following the issuance of the interim order without notice, unless the licentiate waives his or her right to the hearing, shall result in the dissolution of the interim order by operation of law. (d) At the hearing on the petition for an interim order, the licentiate may: (1) Be represented by counsel. (2) Have a record made of the proceedings, copies of which shall be available to the licentiate upon payment of costs computed in accordance with the provisions for transcript costs for judicial review contained in Section 11523 of the Government Code. (3) Present affidavits and other documentary evidence. (4) Present oral argument. (e) The board, or an administrative law judge sitting alone as provided in subdivision (h), shall issue a decision on the petition for interim order within five business days following submission of the matter. The standard of proof required to obtain an interim order pursuant to this section shall be a preponderance of the evidence standard. If the interim order was previously issued without notice, the board shall determine whether the order shall remain in effect, be dissolved, or modified. (f) The board shall file an accusation within 15 days of the issuance of an interim order. In the case of an interim order issued without notice, the time shall run from the date of the order issued after the noticed hearing. If the licentiate files a Notice of Defense, the hearing shall be held within 30 days of the agency’s receipt of the Notice of Defense. A decision shall be rendered on the accusation no later than 30 days after submission of the matter. Failure to comply with any of the requirements in this subdivision shall dissolve the interim order by operation of law. (g) Interim orders shall be subject to judicial review pursuant to Section 1094.5 of the Code of Civil Procedure and shall be heard only in the superior court in and for the Counties of Sacramento, San Francisco, Los Angeles, or San Diego. The review of an interim order shall be limited to a determination of whether the board abused its discretion in the issuance of the interim order. Abuse of discretion is established if the respondent board has not proceeded in the manner required by law, or if the court determines that the interim order is not supported by substantial evidence in light of the whole record. (h) The board may, in its sole discretion, delegate the hearing on any petition for an interim order to an administrative law judge in the Office of Administrative Hearings. If the board hears the noticed petition itself, an administrative law judge shall preside at the hearing, rule on the admission and exclusion of evidence, and advise the board on matters of law. The board shall exercise all other powers relating to the conduct of the hearing but may delegate any or all of them to the administrative law judge. When the petition has been delegated to an administrative law judge, he or she shall sit alone and exercise all of the powers of the board relating to the conduct of the hearing. A decision issued by an administrative law judge sitting alone shall be final when it is filed with the board. If the administrative law judge issues an interim order without notice, he or she shall preside at the noticed hearing, unless unavailable, in which case another administrative law judge may hear the matter. The decision of the administrative law judge sitting alone on the petition for an interim order is final, subject only to judicial review in accordance with subdivision (g). (i) Failure to comply with an interim order issued pursuant to subdivision (a) or (b) shall constitute a separate cause for disciplinary action against any licentiate, and may be heard at, and as a part of, the noticed hearing provided for in subdivision (f). Allegations of noncompliance with the interim order may be filed at any time prior to the rendering of a decision on the accusation. Violation of the interim order is established upon proof that the licentiate was on notice of the interim order and its terms, and that the order was in effect at the time of the violation. The finding of a violation of an interim order made at the hearing on the accusation shall be reviewed as a part of any review of a final decision of the agency. If the interim order issued by the agency provides for anything less than a complete suspension of the licentiate from his or her business or profession, and the licentiate violates the interim order prior to the hearing on the accusation provided for in subdivision (f), the agency may, upon notice to the licentiate and proof of violation, modify or expand the interim order. (j) A plea or verdict of guilty or a conviction after a plea of nolo contendere is deemed to be a conviction within the meaning of this section. A certified record of the conviction shall be conclusive evidence of the fact that the conviction occurred. A board may take action under this section notwithstanding the fact that an appeal of the conviction may be taken. (k) The interim orders provided for by this section shall be in addition to, and not a limitation on, the authority to seek injunctive relief provided in any other provision of law. (l) In the case of a board, a petition for an interim order may be filed by the executive officer. In the case of a bureau or program, a petition may be filed by the chief or program administrator, as the case may be. (m) “Board,” as used in this section, shall include any agency described in Section 22, and any allied health agency within the jurisdiction of the Medical Board of California. Board shall also include the Osteopathic Medical Board of California and the State Board of Chiropractic Examiners. The provisions of this section shall not be applicable to the Medical Board of California, the Board of Podiatric Medicine, or the State Athletic Commission. (Amended by Stats. 1994, Ch. 1275, Sec. 4. Effective January 1, 1995.)
  178. 494.5.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 1.5. DENIAL, SUSPENSION AND REVOCATION OF LICENSES [475 - 499] ( Division 1.5 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Suspension and Revocation of Licenses [490 - 494.6] ( Chapter 3 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. )

