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District of Columbia Medical License

David Ivaniuk • 28 April 2023 (updated)
District of Columbia

License Requirements

  • Medical School Verification and Transcripts
  • Internship, Residency, Fellowship Verification
  • 5 Years’ History of Employment and Privileges (if applicable)
  • National Examination Scores (USMLE/FLEX/NBME)
  • ECFMG Certification
  • Background Check
  • 3 Physician References
  • Average Processing Time: 3-4 months

Training Requirements

  • 3 attempts at USMLE Step 3; After which 1 additional year of postgraduate training is required.
  • No limit on COMLEX
  • 7 years to complete USMLE; No limit on COMLEX
  • 1 year, 3 years IMG Minimum Postgraduate Training Required
  • DC Accepts FCVS

District of Columbia Medical Board Contact Info

District of Columbia Medical License Application

Physicians, physician assistants, and nurses must obtain a medical license from the appropriate regulatory board. The particular requirements for acquiring a medical license vary depending on the profession, therefore it is critical to carefully research them before beginning the application process.

The following steps are commonly included in the application procedure for physicians:

  • Completing an online application and paying the application fee are required.
  • Submit official transcripts from all medical schools attended, as well as documentation of post-graduate medical education, including internship, residency, and fellowship training.
  • Submit verification of licensure from all states and territories where the applicant has held a medical license.
  • Submit the results of the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE), the Federation Licensing Examination (FLEX), or the National Board of Medical Examiners (NBME).
  • Submit 3 professional references from physicians who are licensed and in good standing.
  • Provide proof of ECFMG (Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates) certification, if applicable.
  • Undergo a criminal background check.

For physician assistants, the application process includes similar requirements, including:

  • Complete an online application and pay the application fee.
  • Submit official transcripts from an accredited physician assistant program.
  • Submit the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants (NCCPA) certificate.
  • Submit verification of licensure from all states and territories where the applicant has held a physician assistant license.
  • Submit 2 professional references from physicians who are licensed and in good standing.
  • Undergo a criminal background check.

For nurses, the application process is administered by the DC Board of Nursing and typically includes:

  • Complete an online application and pay the application fee.
  • Submit official transcripts from an accredited nursing program.
  • Submit documentation of certification by a national nursing organization, if applicable.
  • Submit verification of licensure from all states and territories where the applicant has held a nursing license.
  • Undergo a criminal background check.

DEA Registration and Renewal in the District of Columbia

Physicians who wish to prescribe controlled medications must register with the DEA as well. Every three years, the registration must be renewed by filing a renewal request and paying a fee.

District of Columbia License Renewal Process

A medical license renews every two years. The renewal process involves completing an online application and paying a fee.

Physicians are required to complete 50 hours of CME every two years. This includes two hours of LGBTQ cultural competency training, five hours of public health priority topics, and at least one course in pharmacology.

In order to obtain a PA license in DC, individuals must have completed a PA educational program and passed the Physician Assistant National Certifying Examination (PANCE). PAs must also complete 100 hours of CME every two years, including two hours of LGBTQ cultural competency training and 10 hours of public health priority topics.

In addition to PAs, nurses in the District are also required to complete continuing education. Registered nurses (RNs) and licensed practical nurses (LPNs) must complete 24 and 18 hours of CE, respectively, every two years. APRNs must complete 15 hours of pharmacology CE in addition to their regular CE requirements.

Supervising Physician Requirements

PAs must have a supervising physician, licensed in the District. The mentoring physician is required to have at least two years of expertise in the same specialty.

District of Columbia Medical License Verification

The DC Department of Health’s Health Regulation and Licensing Administration (HRLA) is in charge of overseeing and licensing healthcare professionals. They offer an online license verification tool that enables patients, employers, and the public to confirm the license status of healthcare providers in DC. The tool provides information such as the healthcare provider’s license status, expiration date, and any disciplinary actions taken against them.

DC Medical Licensing Service

You don’t have to navigate the complex and time-consuming requirements of the DC Board of Medicine or the Health Regulation and Licensing Administration (HRLA) alone. Whether you’re seeking a new license, updating your current one, or transferring your license from another state, our team is committed to supporting you throughout the licensing process. We handle all paperwork and verifications, making the procedure as simple as possible for you.

We have helped over 50,000 physicians in the United States, with a 99% success record and a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Don’t let the application process impede you. Reach out to us today to begin the process of getting your medical license in the District of Columbia

FAQ About DC Medical Licenure

  • What are the requirements for obtaining a medical license in the District of Columbia?
    The requirements vary depending on the type of license you are seeking. However, in general, you will need to: 1. Graduate from an accredited medical school 2. Complete a residency program 3. Pass scores on the relevant licensing exams 4. Clear background check and fingerprinting
  • How long does it take to get a medical license in the District of Columbia?
    The processing time for a medical license application in the District can vary. Generally, it takes no less than 2 months.
  • How much does it cost to get a medical license in the District of Columbia?
    The cost varies depending on the type of license you are seeking. For example, a physician’s license fee is $546, while the fee for a PA license is $226.
  • How do I apply for a medical license in DC?
    To apply you will need to submit an application and provide supporting documentation, such as your medical school transcripts and your licensing exam scores.
  • How can I expedite DC medical license?
    You can apply through the DC Health Online Application Portal. Please note that foreign-educated physicians licensed in Maryland and Virginia are ineligible for reciprocity in the District due to different licensure requirements for training.
  • What is the District of Columbia’s compact policy?
    The District of Columbia is a member of the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact.
  • How often do I need to renew my medical license in the District of Columbia?
    Medical licenses must be renewed every two years. The renewal cycle begins on the day of your birthday in the year that your license was issued and must be completed by the expiration date.
  • What are the continuing education requirements for maintaining a medical license in the District of Columbia?
    MDs and DOs need 50 hours of CE every two years in DC, including 2 hours of LGBTQ, 1 hour of pharmacology, and 5 hours of public health. PAs need 100 hours of CE, including 2 hours of LGBTQ and 10 hours of public health. They can use NCCPA certification for 100 hours, but not for LGBTQ and public health. RNs and APRNs need 24 hours of CE and 15 hours of pharmacology. LPNs need 18 hours of CE, including 2 hours of LGBTQ and 3 hours of HIV/AIDS.
  • Can I check the status of my medical license application in the District of Columbia?
    You can check the status of your medical license application in the District of Columbia through their online portal. You can also contact the Health Regulation and Licensing Administration (HRLA) at (202) 724-4900.
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State Requirements

Check out individual state requirements by clicking the links down below.