One of the many benefits of working locum tenens is the opportunity to choose where you practice. For physicians, that can mean exploring new practice settings, working with different patient populations, and considering jobs in parts of the country you may not otherwise have had the chance to experience. That flexibility is part of the appeal, but it also means thinking through what it takes to get licensed in the states where you want to work.

If you are exploring locum tenens jobs in a new state, physician licensure fees, requirements, and processing timelines can all affect how quickly you can get started. Since those details vary from state to state, having the information in one place can make it easier to compare opportunities and plan ahead. To help simplify the process, we compiled a list of every medical board and licensing authority in the United States in one convenient resource.

For each state, you will find:

  • Medical board contact information
  • The average time to obtain a license
  • Whether the state is part of the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact (IMLC)
  • If the Federation Credentials Verification Service (FCVS) is accepted or required

To access the complete physician licensure application fees and timelines information by state, please complete the short form below.

Download the Physician Licensure Application Fees and Timelines by State Information
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View Physician Licensure Timelines by State

  • =1-3 Months
  • =3-4 Months
  • =4+ Months

Please note that the fees, timelines, and other information provided above were in effect at the writing of this post on April 6, 2026, and are subject to change. Similarly, the timelines for obtaining a license are estimates. To learn about which states are participating in the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact (IMLC), view our interactive map.

Medicus Healthcare Solutions’ experienced licensing team can help you with the licensing process in any state. To speak with one of our dedicated licensing coordinators, please call (603) 898-6492 or email medicusmarketing@medicushcs.com, and one of our knowledgeable team members will contact you shortly. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Physician Licensure

How Long Does Physician Licensure Usually Take?

Physician licensure timelines vary by state. Some states issue licenses within one to three months, while others may be four months or longer, depending on verification requirements, applicant volumes, or other factors.

What is the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact?

The Interstate Medical Licensure Compact is an agreement among participating U.S. states that streamlines the process for physicians to obtain medical licenses in multiple states. Rather than applying separately through each state’s traditional licensing process, eligible physicians can use the Compact to accelerate approval across member states. The IMLC does not replace state licensure. Each state still issues its own license, but the Compact simplifies and expedites the process for qualified physicians seeking to practice in multiple locations. Explore additional answers to common questions regarding the IMLC here.

What Can Slow Down the Physician Licensure Process?

Several factors can extend the physician licensure timeline. Incomplete applications, missing documentation, or delays in primary source verification are among the most common. However, background checks, reference reviews, and state-specific requirements may also contribute to longer processing periods.

What Documents are Commonly Required for Physician Licensure?

While requirements vary by state, most medical boards request a consistent set of core documents. These typically include proof of medical education and postgraduate training, board certification status, work history, and references.

Can Physicians Hold Medical Licenses in More than One State?

Yes, physicians can hold active medical licenses in multiple states. This is especially common for physicians working locum tenens, as it allows for greater flexibility when working across different regions. It is important to note that each state license must be obtained and maintained separately, including meeting renewal requirements and continuing medical education standards.

How Does a Locum Tenens Agency Help with Physician Licensing?

A locum tenens agency can help simplify the licensing process by providing support with applications, documentation, verification, and state-specific requirements. At Medicus, our in-house licensing team guides you through every step of the licensing process, including application preparation and submission, and coordinates with state medical boards to help navigate any challenges that may arise.