    Verify source ↗

    State licensing entities must act against licenses tied to certified tax-delinquency lists, but affected people can get a temporary license or release if they qualify.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 1.5. DENIAL, SUSPENSION AND REVOCATION OF LICENSES [475 - 499] ( Division 1.5 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Suspension and Revocation of Licenses [490 - 494.6] ( Chapter 3 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. ) ## 494.5. (a) (1) Except as provided in paragraphs (2), (3), and (4), a state governmental licensing entity shall refuse to issue, reactivate, reinstate, or renew a license and shall suspend a license if a licensee’s name is included on a certified list. (2) The Department of Motor Vehicles shall suspend a license if a licensee’s name is included on a certified list. Any reference in this section to the issuance, reactivation, reinstatement, renewal, or denial of a license shall not apply to the Department of Motor Vehicles. (3) The State Bar of California may recommend to refuse to issue, reactivate, reinstate, or renew a license and may recommend to suspend a license if a licensee’s name is included on a certified list. The word “may” shall be substituted for the word “shall” relating to the issuance of a temporary license, refusal to issue, reactivate, reinstate, renew, or suspend a license in this section for licenses under the jurisdiction of the California Supreme Court. (4) The Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control may refuse to issue, reactivate, reinstate, or renew a license, and may suspend a license, if a licensee’s name is included on a certified list. (b) For purposes of this section: (1) “Certified list” means either the list provided by the State Board of Equalization or the list provided by the Franchise Tax Board of persons whose names appear on the lists of the 500 largest tax delinquencies pursuant to Section 7063 or 19195 of the Revenue and Taxation Code, as applicable. (2) “License” includes a certificate, registration, or any other authorization to engage in a profession or occupation issued by a state governmental licensing entity. “License” includes a driver’s license issued pursuant to Chapter 1 (commencing with Section 12500) of Division 6 of the Vehicle Code. “License” excludes a vehicle registration issued pursuant to Division 3 (commencing with Section 4000) of the Vehicle Code. (3) “Licensee” means an individual authorized by a license to drive a motor vehicle or authorized by a license, certificate, registration, or other authorization to engage in a profession or occupation issued by a state governmental licensing entity. (4) “State governmental licensing entity” means any entity listed in Section 101, 1000, or 19420, the office of the Attorney General, the Department of Insurance, the Department of Motor Vehicles, the State Bar of California, the Department of Real Estate, and any other state agency, board, or commission that issues a license, certificate, or registration authorizing an individual to engage in a profession or occupation, including any certificate, business or occupational license, or permit or license issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles or the Department of the California Highway Patrol. “State governmental licensing entity” shall not include the Contractors State License Board. (c) The State Board of Equalization and the Franchise Tax Board shall each submit its respective certified list to every state governmental licensing entity. The certified lists shall include the name, social security number or taxpayer identification number, and the last known address of the persons identified on the certified lists. (d) Notwithstanding any other law, each state governmental licensing entity shall collect the social security number or the federal taxpayer identification number from all applicants for the purposes of matching the names of the certified lists provided by the State Board of Equalization and the Franchise Tax Board to applicants and licensees. (e) (1) Each state governmental licensing entity shall determine whether an applicant or licensee is on the most recent certified list provided by the State Board of Equalization and the Franchise Tax Board. (2) If an applicant or licensee is on either of the certified lists, the state governmental licensing entity shall immediately provide a preliminary notice to the applicant or licensee of the entity’s intent to suspend or withhold issuance or renewal of the license. The preliminary notice shall be delivered personally or by mail to the applicant’s or licensee’s last known mailing address on file with the state governmental licensing entity within 30 days of receipt of the certified list. Service by mail shall be completed in accordance with Section 1013 of the Code of Civil Procedure. (A) The state governmental licensing entity shall issue a temporary license valid for a period of 90 days to any applicant whose name is on a certified list if the applicant is otherwise eligible for a license. (B) The 90-day time period for a temporary license shall not be extended. Only one temporary license shall be issued during a regular license term and the term of the temporary license shall coincide with the first 90 days of the regular license term. A license for the full term or the remainder of the license term may be issued or renewed only upon compliance with this section. (C) In the event that a license is suspended or an application for a license or the renewal of a license is denied pursuant to this section, any funds paid by the applicant or licensee shall not be refunded by the state governmental licensing entity. (f) (1) A state governmental licensing entity shall refuse to issue or shall suspend a license pursuant to this section no sooner than 90 days and no later than 120 days of the mailing of the preliminary notice described in paragraph (2) of subdivision (e), unless the state governmental licensing entity has received a release pursuant to subdivision (h). The procedures in the administrative adjudication provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 4.5 (commencing with Section 11400) and Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 11500) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code) shall not apply to the denial or suspension of, or refusal to renew, a license or the issuance of a temporary license pursuant to this section. (2) Notwithstanding any other law, if a board, bureau, or commission listed in Section 101, other than the Contractors State License Board, fails to take action in accordance with this section, the Department of Consumer Affairs shall issue a temporary license or suspend or refuse to issue, reactivate, reinstate, or renew a license, as appropriate. (g) Notices shall be developed by each state governmental licensing entity. For an applicant or licensee on the State Board of Equalization’s certified list, the notice shall include the address and telephone number of the State Board of Equalization, and shall emphasize the necessity of obtaining a release from the State Board of Equalization as a condition for the issuance, renewal, or continued valid status of a license or licenses. For an applicant or licensee on the Franchise Tax Board’s certified list, the notice shall include the address and telephone number of the Franchise Tax Board, and shall emphasize the necessity of obtaining a release from the Franchise Tax Board as a condition for the issuance, renewal, or continued valid status of a license or licenses. (1) The notice shall inform the applicant that the state governmental licensing entity shall issue a temporary license, as provided in subparagraph (A) of paragraph (2) of subdivision (e), for 90 calendar days if the applicant is otherwise eligible and that upon expiration of that time period, the license will be denied unless the state governmental licensing entity has received a release from the State Board of Equalization or the Franchise Tax Board, whichever is applicable. (2) The notice shall inform the licensee that any license suspended under this section will remain suspended until the state governmental licensing entity receives a release along with applications and fees, if applicable, to reinstate the license. (3) The notice shall also inform the applicant or licensee that if an application is denied or a license is suspended pursuant to this section, any moneys paid by the applicant or licensee shall not be refunded by the state governmental licensing entity. The state governmental licensing entity shall also develop a form that the applicant or licensee shall use to request a release by the State Board of Equalization or the Franchise Tax Board. A copy of this form shall be included with every notice sent pursuant to this subdivision. (h) If the applicant or licensee wishes to challenge the submission of their name on a certified list, the applicant or licensee shall make a timely written request for release to the State Board of Equalization or the Franchise Tax Board, whichever is applicable. The State Board of Equalization or the Franchise Tax Board shall immediately send a release to the appropriate state governmental licensing entity and the applicant or licensee, if any of the following conditions are met: (1) The applicant or licensee has complied with the tax obligation, either by payment of the unpaid taxes or entry into an installment payment agreement, as described in Section 6832 or 19008 of the Revenue and Taxation Code, to satisfy the unpaid taxes. (2) The applicant or licensee has submitted a request for release not later than 45 days after the applicant’s or licensee’s receipt of a preliminary notice described in paragraph (2) of subdivision (e), but the State Board of Equalization or the Franchise Tax Board, whichever is applicable, will be unable to complete the release review and send notice of its findings to the applicant or licensee and state governmental licensing entity within 45 days after the State Board of Equalization’s or the Franchise Tax Board’s receipt of the applicant’s or licensee’s request for release. Whenever a release is granted under this paragraph, and, notwithstanding that release, the applicable license or licenses have been suspended erroneously, the state