To practice as an acupuncturist in Alberta and use a protected title (i.e., 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. Due to the high volume of inquiries the College receives during renewal, we recommend members renew early in case they need support.
For registrants on the General and Non-practicing Registers:
- Practice permit renewal is mandatory.
- Practice permit renewal must be completed by March 31 every year. If renewal (including full payment) is not completed by March 31, the acupuncturist’s practice permit will be suspended on April 1. It is then illegal for them to practice acupuncture.
- Practice permit renewal must be completed and submitted through the Member Portal.
Refer to the College’s Registration Policy and Procedure for complete 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 (including direct practice hours).
- Submit a valid professional liability insurance certificate.
- Complete Continuing Competence Program requirements:
- At least fifteen (15) continuing competence program credits for the previous registration cycle, including the mandatory College-directed learning, if applicable
- 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 completing renewal, 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 of intention to cancel:
- 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
- Visa debit or credit card through the Member Portal.
- E-transfer to payment@acupuncturealberta.ca. Include the following information in the message field:
- Name
- Registration number
- Payment for renewal