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Washington Medical License

Dev Team • 29 August 2023 (updated)
Washington

License Requirements

  • Medical School Verification and Transcripts
  • Examination Scores
  • Postgraduate Training Verification
  • NPDB Self-Query
  • Background Check
  • Jurisprudence Exam
  • All State Medical Licenses
  • Average Processing Time: 3-4 months

Training Requirements

  • 3 attempts om COMLEX and at USMLE Step 3
  • 2 years Minimum Postgraduate Training Required, 1 year for DOs
  • 7 years+ to complete USMLE, No limit on COMLEX
  • Washington Accepts FCVS

Washington Medical Commission

Washington Medical License Application

Physician (MD) Licensing in Washington

You can obtain a physician’s license in Washington with one of the following options:

  • Option 1: Exclusive Washington State Physician (MD) online application.
  • Option 2: The Uniform Application for Physician State Licensure (UA) and Federation Credentials Verification, easing multi-state applications.
  • Option 3: The expedited IMLCC pathway for physicians desiring licensure in multiple states.

Essential Application Requirements

Be mindful of these key components:

  • Legal Attestation: Only applicants or licensees can legally attest. Unauthorized completion is a felony.
  • Pre-Submission Preparation: Make AMA and FSMB profiles accessible and release relevant examination scores.
  • Application Fees: $491, non-refundable.
  • Additional Documentation: Notifications sent via email.
  • Background Check: Required by law, it might involve an FBI check, especially for out-of-state residents or those with criminal records.

Physician Assistant Licensing in Washington

To obtain a physician assistant license in Washington you can apply online with one of the following options:

  • Option 1: Specific State Physician Assistant application.
  • Option 2: The Uniform Application for Physician Assistant State Licensure (UA) with Federation Credentials Verification.

Application Necessities

Don’t forget to:

  • Complete the legal attestation.
  • Make your FSMB profile accessible and obtain NCCPA certification.
  • Pay the non-refundable application fees of $116
  • Be prepared to provide additional documentation if requested.

Background Check: Similar to physician requirements, including potential FBI involvement.

Washington Medical License Renewal

Licensed physicians are required to complete 200 hours of Continuing Medical Education (CME) every four years. This requirement is stated in Chapter 246-12 WAC, Part 7. Special topics that need to be addressed include a one-time 6-hour course regarding suicide prevention and a one-hour course on the best practices for prescribing opioids if they are prescribing such medications.

In contrast, licensed physician assistants must complete 100 hours of CME every two years. The requirements for them are outlined in the same chapter of the Administrative Code.

The licensure cycle also differs between Medical Doctors (MDs) and Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine (DOs). While the MD licensure cycle lasts four years, the DO licensure cycle is only three years long.

Both groups must comply with the state’s regulations regarding specific training. There is a legal requirement under RCW 43.70.442(5)(c) to take a one-time six-hour course on suicide assessment, treatment, and management. Also, if opioids are prescribed within WA, a one-time, one-hour CME course must be completed.

The Medical Commission also requires the completion of a demographic census for workforce planning. This is an integral part of the renewal process and contributes valuable information for state planning.

When it comes to the financial aspect of renewing a medical license, physicians must pay a two-year renewal fee of $956. If the renewal is late, a penalty fee of $300 is charged. On the other hand, physician assistants face a two-year renewal fee of $379, and a late renewal penalty of $124.

Washington Telemedicine License

The Medical Commission (WMC) doesn’t mandate a license for out-of-state specialists providing second opinions or consultations. If a patient, for example, seeks advice from a cancer center outside of Washington, the specialist doesn’t need a Washington license to review medical records and provide their opinion. However, they are not authorized to administer treatment in such a scenario.

Another exemption comes into play when a patient crosses Washington’s border and requires medical attention from a practitioner in their home state with whom they have an established relationship. The law is lenient in such situations and allows the out-of-state practitioner to provide temporary continuous care without a Washington license. This exemption ensures the patient’s best interest by allowing for continuous care from a familiar medical professional.