governmental licensing entity shall reinstate the applicable licenses with retroactive effect back to the date of the erroneous suspension and that suspension shall not be reflected on any license record. (3) The applicant or licensee is unable to pay the outstanding tax obligation due to a current financial hardship. “Financial hardship” means financial hardship as determined by the State Board of Equalization or the Franchise Tax Board, whichever is applicable, where the applicant or licensee is unable to pay any part of the outstanding liability and the applicant or licensee is unable to qualify for an installment payment arrangement as provided for by Section 6832 or Section 19008 of the Revenue and Taxation Code. In order to establish the existence of a financial hardship, the applicant or licensee shall submit any information, including information related to reasonable business and personal expenses, requested by the State Board of Equalization or the Franchise Tax Board, whichever is applicable, for purposes of making that determination. (i) An applicant or licensee is required to act with diligence in responding to notices from the state governmental licensing entity and the State Board of Equalization or the Franchise Tax Board with the recognition that the temporary license will lapse or the license suspension will go into effect after 90 days and that the State Board of Equalization or the Franchise Tax Board must have time to act within that period. An applicant’s or licensee’s delay in acting, without good cause, which directly results in the inability of the State Board of Equalization or the Franchise Tax Board, whichever is applicable, to complete a review of the applicant’s or licensee’s request for release shall not constitute the diligence required under this section which would justify the issuance of a release. An applicant or licensee shall have the burden of establishing that they diligently responded to notices from the state governmental licensing entity or the State Board of Equalization or the Franchise Tax Board and that any delay was not without good cause. (j) The State Board of Equalization or the Franchise Tax Board shall create release forms for use pursuant to this section. When the applicant or licensee has complied with the tax obligation by payment of the unpaid taxes, or entry into an installment payment agreement, or establishing the existence of a current financial hardship as defined in paragraph (3) of subdivision (h), the State Board of Equalization or the Franchise Tax Board, whichever is applicable, shall mail a release form to the applicant or licensee and provide a release to the appropriate state governmental licensing entity. Any state governmental licensing entity that has received a release from the State Board of Equalization and the Franchise Tax Board pursuant to this subdivision shall process the release within five business days of its receipt. If the State Board of Equalization or the Franchise Tax Board determines subsequent to the issuance of a release that the licensee has not complied with their installment payment agreement, the State Board of Equalization or the Franchise Tax Board, whichever is applicable, shall notify the state governmental licensing entity and the licensee in a format prescribed by the State Board of Equalization or the Franchise Tax Board, whichever is applicable, that the licensee is not in compliance and the release shall be rescinded. The State Board of Equalization and the Franchise Tax Board may, when it is economically feasible for the state governmental licensing entity to develop an automated process for complying with this subdivision, notify the state governmental licensing entity in a manner prescribed by the State Board of Equalization or the Franchise Tax Board, whichever is applicable, that the licensee has not complied with the installment payment agreement. Upon receipt of this notice, the state governmental licensing entity shall immediately notify the licensee on a form prescribed by the state governmental licensing entity that the licensee’s license will be suspended on a specific date, and this date shall be no longer than 30 days from the date the form is mailed. The licensee shall be further notified that the license will remain suspended until a new release is issued in accordance with this subdivision. (k) The State Board of Equalization and the Franchise Tax Board may enter into interagency agreements with the state governmental licensing entities necessary to implement this section. (l) Notwithstanding any other law, a state governmental licensing entity, with the approval of the appropriate department director or governing body, may impose a fee on a licensee whose license has been suspended pursuant to this section. The fee shall not exceed the amount necessary for the state governmental licensing entity to cover its costs in carrying out the provisions of this section. Fees imposed pursuant to this section shall be deposited in the fund in which other fees imposed by the state governmental licensing entity are deposited and shall be available to that entity upon appropriation in the annual Budget Act. (m) The process described in subdivision (h) shall constitute the sole administrative remedy for contesting the issuance of a temporary license or the denial or suspension of a license under this section. (n) Any state governmental licensing entity receiving an inquiry as to the licensed status of an applicant or licensee who has had a license denied or suspended under this section or who has been granted a temporary license under this section shall respond that the license was denied or suspended or the temporary license was issued only because the licensee appeared on a list of the 500 largest tax delinquencies pursuant to Section 7063 or 19195 of the Revenue and Taxation Code. Information collected pursuant to this section by any state agency, board, or department shall be subject to the Information Practices Act of 1977 (Chapter 1 (commencing with Section 1798) of Title 1.8 of Part 4 of Division 3 of the Civil Code). Any state governmental licensing entity that discloses on its internet website or other publication that the licensee has had a license denied or suspended under this section or has been granted a temporary license under this section shall prominently disclose, in bold and adjacent to the information regarding the status of the license, that the only reason the license was denied, suspended, or temporarily issued is because the licensee failed to pay taxes. (o) Any rules and regulations issued pursuant to this section by any state agency, board, or department may be adopted as emergency regulations in accordance with the rulemaking provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 3.5 (commencing with Section 11340) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code). The adoption of these regulations shall be deemed an emergency and necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, and safety, or general welfare. The regulations shall become effective immediately upon filing with the Secretary of State. (p) The State Board of Equalization, the Franchise Tax Board, and state governmental licensing entities, as appropriate, shall adopt regulations as necessary to implement this section. (q) (1) Neither the state governmental licensing entity, nor any officer, employee, or agent, or former officer, employee, or agent of a state governmental licensing entity, may disclose or use any information obtained from the State Board of Equalization or the Franchise Tax Board, pursuant to this section, except to inform the public of the denial, refusal to renew, or suspension of a license or the issuance of a temporary license pursuant to this section. The release or other use of information received by a state governmental licensing entity pursuant to this section, except as authorized by this section, is punishable as a misdemeanor. This subdivision may not be interpreted to prevent the State Bar of California from filing a request with the Supreme Court of California to suspend a member of the bar pursuant to this section. (2) A suspension of, or refusal to renew, a license or issuance of a temporary license pursuant to this section does not constitute denial or discipline of a licensee for purposes of any reporting requirements to the National Practitioner Data Bank and shall not be reported to the National Practitioner Data Bank or the Healthcare Integrity and Protection Data Bank. (3) Upon release from the certified list, the suspension or revocation of the applicant’s or licensee’s license shall be purged from the state governmental licensing entity’s internet website or other publication within three business days. This paragraph shall not apply to the State Bar of California. (r) If any provision of this section or the application thereof to any person or circumstance is held invalid, that invalidity shall not affect other provisions or applications of this section that can be given effect without the invalid provision or application, and to this end the provisions of this section are severable. (s) All rights to review afforded by this section to an applicant shall also be afforded to a licensee. (t) Unless otherwise provided in this section, the policies, practices, and procedures of a state governmental licensing entity with respect to license suspensions under this section shall be the same as those applicable with respect to suspensions pursuant to Section 17520 of the Family Code. (u) No provision of this section shall be interpreted to allow a court to review and prevent the collection of taxes prior to the payment of those taxes in violation of the California Constitution. (v) This section shall apply to any licensee whose name appears on a list of the 500 largest tax delinquencies pursuant to Section 7063 or 19195 of the Revenue and Taxation Code on or after July 1, 2012. (Amended by Stats. 2020, Ch. 312, Sec. 9. (SB 1474) Effective January 1, 2021.)
  179. 494.6.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 1.5. DENIAL, SUSPENSION AND REVOCATION OF LICENSES [475 - 499] ( Division 1.5 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Suspension and Revocation of Licenses [490 - 494.6] ( Chapter 3 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. )

