§ 14045.15 — California Welfare and Institutions Code

(a) To receive a certification under this article, an applicant shall meet all of the following requirements:

(1) Be at least 18 years of age.

(2) Possess a high school diploma or equivalent degree.

(3) Be self-identified as having experience with the process of recovery from mental illness or substance use disorder either as a consumer of these services or as the parent or family member of the consumer.

(4) Be willing to share their experience.

(5) Have a strong dedication to recovery.

(6) Agree, in writing, to adhere to a code of ethics.

(7) Successfully complete the curriculum and training requirements for a peer support specialist.

(8) Pass a certification examination approved by the department for a peer support specialist.

(b) To maintain certification under this article, a certified peer support specialist shall meet both of the following requirements:

(1) Adhere to the code of ethics and biennially sign an affirmation.

(2) Complete any required continuing education, training, and recertification requirements.

(Added by Stats. 2020, Ch. 150, Sec. 2. (SB 803) Effective January 1, 2021.)