Online tutors from California are still in high demand, despite the state’s enactment of labor laws.
As you may know, California has enacted some labor laws to protect freelancers, and many companies have just stopped hiring from California. I have the same problem as a tutor based in Massachusetts, by the way, because Massachusetts uses a test similar to California’s AB5 to classify independent contractors.
So, what ESL companies still hire from California as of 2025?
Chegg Tutors – Chegg is still posting in California for job openings so they are worth trying out, though I don’t think they are hiring direct English tutors any longer.
Wyzant – to work for Wyzant, you need to legally live permanently in the USA. They don’t specify anything about the state.
tutorme – tutorme posts jobs on LinkedIn in California so they seem to be hiring from California, still
study.com – this is a platform open to all states.
What online teaching companies do not hire from California?
Cambly does NOT hire tutors from California.
Varsitytutor doesn’t say it on their website but other tutors say that they specify on their Linkedin job postings that they don’t hire from California
VIPkid Global is hiring again, too.
Some online teaching companies might refuse to hire tutors from California due to legal and regulatory reasons. California has stringent labor laws, especially regarding independent contractors, which could pose challenges for companies operating in the gig economy. Additionally, California has specific requirements regarding wages, benefits, and worker classification that some companies may find burdensome or difficult to comply with. As a result, these companies might choose to avoid hiring tutors from California to avoid potential legal complications and ensure compliance with state laws.
Here are more links if you are interested in learning more:
California Dreamin’: Teach English from the Golden State
Is it legal to teach English in China?
How to become a state-certified ESL teacher in Massachusetts without an MA in Education
Virtual Language: A Guide to Teaching English Online for Adults
ESL companies that are hiring now