    Verify source ↗

    A business license may be suspended or revoked if the licensee was found to have violated Labor Code Section 244(b), and some Department of Consumer Affairs licensees may face agency discipline. Employers are protected from suspension or revocation for requiring an I-9 within three business days of the first workday for pay.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 1.5. DENIAL, SUSPENSION AND REVOCATION OF LICENSES [475 - 499] ( Division 1.5 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. ) ## CHAPTER 3. Suspension and Revocation of Licenses [490 - 494.6] ( Chapter 3 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. ) ## 494.6. (a) A business license regulated by this code may be subject to suspension or revocation if the licensee has been determined by the Labor Commissioner or the court to have violated subdivision (b) of Section 244 of the Labor Code and the court or Labor Commissioner has taken into consideration any harm such a suspension or revocation would cause to employees of the licensee, as well as the good faith efforts of the licensee to resolve any alleged violations after receiving notice. (b) Notwithstanding subdivision (a), a licensee of an agency within the Department of Consumer Affairs who has been found by the Labor Commissioner or the court to have violated subdivision (b) of Section 244 of the Labor Code may be subject to disciplinary action by his or her respective licensing agency. (c) An employer shall not be subject to suspension or revocation under this section for requiring a prospective or current employee to submit, within three business days of the first day of work for pay, an I-9 Employment Eligibility Verification form. (Amended by Stats. 2014, Ch. 71, Sec. 1. (SB 1304) Effective January 1, 2015.)
  180. 4940.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 12. Acupuncture [4925 - 4979] ( Chapter 12 repealed (in Sec. 11) and added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Certification Requirements [4935 - 4949] ( Article 2 added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. )

    Verify source ↗

    The board must set standards for acupuncture tutorial programs and supervising acupuncturists, and an acupuncturist may supervise a trainee only if specified conditions are met.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 12. Acupuncture [4925 - 4979] ( Chapter 12 repealed (in Sec. 11) and added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Certification Requirements [4935 - 4949] ( Article 2 added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## 4940. (a) The board shall establish standards for the approval of tutorial programs for education and training in the practice of acupuncture, that satisfy the requirements of Section 4938. The board shall also establish standards for the approved supervising acupuncturists. (b) An acupuncturist shall be approved to supervise a trainee, provided the supervisor meets the following conditions: (1) Is licensed to practice acupuncture in this state and that license is current, valid, and has not been suspended or revoked or otherwise subject to disciplinary action. (2) Has filed an application with the board. (3) Files with the board the name of each trainee to be trained or employed and a training program satisfactory to the board. (4) Does not train or employ more than two acupuncture trainees at any one time. (5) Has at least 10 years of experience practicing as an acupuncturist and has been licensed in this state for at least five years. (6) Is found by the board to have the knowledge necessary to educate and train the trainee in the practice of an acupuncturist. The amendments made to this section at the 1993 portion of the 1993–94 Regular Session of the Legislature shall not affect the approval of any supervising acupuncturist which has been issued prior to the effective date of those amendments. (Amended by Stats. 1999, Ch. 655, Sec. 64. Effective January 1, 2000.)
  181. 4941.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 12. Acupuncture [4925 - 4979] ( Chapter 12 repealed (in Sec. 11) and added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Certification Requirements [4935 - 4949] ( Article 2 added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. )

    Verify source ↗

    When reviewing licensure applications based on a tutorial program in acupuncture, the board may give credit for relevant prior training and experience if it meets the board’s standards.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 12. Acupuncture [4925 - 4979] ( Chapter 12 repealed (in Sec. 11) and added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Certification Requirements [4935 - 4949] ( Article 2 added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## 4941. In reviewing applications for licensure based upon the completion of a tutorial program in acupuncture, the board may provide that credit is granted for relevant prior training and experience when that training or experience otherwise meets the standards set by the board. (Amended by Stats. 1999, Ch. 655, Sec. 65. Effective January 1, 2000.)
  182. 4944.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 12. Acupuncture [4925 - 4979] ( Chapter 12 repealed (in Sec. 11) and added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Certification Requirements [4935 - 4949] ( Article 2 added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. )

    Verify source ↗

    The board can investigate and evaluate acupuncture license applicants and school or college approval applications, and it can delegate routine matters.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 12. Acupuncture [4925 - 4979] ( Chapter 12 repealed (in Sec. 11) and added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Certification Requirements [4935 - 4949] ( Article 2 added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## 4944. (a) The board shall have the authority to investigate and evaluate each and every applicant applying for a license to practice acupuncture and to make the final determination of the admission of the applicant to the examination, or for the issuance of a license, in conformance with the provisions of this chapter. (b) The board shall investigate and evaluate each school or college applying for approval under Section 4939 and may utilize and contract with consultants to evaluate those training programs. This subdivision shall become inoperative on January 1, 2017. (c) The board may delegate to the executive officer or other official of the board its authority under this section in routine matters. (Amended by Stats. 2014, Ch. 397, Sec. 10. (SB 1246) Effective January 1, 2015.)
  183. 4945.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 12. Acupuncture [4925 - 4979] ( Chapter 12 repealed (in Sec. 11) and added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Certification Requirements [4935 - 4949] ( Article 2 added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. )

    Verify source ↗

    The board sets continuing-education standards for acupuncturists, and acupuncturists must complete 50 hours every two years to renew their license.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 12. Acupuncture [4925 - 4979] ( Chapter 12 repealed (in Sec. 11) and added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Certification Requirements [4935 - 4949] ( Article 2 added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## 4945. (a) The board shall establish standards for continuing education for acupuncturists. (b) The board shall require each acupuncturist to complete 50 hours of continuing education every two years as a condition for renewal of his or her license. No more than five hours of continuing education in each two-year period may be spent on issues unrelated to clinical matters or the actual provision of health care to patients. A provider of continuing education shall apply to the board for approval to offer continuing education courses for credit toward this requirement on a form developed by the board, shall pay a fee covering the cost of approval and for the monitoring of the provider by the board and shall set forth the following information on the application: (1) Course content. (2) Test criteria. (3) Hours of continuing education credit requested for the course. (4) Experience and training of instructors. (5) Other information as required by the board. (6) That interpreters or bilingual instruction will be made available, when necessary. (c) Licensees residing out of state or out of the country shall comply with the continuing education requirements. (d) Providers of continuing education shall be monitored by the board as determined by the board. (e) If the board determines that any acupuncturist has not obtained the required number of hours of continuing education, it may renew the acupuncturist’s license and require that the deficient hours of continuing education be made up during the following renewal period in addition to the current continuing education required for that period. If any acupuncturist fails to make up the deficient hours and complete the current requirement of hours of continuing education during the subsequent renewal period, then his or her license to practice acupuncture shall not be renewed until all the required hours are completed and documented to the board. (Amended (as amended by Stats. 2000, Ch. 568) by Stats. 2005, Ch. 648, Sec. 1. Effective January 1, 2006.)
  184. 4947.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 12. Acupuncture [4925 - 4979] ( Chapter 12 repealed (in Sec. 11) and added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Certification Requirements [4935 - 4949] ( Article 2 added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. )

