Must hold an M.D. or D.O. degree from a medical school:
A school accredited by LCME or AOA, or
A non-accredited medical school, but in such cases, you must have ECFMG certification.
Complete postgraduate (residency) training:
At least 1 year of hospital training if you graduated from an LCME/AOA-accredited school.
3 years of training required if you graduated from a non-accredited medical school.
Pass a state-approved licensing examination:
USMLE Steps 1, 2, and 3, or
COMLEX-USA Parts 1, 2, and 3 for DOs
Be at least 21 years old.
Be of good moral character.
Complete a criminal background check (fingerprinting) as required by New York State.
Submit primary-source verification of education, training, and exam history (via FCVS or direct).
Fill out Form 1 (Application for Licensure) via the New York State Office of the Professions.
on fee of US$ 735.
Submit required supporting documents:
Official transcripts from medical school
Postgraduate training verification
Exam score reports (USMLE or COMLEX)
ECFMG certification (if applicable)
Arrange for FCVS (Federation Credentials Verification Service) to forward your core credentials, if required.
Complete mandatory training/courses:
Child abuse identification & reporting training.
Infection control / HIV & Hepatitis B precautions training.
If eligible, apply for a Limited Permit to practice under supervision while completing licensure.
Licensed physicians in New York can prescribe medications once fully licensed.
For controlled substances, physicians must:
Register for a New York State Controlled Substance Certificate.
Obtain / maintain a DEA registration.
Physician licenses in NY must be renewed every 2 years.
CME (Continuing Medical Education) requirements are set by the State Board of Medicine (check current Board regulations for required hours/topics).
The application review depends on completeness of documentation (education, training, exam verification, background check).
Using FCVS for credential verification can help speed things up.
Expect several weeks (or more) for full licensure, depending on the volume of applications and document verification timelines.
NYS Office of the Professions — Physicians: https://www.op.nysed.gov/professions/physicians/license-requirements Office of the Professions
Application Forms for Physicians: https://www.op.nysed.gov/professions/physicians/license-application-forms Office of the Professions
New York Education Law – Medicine (Article 131): https://www.op.nysed.gov/professions/physicians/laws-rules-regulations/article-131 Office of the Professions
NBOME / COMLEX Requirements for New York DO Licensure: https://www.op.nysed.gov/sites/op/files/2025-03/030725%20NBOME%20%26%20COMLEX-USA%20Update%20to%20NYSBOM.pdf Office of the Profe
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