What is the difference between NCBAHM certification and state licensure?

The NCBAHM is a Certification Services agency that validates entry-level competency in the practice of acupuncture and Herbal medicine (AHM) through professional certification. NCBAHM certification or a passing score on the NCBAHM certification examinations are pre-requisite for licensure as an acupuncturist by 46 states plus the District of Columbia which represents 98% of the states that regulate acupuncture.

State licensure is the process whereby a government (state or local) grants an individual permission to pursue an occupation and/or operate a business. NCBAHM examinations and/or Certification does not guarantee the Diplomate a state acupuncture license; licensing is regulated by the state in which a Diplomate practices and varies greatly from state to state as some states require that applicants for licensure send their NCBAHM exam results, while other states require full NCBAHM certification. It is the responsibility of the applicant to check all prerequisites for state licensure.

The NCBAHM certification and State Licensure are two different credentials and must be obtained and maintained separately.