    Verify source ↗

    Dentists and podiatrists may practice acupuncture within their license scope if they have taken acupuncture instruction; the course material must be approved by the relevant licensing board.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 12. Acupuncture [4925 - 4979] ( Chapter 12 repealed (in Sec. 11) and added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Certification Requirements [4935 - 4949] ( Article 2 added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## 4947. (a) Nothing in this chapter shall be construed to prevent the practice of acupuncture by a person licensed as a dentist or a podiatrist, within the scope of their respective licenses, if the licensee has received a course of instruction in acupuncture. This course material shall be approved by the licensing board having jurisdiction over the licensee. The board shall assist the licensing boards in providing information as requested by the individual licensing boards. (b) The course requirement set forth in subdivision (a) shall not apply to a podiatrist or dentist who has completed a course in acupuncture, including a continuing education course, and has utilized acupuncture prior to July 1, 1982. (Amended by Stats. 1999, Ch. 655, Sec. 68. Effective January 1, 2000.)
  185. 4948.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 12. Acupuncture [4925 - 4979] ( Chapter 12 repealed (in Sec. 11) and added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Certification Requirements [4935 - 4949] ( Article 2 added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. )

    Verify source ↗

    Research activities covered by Section 2075 are not made unlawful by this chapter.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 12. Acupuncture [4925 - 4979] ( Chapter 12 repealed (in Sec. 11) and added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Certification Requirements [4935 - 4949] ( Article 2 added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## 4948. The provisions of this chapter shall not be construed to make unlawful the activities of persons involved in research pursuant to Section 2075. (Repealed and added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. Section operative July 1, 1982, pursuant to former Section 4974.5.)
  186. 4949.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 12. Acupuncture [4925 - 4979] ( Chapter 12 repealed (in Sec. 11) and added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Certification Requirements [4935 - 4949] ( Article 2 added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. )

    Verify source ↗

    A guest acupuncturist from another state or country may do professional education activities, and may do acupuncture only in connection with those activities for up to six months; the person may not open an office, set up a patient meeting place, receive patient calls, or otherwise practice acupuncture outside that limit.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 12. Acupuncture [4925 - 4979] ( Chapter 12 repealed (in Sec. 11) and added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## ARTICLE 2. Certification Requirements [4935 - 4949] ( Article 2 added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## 4949. The provisions of this chapter shall not prohibit an acupuncturist from another state or country, who is not a licensed acupuncturist in this state, who is the invited guest of a professional acupuncture association or scientific acupuncture foundation, an approved educational and training program, or a continuing education provider that is approved under Section 4945, solely from engaging in professional education through lectures, clinics, or demonstrations. The guest acupuncturist may engage in the practice of acupuncture in conjunction with these lectures, clinics, or demonstrations for a maximum of six months, but may not open an office or appoint a place to meet patients or receive calls from patients or otherwise engage in the practice of acupuncture. (Amended by Stats. 2014, Ch. 397, Sec. 11. (SB 1246) Effective January 1, 2015.)
  187. 495.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 1.5. DENIAL, SUSPENSION AND REVOCATION OF LICENSES [475 - 499] ( Division 1.5 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. ) ## CHAPTER 4. Public Reprovals [495- 495.] ( Chapter 4 added by Stats. 1977, Ch. 886. )

    Verify source ↗

    Certain licensing authorities may publicly reprove a licentiate or certificate holder for conduct that could justify suspension or revocation.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 1.5. DENIAL, SUSPENSION AND REVOCATION OF LICENSES [475 - 499] ( Division 1.5 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. ) ## CHAPTER 4. Public Reprovals [495- 495.] ( Chapter 4 added by Stats. 1977, Ch. 886. ) ## 495. Notwithstanding any other provision of law, any entity authorized to issue a license or certificate pursuant to this code may publicly reprove a licentiate or certificate holder thereof, for any act that would constitute grounds to suspend or revoke a license or certificate. Any proceedings for public reproval, public reproval and suspension, or public reproval and revocation shall be conducted in accordance with Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 11500) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code, or, in the case of a licensee or certificate holder under the jurisdiction of the State Department of Health Services, in accordance with Section 100171 of the Health and Safety Code. (Amended by Stats. 1997, Ch. 220, Sec. 2. Effective August 4, 1997.)
  188. 4955.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 12. Acupuncture [4925 - 4979] ( Chapter 12 repealed (in Sec. 11) and added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Enforcement [4955 - 4964] ( Article 4 added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. )

