Dry needling in California: the rules for physical therapists

California PTs can't dry needle. The Acupuncture Practice Act bars inserting needles to treat pain unless another law expressly allows it, and the PT Practice Act doesn't.

Not allowedfor PTs

Not applicabletraining before you start

Rules to know

The Legislature's 2026 review of the PT board raised dry needling as an open issue, so this could change. Check the board before relying on it.

Official sources

California Senate: Background paper for the Physical Therapy Board of California (March 2026, PDF), issue 5
Cal. Bus. & Prof. Code § 4927, Acupuncture definition

A plain-language summary, last checked October 24, 2026. Dry needling rules change often and some states regulate it through board statements rather than law, so confirm with your board before you dry needle. OTs and athletic trainers have their own rules.

Dry needling courses in California

2 upcoming in-person courses. Make sure a course's hours and format meet California's rules before you register.

October 2026

Fri–Sun, Oct 30 – Nov 1, 2026 · 3 days Trigger Point Acupuncture / Dry Needling 2 $1,250 · 27.5 contact hrs · San Jose Myopain Seminars· Chantel Building - San Jose CADry Needling Details and registration

January 2027

Sat–Sun, Jan 9–10, 2027 · 2 days Dry Needling Level 1 Price on provider site · 24 contact hrs · Fresno IARDry Needling Details and registration

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Common questions

Can physical therapists dry needle in California?

No. California PTs can't dry needle. The Acupuncture Practice Act bars inserting needles to treat pain unless another law expressly allows it, and the PT Practice Act doesn't.

How much training do PTs need to dry needle in California?

Not applicable, since PTs may not dry needle under current law.