Yes, naturopathic doctors are licensed in California. However, know that not all “naturopaths” are licensed naturopathic doctors. Certain individuals call themselves “naturopaths” simply after taking some online classes. A licensed naturopathic doctor is different. Licensed naturopathic doctors graduated from four-year, in-residence doctoral degree programs accredited by the Council on Naturopathic Medical Education (CNME), which is recognized by the US Department of Education. Students from accredited naturopathic medical schools complete more than 4,100 contact hours of instruction, including at least 1,200 hours of supervised, hands-on clinical training.
In order to become licensed, naturopathic medical graduates must also pass national board exams. Some licensed ND students go on to complete post-doctoral residencies in health care facilities across North America.