    Verify source ↗

    The board may discipline an acupuncturist’s license for unprofessional conduct, including denial, suspension, revocation, or probationary conditions.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 12. Acupuncture [4925 - 4979] ( Chapter 12 repealed (in Sec. 11) and added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Enforcement [4955 - 4964] ( Article 4 added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## 4955. The board may deny, suspend, or revoke, or impose probationary conditions upon, the license of any acupuncturist who is guilty of unprofessional conduct. Unprofessional conduct shall include, but not be limited to, the following: (a) Using or possessing any controlled substance, as defined in Division 10 (commencing with Section 11000) of the Health and Safety Code, dangerous drug, or alcoholic beverage to an extent or in a manner dangerous to the acupuncturist, or to any other person, or to the public, and to an extent that the use impairs the acupuncturist’s ability to engage in the practice of acupuncture with safety to the public. (b) Conviction of a crime substantially related to the qualifications, functions, or duties of an acupuncturist, the record of conviction being conclusive evidence thereof. (c) False or misleading advertising. (d) Aiding or abetting in, or violating or conspiring in, directly or indirectly, the violation of the terms of this chapter or any regulation adopted by the board pursuant to this chapter. (e) Except for good cause, the knowing failure to protect patients by failing to follow infection control guidelines of the board, thereby risking transmission of blood-borne infectious diseases from licensee to patient, from patient to patient, and from patient to licensee. In administering this subdivision, the board shall consider referencing the standards, regulations, and guidelines of the State Department of Public Health developed pursuant to Section 1250.11 of the Health and Safety Code and the standards, regulations, and guidelines pursuant to the California Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1973 (Part 1 (commencing with Section 6300) of Division 5 of the Labor Code) for preventing the transmission of HIV, hepatitis B, and other blood-borne pathogens in health care settings. As necessary, the board shall consult with healing arts boards within this division, including, but not limited to, the Medical Board of California, the California Board of Podiatric Medicine, the Dental Board of California, the Board of Registered Nursing, and the Board of Vocational Nursing and Psychiatric Technicians, to encourage appropriate consistency in the implementation of this subdivision. The board shall seek to ensure that licensees are informed of the responsibility of licensees and others to follow infection control guidelines, and of the most recent scientifically recognized safeguards for minimizing the risk of transmission of blood-borne infectious diseases. (f) The use of threats or harassment against any patient or licensee for providing evidence in a disciplinary action, other legal action, or in an investigation contemplating a disciplinary action or other legal action. (g) Discharging an employee primarily for attempting to comply with the terms of this chapter. (h) Disciplinary action taken by any public agency for any act substantially related to the qualifications, functions, or duties of an acupuncturist or any professional health care licensee. (i) Any action or conduct that would have warranted the denial of the acupuncture license. (j) The violation of any law or local ordinance on an acupuncturist’s business premises by an acupuncturist’s employee or a person who is working under the acupuncturist’s professional license or business permit, that is substantially related to the qualifications, functions, or duties of an acupuncturist. These violations shall subject the acupuncturist who employed the individuals, or under whose acupuncturist license the employee is working, to disciplinary action. (k) The abandonment of a patient by the licensee without written notice to the patient that treatment is to be discontinued and before the patient has had a reasonable opportunity to secure the services of another practitioner. (l) The failure to notify the board of the use of any false, assumed, or fictitious name other than the name under which the licensee is licensed as an individual to practice acupuncture. (Amended by Stats. 2018, Ch. 596, Sec. 6. (AB 3142) Effective January 1, 2019.)
  189. 4955.1.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 12. Acupuncture [4925 - 4979] ( Chapter 12 repealed (in Sec. 11) and added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Enforcement [4955 - 4964] ( Article 4 added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. )

    Verify source ↗

    The board may discipline an acupuncturist’s license by denying, suspending, revoking, or adding probationary conditions if the acupuncturist committed a fraudulent act.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 12. Acupuncture [4925 - 4979] ( Chapter 12 repealed (in Sec. 11) and added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Enforcement [4955 - 4964] ( Article 4 added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## 4955.1. The board may deny, suspend, revoke, or impose probationary conditions upon the license of any acupuncturist if he or she is guilty of committing a fraudulent act including, but not be limited to, any of the following: (a) Securing a license by fraud or deceit. (b) Committing a fraudulent or dishonest act as an acupuncturist. (c) Committing any act involving dishonesty or corruption with respect to the qualifications, functions, or duties of an acupuncturist. (d) Altering or modifying the medical record of any person, with fraudulent intent, or creating any false medical record. (e) Failing to maintain adequate and accurate records relating to the provision of services to their patients. (Added by Stats. 2002, Ch. 714, Sec. 9. Effective January 1, 2003.)
  190. 4955.2.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 12. Acupuncture [4925 - 4979] ( Chapter 12 repealed (in Sec. 11) and added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Enforcement [4955 - 4964] ( Article 4 added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. )

    Verify source ↗

    The board may discipline an acupuncturist’s license by denying, suspending, revoking, or placing it on probation if the acupuncturist committed gross negligence, repeated negligent acts, or incompetence.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 12. Acupuncture [4925 - 4979] ( Chapter 12 repealed (in Sec. 11) and added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Enforcement [4955 - 4964] ( Article 4 added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## 4955.2. The board may deny, suspend, revoke, or impose probationary conditions upon the license of any acupuncturist if he or she is guilty of committing any one of the following: (a) Gross negligence. (b) Repeated negligent acts. (c) Incompetence. (Added by Stats. 2002, Ch. 714, Sec. 10. Effective January 1, 2003.)
  191. 4956.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 12. Acupuncture [4925 - 4979] ( Chapter 12 repealed (in Sec. 11) and added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Enforcement [4955 - 4964] ( Article 4 added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. )

    Verify source ↗

    Certain guilty pleas or convictions count as a conviction under this chapter, and the board may discipline a license because of it.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 12. Acupuncture [4925 - 4979] ( Chapter 12 repealed (in Sec. 11) and added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Enforcement [4955 - 4964] ( Article 4 added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## 4956. A plea or verdict of guilty or a conviction following a plea of nolo contendere made to a charge which is substantially related to the qualifications, functions, or duties of an acupuncturist is deemed to be a conviction within the meaning of this chapter. The board may order a license suspended or revoked, or may deny a license, or may impose probationary conditions upon a license, when the time for appeal has elapsed, or the judgment of conviction has been affirmed on appeal, or when an order granting probation is made suspending the imposition of sentence irrespective of a subsequent order under the provisions of Section 1203.4 of the Penal Code allowing the person to withdraw his or her pleas of guilty and to enter a plea of not guilty, or setting aside the verdict of guilty, or dismissing the accusation, complaint, information, or indictment. (Amended by Stats. 1999, Ch. 655, Sec. 70. Effective January 1, 2000.)
  192. 4959.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 12. Acupuncture [4925 - 4979] ( Chapter 12 repealed (in Sec. 11) and added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Enforcement [4955 - 4964] ( Article 4 added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. )

    Verify source ↗

    The board can ask an administrative law judge to order a disciplined licensee to pay investigation and prosecution costs, but the assessed costs cannot be increased by the board.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 12. Acupuncture [4925 - 4979] ( Chapter 12 repealed (in Sec. 11) and added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Enforcement [4955 - 4964] ( Article 4 added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## 4959. (a) The board may request the administrative law judge, under his or her proposed decision in resolution of a disciplinary proceeding before the board, to direct any licensee found guilty of unprofessional conduct to pay to the board a sum not to exceed actual and reasonable costs of the investigation and prosecution of the case. (b) The costs to be assessed shall be fixed by the administrative law judge and shall not in any event be increased by the board. When the board does not adopt a proposed decision and remands the case to an administrative law judge, the administrative law judge shall not increase the amount of any costs assessed in the proposed decision. (c) When the payment directed in the board’s order for payment of costs is not made by the licensee, the board may enforce the order for payment in the superior court in the county where the administrative hearing was held. This right of enforcement shall be in addition to any other rights the board may have as to any licensee directed to pay costs. (d) In any judicial action for the recovery of costs, proof of the board’s decision shall be conclusive proof of the validity of the order of payment and the terms for payment. (e) All costs recovered under this section shall be considered a reimbursement for costs incurred and shall be deposited in the Acupuncture Fund. (Amended by Stats. 1999, Ch. 655, Sec. 71. Effective January 1, 2000.)
  193. 496.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 1.5. DENIAL, SUSPENSION AND REVOCATION OF LICENSES [475 - 499] ( Division 1.5 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. ) ## CHAPTER 5. Examination Security [496 - 499] ( Chapter 5 added by Stats. 1983, Ch. 95, Sec. 2. )

