Acupuncture is a regulated health profession in British Columbia
Traditional Chinese medicine and acupuncture are regulated in British Columbia by the College of Complementary Health Professionals of BC (CCHPBC) under the Health Professions and Occupations Act and the Complementary Health Professionals Regulation.
The current regulation describes a scope that includes assessing a patient’s health status and providing health services based on traditional Chinese medicine theories and principles. Acupuncture is one of the regulated techniques within that scope.
Acupuncturist is a reserved professional title
Only a licensee authorized under the applicable bylaws may use the title acupuncturist. The designation Registered Acupuncturist (R.Ac.) identifies a licensee authorized to practise acupuncture in British Columbia.
Verify an acupuncturist through the CCHPBC registry
Training and entry to practice are structured
The current CCHPBC pathway for an R.Ac. includes graduation from a recognized acupuncture education program, at least two years of liberal arts or sciences study, the Pan-Canadian Acupuncturists Examination, a jurisprudence examination and the College’s interactive safety course, along with other licensing requirements.
Professional standards were updated in 2026
CCHPBC introduced unified professional standards effective April 1, 2026. They include expectations for informed consent, communications and professionalism, practice environment, record-keeping, scope of practice and integrated person-centred care.
Official references
- CCHPBC: Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners and Acupuncturists
- BC Laws: Complementary Health Professionals Regulation
Regulatory content reviewed August 2026.