Louisiana Personal Trainer Requirements (2026)
Louisiana has state-level regulation for personal trainers. You need an NCCA-accredited certification and must meet additional state requirements.
Quick Summary
Accepted Certifications in Louisiana
Louisiana requires trainers to hold a certification from an NCCA-accredited organization. The following certifications are widely accepted:
Louisiana State Requirements
Louisiana is one of the few states that regulates personal trainers. Under the Louisiana Clinical Exercise Physiology Practice Act, some personal training activities may fall under state oversight. Trainers who work with clients who have medical conditions or who perform clinical assessments may need to meet additional requirements. Contact the Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners for current rules. Most gym-based personal trainers with an NCCA-accredited certification can practice without a state license.
State CE Requirements
Louisiana requires 20 continuing education hours every 2 years. This is in addition to CE requirements from your certifying organization (NASM, ACE, etc.).
Regulatory Body
Contact the Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners for the most current requirements.
How to Become a Personal Trainer in Louisiana
- Get certified through an NCCA-accredited organization. NASM, ACE, ISSA, NSCA, and ACSM are the most recognized. Each requires passing a proctored exam.
- Get CPR/AED certified through the American Red Cross, American Heart Association, or another recognized provider. All major certifying orgs require this.
- Get liability insurance. Most gyms require it, and it protects you if a client is injured. Policies start around $150 per year.
- Register with the Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners. Louisiana requires state-level registration or licensure for personal trainers.
- Apply to gyms, studios, or start your own business. Build a client base through referrals, social media, and local networking.
- Keep your certifications current. Complete your CE requirements on time and renew before your certification expires.
CE Requirements by Certifying Organization
In addition to Louisiana state requirements, your certifying organization has its own CE requirements:
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Louisiana require a license for personal trainers?
Yes. Louisiana has some form of state-level regulation for personal trainers. Trainers must hold an NCCA-accredited certification. Contact the Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners for the latest requirements.
What certifications are accepted in Louisiana?
Louisiana accepts certifications from NCCA-accredited organizations including NASM, ACE, ISSA, NSCA, and ACSM.
How many CE hours do personal trainers need in Louisiana?
Louisiana requires 20 CE hours every 2 years in addition to your certifying organization's requirements.
How do I become a personal trainer in Louisiana?
Get certified through an NCCA-accredited organization (NASM, ACE, ISSA, NSCA, or ACSM), get CPR/AED certified, and register with the Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners. Most gyms also require liability insurance.
Do I need insurance to train clients in Louisiana?
While Louisiana may not mandate insurance for all trainers, most gyms require it and it is strongly recommended. Liability insurance protects you if a client is injured during a session.
Can I train clients online in Louisiana?
Online personal training is generally permitted, but you should hold a valid NCCA-accredited certification and check with the Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners for any restrictions that apply to virtual training.
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