Hold an active, unencumbered U.S. medical license or apply for California medical licensure if licensed in another state.
Graduate from a recognized and approved medical school (LCME-accredited for MDs, COCA-accredited for DOs; international graduates must meet California’s specific educational standards).
Complete 36 months (3 years) of ACGME-accredited postgraduate training, or meet California’s alternative pathways if applicable.
Submit official medical school transcripts and proof of graduation sent directly to the Medical Board of California (MBC) or Osteopathic Medical Board of California (OMBC).
Provide verification of all residency training, sent directly from the training program(s).
Submit USMLE or COMLEX exam scores directly from the testing agency.
Provide verification of all medical licenses ever held, from each state’s licensing authority.
Complete the California medical license application through the appropriate board:
Medical Board of California (MDs)
Osteopathic Medical Board of California (DOs)
Pay all required application and licensing fees.
Upload or submit all required documents, including:
Medical school transcripts
Form L2 (residency verification)
Form L3 (employment history)
Fingerprint background check
NPDB Self-Query
Complete a California Department of Justice and FBI background check, including fingerprinting.
Provide complete documentation for any malpractice cases, disciplinary actions, or gaps in training.
California physicians are independent practitioners and do not require a collaborating physician.
To prescribe controlled substances:
Register for the Controlled Substance Utilization Review and Evaluation System (CURES), California’s prescription monitoring program.
Maintain an active DEA registration.
To maintain your California medical license:
Complete 50 CME hours every 2 years.
Complete 150 CME hours every 3 years, including:
At least 60 hours of AOA Category 1-A or 1-B.
Complete the state-required opioid and pain management CME, as mandated by California law.
Typical processing time: 6–12 weeks, depending on document completeness, verification delays, and background check processing.
International graduates or applicants with complex histories may take longer.
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Check out individual state requirements by clicking the links down below.
