Renewal – College of Acupuncturists of Alberta

Overview

To practice as an acupuncturist in Alberta and use a protected title (acupuncturist, doctor of acupuncture, Dr. Ac., R. Ac., Ac.), you must be registered with the College of Acupuncturists of Alberta and have a valid practice permit. A valid practice permit must be displayed when providing acupuncture services as outlined in the Health Professions Act section 36(5).

Practice permit renewal runs annually from February 1 to March 31.

Important: If renewal (including full payment) is not completed by March 31, the practice permit will be suspended on April 1. It is then illegal to practice acupuncture.

Due to the high volume of inquiries the College receives during renewal, we recommend renewing early in case you need support.

Practice permit renewal is mandatory for registrants on the General and Non-practicing Registers and must be completed through the Member Portal.

Refer to the College’s Registration Policy and associated procedure for further information.

Renewal requirements

Renewal is completed through the Member Portal. All documents must be submitted through the portal. To complete renewal:

Update your profile.
Record practice hours. Effective for the February 1, 2026, renewal, there is no longer a requirement for 600 direct practice hours in the past 3 years. Read announcement.
Submit a valid professional liability insurance certificate.
Complete Continuing Competence Program requirements:
1. At least 15 CCP credits for the previous registration cycle, including mandatory College-directed learning if applicable.
2. At least one learning goal with a learning summary and reflection for the upcoming registration cycle.
Submit a valid standard first-aid and CPR-C certificate.
Pay the practice permit fee.

You must complete and submit all of the above to successfully renew. For help, refer to the Member Portal Support page.

Late renewal

If renewal is not completed by March 31

Member registration is suspended as of April 1
It is illegal for the member to practice acupuncture as of April 1
The member must pay a late fee as outlined in the fee schedule
The member will receive a notice of intention to cancel their registration if renewal is not completed within 30 days

If renewal is not completed by the date in the notice

Their practice permit is cancelled
It is illegal for the member to practice acupuncture
The member must complete and submit a Reinstatement Application, including the application fee outlined in the fee schedule
The College will notify the member's employer of the cancellation of their permit

Renewal fee

The annual practice permit renewal fee is set out in the College's fee schedule. The fee can be paid by:

Visa debit or credit card through the Member Portal
E-transfer to payment@acupuncturealberta.ca — include your name, registration number, and "payment for renewal" in the message field

Access practice permit and tax receipt

All documents, including a tax receipt and your practice permit, are available in the Member Portal once renewal is complete and paid in full.

Cancel registration

To cancel your registration, send a message to info@acupuncturealberta.ca.