    Verify source ↗

    A board may deny, suspend, revoke, or otherwise restrict a license if an applicant or licensee violated Section 123 about subverting licensing examinations.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 1.5. DENIAL, SUSPENSION AND REVOCATION OF LICENSES [475 - 499] ( Division 1.5 added by Stats. 1972, Ch. 903. ) ## CHAPTER 5. Examination Security [496 - 499] ( Chapter 5 added by Stats. 1983, Ch. 95, Sec. 2. ) ## 496. A board may deny, suspend, revoke, or otherwise restrict a license on the ground that an applicant or licensee has violated Section 123 pertaining to subversion of licensing examinations. (Repealed and added by Stats. 1989, Ch. 1022, Sec. 3.)
  194. 4960.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 12. Acupuncture [4925 - 4979] ( Chapter 12 repealed (in Sec. 11) and added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Enforcement [4955 - 4964] ( Article 4 added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. )

    Verify source ↗

    Disciplinary proceedings under this article must follow the Administrative Procedure Act.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 12. Acupuncture [4925 - 4979] ( Chapter 12 repealed (in Sec. 11) and added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Enforcement [4955 - 4964] ( Article 4 added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## 4960. Disciplinary proceedings under this article shall be conducted pursuant to the Administrative Procedure Act (Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 11500) of Part 1 of Division 3 of Title 2 of the Government Code). (Repealed and added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. Section operative July 1, 1982, pursuant to former Section 4974.5.)
  195. 4960.2.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 12. Acupuncture [4925 - 4979] ( Chapter 12 repealed (in Sec. 11) and added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Enforcement [4955 - 4964] ( Article 4 added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. )

    Verify source ↗

    When an acupuncturist’s license is revoked, the board must certify the revocation under the board’s seal to the relevant city or county business licensing entity.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 12. Acupuncture [4925 - 4979] ( Chapter 12 repealed (in Sec. 11) and added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Enforcement [4955 - 4964] ( Article 4 added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## 4960.2. The board in all cases of revocation shall certify the fact of the revocation, under the seal of the board, to the business licensing entity of the cities or counties in which the license of the acupuncturist has been revoked. The record of the revocation made by the county or city clerk shall be sufficient evidence of the revocation, and of the regularity of all proceedings of the board in the matter of the revocation. (Added by Stats. 2002, Ch. 714, Sec. 11. Effective January 1, 2003.)
  196. 4960.5.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 12. Acupuncture [4925 - 4979] ( Chapter 12 repealed (in Sec. 11) and added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Enforcement [4955 - 4964] ( Article 4 added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. )

    Verify source ↗

    Certain disciplined licensees or registrants may ask the board to reinstate or change the penalty after waiting the required minimum time; the board may also require an examination.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 12. Acupuncture [4925 - 4979] ( Chapter 12 repealed (in Sec. 11) and added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Enforcement [4955 - 4964] ( Article 4 added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## 4960.5. (a) A person whose license or registration has been revoked, suspended, or surrendered, or who has been placed on probation, may petition the board for reinstatement or modification of penalty, including modification or termination of probation, after a period of not less than the following minimum periods has elapsed from the effective date of the decision ordering that disciplinary action: (1) At least three years for reinstatement of a license revoked or surrendered. (2) At least two years for early termination of probation of three years or more. (3) At least two years for modification of a condition of probation. (4) At least one year for early termination of probation of less than three years. (b) The board may require an examination for that reinstatement. (c) Notwithstanding Section 489, a person whose application for a license or registration has been denied by the board, for violations of Division 1.5 (commencing with Section 475) of this chapter, may reapply to the board for a license or registration only after a period of three years has elapsed from the date of the denial. (Amended by Stats. 1999, Ch. 655, Sec. 72. Effective January 1, 2000.)
  197. 4961.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 12. Acupuncture [4925 - 4979] ( Chapter 12 repealed (in Sec. 11) and added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Enforcement [4955 - 4964] ( Article 4 added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. )

    Verify source ↗

    Acupuncture licensees must register each place of practice, obtain and post wall licenses, keep pocket licenses available when treating outside the practice location, and update the board within 30 days after new or changed practice locations.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 12. Acupuncture [4925 - 4979] ( Chapter 12 repealed (in Sec. 11) and added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Enforcement [4955 - 4964] ( Article 4 added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## 4961. (a) (1) Every person who is licensed to practice acupuncture in this state shall register, on forms prescribed by the board that may include an application for an initial license or for renewal of a license, each place of practice and apply to the board to obtain a wall license for each place of practice. (2) A wall license shall be renewed biennially, coinciding with the license renewal date. A licensee with a wall license issued before January 1, 2021, shall not be required to apply for a new wall license until the licensee’s next license renewal date. (3) If the licensee has no place of practice, the licensee shall notify the board of that fact on a form prescribed by the board. A wall license is not required to be posted when a licensee performs acupuncture treatments outside of the licensee’s place of practice. However, the licensee shall carry a pocket license during treatments outside of the licensee’s place of practice and make the pocket license available upon request. (4) A licensee shall register each place of practice within 30 days after the date of the licensee being licensed by the board or the establishment of a new place of practice, whichever occurs first. (b) (1) An acupuncturist licensee shall post a wall license issued by the board to the licensee in a conspicuous location in each place of practice at all times. (2) If an acupuncturist licensee has more than one place of practice, the licensee shall obtain from the board a separate wall license for each additional location and post the assigned wall license at each location. (c) A licensed acupuncturist shall not display any acupuncture wall license that is not currently active and valid. (d) (1) If a licensee changes the location of a place of practice, the licensee shall apply for the change of location within 30 days of changing the licensee’s place of practice on forms prescribed by the board. (2) If a licensee fails to apply for a new wall license with the board due to a change of location within the time prescribed by this subdivision, the board may deny renewal of the license. (e) (1) A wall license is nontransferable. (2) Any change to the registered location in connection with the wall license, such as moving, requires a new wall license, and the former wall license shall be returned to the board with a request for cancellation. (3) The licensee shall apply to the board to obtain a new wall license using the forms prescribed by the board for the new wall license or change of location. (f) (1) An acupuncturist shall be responsible for the acupuncture or any other practice specified under Section 4937 rendered pursuant to the license of the acupuncturist in each place of practice maintained by the acupuncturist. (2) An acupuncturist maintaining more than one place of practice shall ensure that each place of practice is in compliance with the standards of practice requirements of this chapter. (g) As used in this section: (1) “Place of practice” means an acupuncture office where any act of acupuncture is practiced and includes a place of practice in which the applicant holds a proprietary interest of any nature whatsoever or in which the licensee holds any right to participate in the management or control thereof. (2) “Wall license” means an official document that is issued by the board upon application for a place of practice and has a unique identification number that is specific to the location provided by the licensee in the application. (Amended by Stats. 2023, Ch. 682, Sec. 8. (AB 1264) Effective January 1, 2024.)
  198. 4961.1.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 12. Acupuncture [4925 - 4979] ( Chapter 12 repealed (in Sec. 11) and added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Enforcement [4955 - 4964] ( Article 4 added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. )

