Getting your medical license isn’t what it used to be. Granted, it’s never been an easy process by design. Whether you’re a brand new physician or have been practicing for years, getting a medical license looks different in every state. But now, it’s no longer a matter of graduating medical school, finishing a residency program, and getting a single state license.Because the demand for skilled physicians has increased along with explosive growth in locum tenens work, the whole process of medical licensing has changed.Here’s what you need to know about applying for a medical license and which states give you the least amount of hassle.
The Medical License Process: What Do All States Have in Common?
Though each state has their own set of criteria and complications for medical licensing, they also share a common baseline. At the minimum, you can expect to complete or submit the following:
- Verification from your medical school or residency
- References
- Controlled Substance Registration
- Malpractice Documentation
- Follow-Ups
- Interviews
How Easy Is It to Get a Medical License?
Getting a medical license will likely be the easiest part of your career, but it’s still not exactly “easy.” As someone who went through med school, you’re no stranger to demands and challenges and know you’ll have to follow whatever protocols the state requires to get your license.
For example, large states like California that have a significant number of physicians and patients who need them will likely have more requirements and waiting periods than states with smaller populations.
The Five Easiest States to Get a Medical License
The states listed below were chosen as “easy” based on the requirements for a medical license, the cost of application, time to fill out and submit the application, testing requirements, and efficient licensing processes:
#1 – Hawaii
FCVS: Yes
Application Fee: $290/$170
Application Timeline: 4-8 weeks minimum
Number of Exam Attempts: Unlimited on USMLE or COMLEX
Minimum Post-Grad Requirements: 1 year, 2 years IMG
Time Limit for Completing Licensing Examination Sequence: Unlimited on USMLE or COMLEX
#2 – Connecticut
FCVS: Yes
Application Fee: $570
Application Timeline: 4-12 weeks
Number of Exam Attempts: Unlimited on USMLE or COMLEX
Minimum Post-Grad Requirements: 2 years
Time Limit for Completing Licensing Examination Sequence: 7 years to complete US
#3 – Virginia
FCVS:
Application Fee: $302
Application Timeline: 12 weeks minimum
Number of Exam Attempts: Unlimited on USMLE
Minimum Post-Grad Requirements: 1 year, 2 years IMG
Time Limit for Completing Licensing Examination Sequence: 10 years for USMLE [more than 10 years for ABMS-certified candidates)
#4 – Indiana
FCVS: Yes
Application Fee: $250 + $60 for CSR
Application Timeline: 10-12 weeks
Number of Exam Attempts: 3 attempts per USMLE step; 5 attempts per COMLEX level
Minimum Post-Grad Requirements: 1 year, 2 years IMG
Time Limit for Completing Licensing Examination Sequence: 10 years for USMLE, 7 years to complete COMLEX
#5 – Michigan
FCVS: Yes
Application Fee: $150 or $235 with Controlled Substance Permit
Application Timeline: 6-8 weeks
Number of Exam Attempts: 3 attempts per USMLE step
Minimum Post-Grad Requirements: 2 years
Time Limit for Completing Licensing Examination Sequence: 7 years for USMLE from the date of passing any Step of the exam. Step 3 must be passed within four years of the first attempt at Step 3 OR must complete 1 year of post-grad training before making additional attempts at Step 3.
The above information is only intended to guide. You will still need to check with your chosen state to ensure you meet requirements. You may also find it prudent to get the help of a professional licensure company to help you acquire your medical license.
Where Will You Get Your Medical License?
The medical licensing process can be complex and confusing if you jump in blindly. The application alone may take several hours, not to mention verifying your documents and waiting for approval. But what if someone offers to handle the entire licensing process for you?
For only $699 a state, you’ll get to experience a stress-free process of obtaining a medical license.
Applying for multiple states? Call in for a discount.
