Ethics & Regulations (Verified Answers)
This comprehensive study resource is specifically designed for candidates preparing for
the 2026 California Chiropractic Law Examination (CCLE). It features over 400
exam-style questions and detailed verified answers covering critical areas such as the
California Chiropractic Initiative Act, scope of practice limitations, and mandated
reporting requirements. The guide simplifies complex regulations regarding the
supervision of unlicensed staff, professional advertising standards, and practice
ownership rules to ensure you are fully prepared for the computerized assessment.
Updated for the current licensing cycle, this bundle provides the essential legal
knowledge needed to secure your California chiropractic license with confidence.
According to the Chiropractic Initiative Act, what is the primary scope of practice for
a California chiropractor?
A. Diagnosis and treatment of all human diseases.
B. Adjustment of the spinal column and other joints for the purpose of correcting
nerve interference.
C. Prescription of drugs and minor surgery.
D. Practice of obstetrics and pharmacology.
Answer: B. Adjustment of the spinal column and other joints for the
purpose of correcting nerve interference.
Rationale: California law restricts the scope to the spinal column and joints;
prescribing drugs or performing surgery is strictly prohibited.
What is the minimum number of Continuing Education (CE) hours required annually for
license renewal?
A. 12 hours
B. 18 hours
C. 24 hours
,D. 30 hours
Answer: C. 24 hours
Rationale: California requires 24 hours of CE each year, with specific mandatory
categories for ethics and law.
Out of the 24 required CE hours, how many must be in the category of Ethics and Law?
A. 1 hour
B. 2 hours
C. 4 hours
D. 6 hours
Answer: B. 2 hours
Rationale: 2 hours of Ethics and Law are mandatory for every annual renewal cycle.
A chiropractor must notify the Board of a change of practice address within how many
days?
A. 10 days
B. 15 days
C. 30 days
D. 60 days
Answer: C. 30 days
Rationale: Failure to report a change of address within 30 days can result in a citation or
fine.
Which of the following is considered "Unprofessional Conduct" under California law?
A. Using the title "Doctor" followed by "D.C."
B. Charging a fee for a missed appointment.
C. Referral of a patient for a fee (kickbacks).
D. Displaying a valid license in the office.
Answer: C. Referral of a patient for a fee (kickbacks).
Rationale: Fee-splitting or "kickbacks" for referrals is a violation of the Business and
Professions Code.
What is the maximum number of CE hours that can be completed through distance
learning?
A. 6 hours
B. 12 hours
,C. 18 hours
D. 24 hours
Answer: B. 12 hours
Rationale: California law limits distance learning to 50% of the total required hours (12
of 24).
A chiropractor’s license expires annually on what date?
A. December 31st
B. June 30th
C. The last day of the licensee’s birth month
D. One year from the date of issuance
Answer: C. The last day of the licensee’s birth month
Rationale: Renewal is based on the individual's birth month.
Which of the following is an allowable modality for a California chiropractor?
A. Laser surgery
B. Ultrasound for neuromuscular skeletal diagnosis
C. Diagnostic colonoscopy
D. Injected anesthetics
Answer: B. Ultrasound for neuromuscular skeletal diagnosis
Rationale: Chiropractors can use mechanical and hygienic measures as long as they
are related to chiropractic diagnosis/treatment.
A chiropractor is a "Mandated Reporter" for which of the following?
A. Financial fraud
B. Child abuse and neglect
C. Insurance lapses
D. Patient non-compliance
Answer: B. Child abuse and neglect
Rationale: Chiropractors are legally required to report suspected child, elder, or
dependent adult abuse.
What is the mandatory title requirement when a chiropractor uses the prefix "Doctor" or
"Dr."?
A. No additional title is needed.
B. They must include "D.C." or "Chiropractor" in the same document.
, C. They must include their undergraduate degree.
D. They must specify "Medical Doctor."
Answer: B. They must include "D.C." or "Chiropractor" in the same document.
Rationale: This prevents public confusion regarding the practitioner's specific field of
expertise.
A chiropractor’s patient records must be retained for at least how many years?
A. 3 years
B. 5 years
C. 7 years
D. 10 years
Answer: C. 7 years
Rationale: Patient records must be kept for 7 years from the date of the last treatment
(longer for minors).
If a patient is a minor, how long must the records be kept?
A. 7 years
B. Until the patient reaches age 19
C. 7 years OR until the patient turns 19, whichever is longer
D. 10 years
Answer: C. 7 years OR until the patient turns 19, whichever is longer
Rationale: This ensures the patient has access to records after reaching the age of
majority.
What is the legal status of a chiropractor who is convicted of a felony involving Medi-Cal
fraud?
A. They receive a public reprimand.
B. Their license is automatically suspended.
C. They must complete 10 extra CE hours.
D. No action is taken if it's their first offense.
Answer: B. Their license is automatically suspended.
Rationale: Certain felonies related to fraud trigger mandatory license suspension or
revocation.
Can a layperson (non-chiropractor) own a chiropractic corporation?
A. Yes, fully.