    Verify source ↗

    On complaint, the board or its designee may inspect certain acupuncture premises and records, and acupuncturists must provide copies of those records immediately on request.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 12. Acupuncture [4925 - 4979] ( Chapter 12 repealed (in Sec. 11) and added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Enforcement [4955 - 4964] ( Article 4 added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## 4961.1. (a) The board, or its designee, may, upon complaint, inspect any of the following: (1) Any premise in which acupuncture services, as defined in Section 4937, are provided or reasonably suspected of being provided. (2) Any place of practice registered with the board for which a wall license has been issued pursuant to Section 4961. (3) Any clinic owned and operated by a school with an approved educational and training program, as defined in Section 4927.5. (4) Any premise in which acupuncture services, as defined in Section 4937, are provided under a tutorial program, as defined in Section 4940. (b) All records required by law to be kept by an acupuncturist subject to this chapter, including, but not limited to, records pertaining to the provision of services to patients, shall be open to inspection by the board, or its designee, during an investigation initiated in response to a complaint that a licensee has violated any law or regulation that constitutes grounds for disciplinary action or issuance of a citation and fine by the board. A copy of all those records shall be provided to the board immediately upon request. (c) Nothing in this section shall be construed to grant the board jurisdiction over the practice of medicine. (Added by Stats. 2023, Ch. 682, Sec. 9. (AB 1264) Effective January 1, 2024.)
  199. 4962.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 12. Acupuncture [4925 - 4979] ( Chapter 12 repealed (in Sec. 11) and added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Enforcement [4955 - 4964] ( Article 4 added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. )

    Verify source ↗

    The board must require probation disclosures to be given to patients before the first visit after a probationary order, and the licensee must obtain a signed copy, unless an exception applies.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 12. Acupuncture [4925 - 4979] ( Chapter 12 repealed (in Sec. 11) and added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Enforcement [4955 - 4964] ( Article 4 added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## 4962. (a) On and after July 1, 2019, except as otherwise provided in subdivision (c), the board shall require a licensee to provide a separate disclosure that includes the licensee’s probation status, the length of the probation, the probation end date, all practice restrictions placed on the licensee by the board, the board’s telephone number, and an explanation of how the patient can find further information on the licensee’s probation on the licensee’s profile page on the board’s online license information Internet Web site, to a patient or the patient’s guardian or health care surrogate before the patient’s first visit following the probationary order while the licensee is on probation pursuant to a probationary order made on and after July 1, 2019. (b) A licensee required to provide a disclosure pursuant to subdivision (a) shall obtain from the patient, or the patient’s guardian or health care surrogate, a separate, signed copy of that disclosure. (c) A licensee shall not be required to provide a disclosure pursuant to subdivision (a) if any of the following applies: (1) The patient is unconscious or otherwise unable to comprehend the disclosure and sign the copy of the disclosure pursuant to subdivision (b) and a guardian or health care surrogate is unavailable to comprehend the disclosure and sign the copy. (2) The visit occurs in an emergency room or an urgent care facility or the visit is unscheduled, including consultations in inpatient facilities. (3) The licensee who will be treating the patient during the visit is not known to the patient until immediately prior to the start of the visit. (4) The licensee does not have a direct treatment relationship with the patient. (d) On and after July 1, 2019, the board shall provide the following information, with respect to licensees on probation and licensees practicing under probationary licenses, in plain view on the licensee’s profile page on the board’s online license information Internet Web site. (1) For probation imposed pursuant to a stipulated settlement, the causes alleged in the operative accusation along with a designation identifying those causes by which the licensee has expressly admitted guilt and a statement that acceptance of the settlement is not an admission of guilt. (2) For probation imposed by an adjudicated decision of the board, the causes for probation stated in the final probationary order. (3) For a licensee granted a probationary license, the causes by which the probationary license was imposed. (4) The length of the probation and end date. (5) All practice restrictions placed on the license by the board. (e) A violation of this section shall not be punishable as a crime. (Added by Stats. 2018, Ch. 570, Sec. 7. (SB 1448) Effective January 1, 2019.)
  200. 4963.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 12. Acupuncture [4925 - 4979] ( Chapter 12 repealed (in Sec. 11) and added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Enforcement [4955 - 4964] ( Article 4 added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. )

    Verify source ↗

    The board may bring an action in superior court, and the court may issue an injunction or other order to stop conduct that violates this chapter.

    ## Business and Professions Code - BPC ## DIVISION 2. HEALING ARTS [500 - 4999.202] ( Division 2 enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 399. ) ## CHAPTER 12. Acupuncture [4925 - 4979] ( Chapter 12 repealed (in Sec. 11) and added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## ARTICLE 4. Enforcement [4955 - 4964] ( Article 4 added by Stats. 1980, Ch. 1313, Sec. 11.5. ) ## 4963. Whenever any person has engaged in an act or practice which constitutes an offense against this chapter, a superior court of a county on application of the board may issue an injunction or other appropriate order restraining that conduct. Proceedings under this section shall be governed by Chapter 3 (commencing with Section 525) of Title 7 of Part 2 of the Code of Civil Procedure. The board may commence action in such superior court under the provisions of this section on its own motion and no undertaking shall be required in any action commenced by the board. (Amended by Stats. 1999, Ch. 655, Sec. 74. Effective January 1, 2000.)

Provision text is displayed from LexChat’s stored statute record. Use the official source links to verify amendments, commencement, and current legal force.

LexChat organizes source-backed legal information for research. Verify amendments, commencement, and current legal force with the official publisher before relying on it.