If you’re thinking about a career in chiropractic care, you’re probably wondering: How long does it take to become a chiropractor? The short answer is usually 6 to 8 years, but there are a few steps along the way that can affect your timeline.
Let’s break it all down.
Step 1: Undergraduate Education (3–4 Years)
Before you can apply to chiropractic school, you’ll need at least 90 credit hours of undergraduate coursework — that’s about 3 years of college.
Most chiropractic schools don’t require a specific major, but many students choose to study health sciences, biology, or kinesiology. Some states, including California, may require a full bachelor’s degree to become licensed, so it’s a good idea to check local requirements.
What you’ll study:
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Anatomy & Physiology
- Physics (with lab work)
Step 2: Doctor of Chiropractic Program (3–4 Years)
Once you’ve completed your prerequisites, you can apply to a Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C.) program. These programs typically take 3 to 4 years, depending on whether your school operates on a semester, trimester, or quarter system.
What You’ll Learn:
- Year 1: Advanced sciences (Anatomy, Microbiology, Physiology)
- Year 2: Radiology, Diagnosis, Chiropractic Technique
- Year 3+: Clinical training and hands-on patient care
At many schools, including those in California, you’ll get real-world experience through clinical rotations in campus clinics and outside healthcare settings.
Step 3: Board Exams & Licensure
To practice legally, you’ll need to pass a series of National Board of Chiropractic Examiners (NBCE) exams:
- Part I: Basic sciences
- Part II: Diagnostic sciences
- Part III: Clinical case studies
- Part IV: Hands-on technique and case management
- Physiotherapy Exam: 120 hours of coursework required
If you’re planning to practice in California, you’ll also need to pass the California Chiropractic Law Exam (CCLE), submit fingerprints, and complete a background check.
Step 4: Continuing Education (Ongoing)
Even after you’re licensed, you’ll need to keep learning. In California, chiropractors must complete 24 hours of continuing education every year to maintain their license. This includes:
- 2 hours of ethics and law
- 4 hours of techniques or clinical procedures
- 18 hours of related courses like pain management, diagnostic testing, or chiropractic philosophy
Up to 4 of those hours can even come from attending a state board meeting!
Total Time Commitment
| Stage | Time Required |
| Undergraduate Study | 3–4 years |
| Chiropractic School | 3–4 years |
| Licensing & Exams | Varies (can overlap with school) |
Total: 6–8 years
This timeline might seem long, but it’s worth it if you’re passionate about helping people feel better naturally and holistically. Chiropractic care is a growing field with opportunities to specialize in sports medicine, pediatrics, geriatrics, and more.
FAQs About Becoming a Chiropractor
How much schooling is required to be a chiropractor?
You’ll need a minimum of 6–8 years of education: 3–4 years of undergrad plus 3–4 years of chiropractic school.
Do chiropractors need to take board exams?
Yes, chiropractors must pass a 4-part NBCE exam plus a physiotherapy exam. In California, you’ll also take the CCLE (California Chiropractic Law Exam).
Can you practice in California without a bachelor’s degree?
Maybe. California requires 90 credit hours, but a full bachelor’s degree is recommended and sometimes required.
Where did Dr. Sandy Baird, DC, founder of Riverstone Chiropractic in Oakland CA attend school?
Dr. Baird attended U.C. Berkeley for their undergrad (BS in Civil Engineering), then transitioned from working on buildings to working on bodies. They then attended Lifewest Chiropractic College West in Hayward CA for their chiropractic doctorate.
If you’re thinking about chiropractic as a career, take the time to research accredited schools, state licensing requirements, and potential specializations. The journey is long, but the reward is a meaningful, hands-on healthcare career that helps people live better every day.
Want to learn more about chiropractic care from the patient side? Check out our blog “How Much Does a Chiropractor Cost?” for a breakdown of care costs and what to expect at your first visit.
