Education
Graduate from an accredited medical school (MD or DO).
International graduates must hold ECFMG certification.
Postgraduate Training
U.S./Canadian medical graduates: 1 year of ACGME or AOA-approved postgraduate training.
International medical graduates: 3 years of accredited postgraduate training (unless meeting specific ABMS specialty certification exemptions).
Examinations
Must pass a Board-approved exam (USMLE, COMLEX, NBME, NBOME) within the required sequence and within the Board’s time limits.
USMLE attempts generally limited to four tries per step (with exceptions via Board review).
Good Moral Character
Applicants must demonstrate professional conduct and no history of disqualifying behavior.
Criminal Background Check
State and FBI background checks are required.
Fingerprinting must be completed through an approved vendor.
Training License (Resident/Fellow)
For physicians participating in Kentucky ACGME/AOA training programs.
Academic License
For faculty at medical schools or teaching hospitals.
Requires supervision and proof of academic appointment.
Temporary Permit
Issued at the Board’s discretion while a full license is pending (varies case-by-case).
Kentucky requires:
60 hours of CME every 3 years
At least 30 hours must be Category 1
Controlled substance CME:
Physicians with a DEA registration must complete 4.5 hours related to KASPER, pain management, addiction, or controlled substances per cycle.
Licenses renew every year (annual renewal).
Renewal is done through the KBML online system.
A portion of licensees may be selected for CME audit, so keep documentation readily available.
Kentucky offers streamlined pathways for physicians already licensed elsewhere:
Endorsement / Expedited License
Eligibility may include:
An active, unrestricted medical license in another U.S. state.
No history of significant disciplinary actions.
Evidence of continuous practice.
Board certification (ABMS/AOA) may strengthen eligibility.
Telehealth License
For out-of-state physicians providing telemedicine to Kentucky patients.
Requires an unrestricted license in another jurisdiction and no disciplinary history.
Typical processing timelines:
6–12 weeks, depending on:
Background check completion
FCVS profile availability
Accuracy of application & documents
Response time from training programs and employers
Delays occur most commonly due to incomplete documentation or slow third-party verifications.
Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure (KBML)
https://kbml.ky.gov/Pages/default.aspx
KBML Online Licensing Portal
https://secure.kentucky.gov/KBML/
Kentucky Medical Practice Act
https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/law/statutes/chapter.aspx?id=38213
CME Requirements (AMA/ACCME Tracker)
https://www.cmepassport.org
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