Washington Medical License Lookup

To look up a Physician, Surgeon, or Physician Assistant in Washington, you can easily utilize the online search provided by the Department of Health. By visiting the Provider Credential Search, you can input specific criteria, including Credential Type, Credential Number, or the professional’s First and Last Name.

If you need to verify your Washington Physician and Surgeon license, particularly for submission to another state medical board, the Washington State Medical Commission offers two distinct methods.

Firstly, the Commission has collaborated with Veridoc, Inc., an online service providing immediate licensure verification. By visiting Veridoc’s website and following the step-by-step instructions, you can create and send verification almost instantly. The service is streamlined and efficient but comes with a fee of $67.00.

Alternatively, you can obtain a verification of a Physician and Surgeon (MD) license at no cost via the Department of Health’s Provider Credential Search. Detailed instructions for printing this verification are provided on the website.

Verifying a Physician Assistant License

For those in need of verifying a Physician Assistant license, the process is slightly different. The Washington Medical Commission has ceased providing email or paper license verifications for Physician Assistants. However, you can access your verification through the Provider Credential Search and send it directly to the state medical board you are applying with. The recipient state may also obtain the verification from the website.

Washington Medical Licensing Service

At MedicalLicensing.com, our philosophy revolves around providing customized and attentive support tailored to each individual’s unique situation. From seasoned practitioners to those new to the medical field, our personalized support guarantees precise application preparation, meeting all necessary deadlines and requirements. 

While you remain dedicated to patient care and medical advancement, we handle all the administrative details of licensing, ensuring your journey is both smooth and effortless. Trust in our meticulous preparation and focus on what truly matters to you: providing quality care for your patients. 

With our tailored assistance, your licensing needs are met with the utmost professionalism, allowing you to concentrate on contributing to the vital field of healthcare. We’re here to support you every step of the way.

FAQs about Washington Medical License

  • How do I apply for a medical license in Washington?
    Applying for a medical license in Washington involves submitting a comprehensive application to the Washington State Medical Commission. It necessitates gathering all required documents, such as proof of medical education, residency training, and any necessary examinations.
  • How long does it take to get a medical license in Washington?
    The time it takes to get a medical license in Washington can vary widely, depending on several factors including the completeness of the application and the time required to verify credentials. Generally, it can take anywhere from 4 to 16 weeks. However, using services like MedicalLicensing.com can streamline the process, and their meticulous preparation ensures that all deadlines are met, potentially reducing the waiting time.
  • How much is a medical license in Washington?
    The cost of a medical license in Washington depends on the type of license and other specific factors related to your credentials. Generally, the fee might range from $300 to $800.
  • Is there a time limit to complete the application process once I start it?
    Yes, there is usually a specific timeframe within which you must complete your application process after initiating it. This timeframe may vary, so make sure to check the specific guidelines provided during the application process.
  • What documents are typically required during the medical license application process in Washington?
    Commonly required documents include medical school transcripts, proof of completing residency, exam scores, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and a background check. The specific list of required documents can be found on the WMC website.
  • Is there a separate application process for international medical graduates (IMGs)?
    Yes, IMGs typically follow a similar application process but may need to provide additional documentation, such as verification of medical education from foreign institutions and possibly passing an English language proficiency exam like the TOEFL.
  • Do I need to be a U.S. citizen to apply for a Washington medical license?
    No, you do not need to be a U.S. citizen to apply for a Washington medical license. However, you must meet the eligibility criteria set by the WMC, which often includes legal authorization to work in the United States.
  • Can I begin practicing medicine in Washington before receiving my license?
    Generally, you cannot practice medicine in Washington without a valid medical license. Engaging in medical practice without a license can have legal consequences.
  • What if I want to change my name or address after obtaining my license?
    If you need to update your name, address, or other personal information, you should notify the Washington Medical Commission (WMC) as soon as possible to ensure your license records are accurate and up-to-date.
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State Requirements

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