Can a Doctor be Licensed in Multiple States?

The TLDR; Yes, a doctor can be licensed in multiple states. To get licensed in multiple states, though, you must apply to the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact or to non-Compact states individually. 

Locum tenens might mean “to hold in place," but your job takes you on a new adventure every day. Licensing and credentialing requirements are just one part of your journey - think of them as your ticket to ride. And while fitting licensing requirements into your busy schedule can be a challenge, we have the 2 minute summary on how you can streamline the process and make sure you’re licensed in multiple states.

What Is the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact?

The Interstate Medical Licensure Compact (IMLC) is an agreement among state medical licensing boards that creates a streamlined process for physicians to get licensed in multiple states. It’s important to remember that physicians carry multiple forms of credentialing including medical licensure and holding a National Provider Identifier number for billing. So to get an interstate license, you need to apply to the IMLC. 

The IMLC dramatically streamlines the licensing process by allowing qualified locums physicians to apply through their home state to receive licenses in any or all participating states.

The compact is all about advancing medical licensing in a way that reduces administrative barriers to interstate practice while maintaining exceptional standards of patient care.

How Do Physicians Participate in the Interstate Compact?

First, you need to check to see whether you meet the Compact’s full requirements. To qualify, locum tenens physicians need to:

• Hold a full, unrestricted medical license in a Compact member state 
• Have completed a residency program and education at an accredited medical school or a school in the International Medical Education Directory
• Have successfully completed the ACGME or an accredited graduate medical education
• Pass all licensing exams on the first or second attempt
• Have an up-to-date specialty certification or time-unlimited certification that is board certified by the ABMS
• Have no history of disciplinary actions or criminal record
• Have no use of controlled substance issues listed on your license
• Not be under criminal investigation

After double checking the standards, you should apply on the IMLC website. This will mean paying a $700 one-time fee via credit card and submitting fingerprints for a criminal background check. If approved, you’ll receive an official Letter of Qualification from your State of primary licensure. From there, you can choose which states in the compact you’re seeking licensure in and send them your Letter of Qualification to complete the process.

What Is the Interstate Medical Licensure Commission? 

The Interstate Medical Licensure Commission is the governing oversight board for the Compact. They administer its policies, rules and procedures, and facilitate the multistate licensing process. The Commission doesn’t issue licenses itself and isn’t a government office. Instead, it’s an external board made up of members that are on a medical or osteopathic licensing board from each participating state. 

How Many States Are Part of the Compact?

42 U.S. States are part of the compact, along with the District of Columbia and Guam. To check the status of states that are currently joining the Compact, you will need to visit their Compact State Map.

Some states have introduced legislation to become part of the Compact, but have not yet completed the process and are not considered to be participants yet.

Current Compact Members include:

• Alabama
• Arizona
• Colorado
• Connecticut
• Delaware
• District of Columbia
• Florida
• Georgia
• Guam
• Hawaii
• Idaho
• Illinois
• Indiana
• Iowa
• Kansas
• Kentucky
• Louisiana
• Maine
• Maryland
• Michigan
• Minnesota
• Mississippi
• Missouri
• Montana
• Nebraska
• Nevada
• New Hampshire
• New Jersey
• North Dakota
• Ohio
• Oklahoma
• Pennsylvania
• Rhode Island
• South Dakota
• Tennessee
• Texas
• Utah
• Vermont
• Washington
• West Virginia
• Wisconsin
• Wyoming

And a final note: Connecticut, Pennsylvania, and Vermont do not qualify as States of Principle Licensure (SPL). This means you cannot apply to the Compact through those state licenses and must gain licensure in another state considered to be an SPL first. 

What If a State I Want to Practice in Is Not Part of the Compact?

If the state where you are seeking licensure is not part of the Compact, you must apply directly to that state’s Medical Licensing Board. This will mean checking that state’s licensure requirements, paying your application fee and submitting your fingerprints for a criminal background check.

What Are the Benefits of Participating in the Compact?

Participating in the Compact makes the process of getting multi-state licensure significantly faster than going it alone. It’s the most time-efficient way to get licensed before your next locum tenens opportunity in a participating member state. It also may be more cost-effective for locums physicians than applying to individual states, depending on the number of contracts and locations.

Enjoy Flexible Schedules and Travel Opportunities with Era Locums

Tired of the daily grind and thinking about practicing in multiple states? We're Era, and we're all about helping physicians like you find the perfect career fit. We'll help streamline your credentialing and licensure – so you can reach your goals and enjoy the freedom you deserve. Get in touch today, or browse our open job positions!