To qualify for a Washington State physician (MD) medical license, applicants must meet the following requirements:
Hold an MD degree from a medical school accredited by the LCME or a foreign medical school recognized by the Washington Medical Commission.
Complete at least 2 years of ACGME-accredited postgraduate medical training (residency).
Provide verification of all medical education and training directly from each institution.
Hold a current passing score on all required exams (USMLE, NBME, FLEX, or a combination accepted by WMC).
Provide verification of all previous medical licenses (active or inactive), ensuring none are encumbered.
Submit fingerprints and pass a Washington State and FBI criminal background check.
Provide proof of identity and any required documentation related to name changes, if applicable.
Complete the Washington Medical Commission (WMC) Application
Apply through Washington’s online licensing portal (HELMS) or via the FSMB Uniform Application (UA).
Submit All Required Documents
Medical school transcripts
ECFMG certification (if internationally educated)
Residency training verification
Employment history and hospital privileges
License verifications
Exam scores (sent directly from the testing boards)
Pay Application and Licensing Fees
Fees vary depending on license type and processing requirements.
Complete Criminal Background Check
State and FBI fingerprinting is required before license approval.
Respond to Any WMC Requests
Provide clarification or additional documents if requested during review
In Washington:
Physicians automatically receive prescribing authority upon licensure—no separate application required.
To prescribe controlled substances, physicians must obtain:
A valid DEA registration, and
Comply with Washington’s Prescription Monitoring Program (PMP) requirements.
To maintain a Washington medical license, physicians must complete:
200 CME hours every 4 years, including:
At least 80 Category 1 hours
Remaining hours may be Category 2
For controlled substance prescribers:
Additional opioid-related CME may be required based on state guidelines.
Washington Medical Commission (WMC): https://wmc.wa.gov
MD License Requirements: https://wmc.wa.gov/licensing/licensing-requirements/physician-and-surgeon
Physician Application (MD): https://wmc.wa.gov/licensing/applications-and-forms/physician-md-application
Online Application (HELMS Portal): https://doh.wa.gov/licenses-permits-and-certificates
CME Requirements: https://wmc.wa.gov/education
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