Step-by-Step: How to Get a Colorado Medical License
Create Online Application Account
1–2 daysRegister with the Colorado Medical Board online portal and begin your application. Gather all required documents before starting.
Primary Source Verification
2–4 weeksFCVS accepted but not required; board conducts primary source verification. The board conducts primary source verification of your medical education, residency, and fellowship training directly.
Background Check & Fingerprinting
1–3 weeksComplete the required background check: FBI fingerprint. Schedule fingerprinting at an authorized location and submit results to the board.
Submit Supporting Documents
1–2 weeksProvide verification of training (residency, fellowship), board certification, malpractice history, peer references, and any required CME documentation.
Board Review & Approval
6–10 weeksThe Colorado Medical Board reviews your complete application. Processing time varies based on application volume and completeness of your file.
DEA Registration
2–4 weeksApply for DEA registration in the new state if you will be prescribing controlled substances. DEA registration is separate from state licensure.
Total estimated time: 6–10 weeks (standard) · 2–3 weeks (IMLC, if eligible)
Colorado Medical License Requirements Checklist
Is Colorado in the IMLC Compact for Locum Physicians?
Colorado is an IMLC member state. Eligible physicians can obtain a Colorado license through the compact in 2–3 weeks instead of the standard 6–10 weeks traditional process.
IMLC Eligibility Requirements:
- • State of principal licensure must be an IMLC member
- • No disciplinary orders on any state license
- • Board certified (or meeting IMLC GME standards)
- • No criminal history preventing licensure
Colorado Medical License Fee Structure
| Fee Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Initial Application Fee | $200–$600 (varies by state) |
| Fingerprint Processing | $25–$75 |
| DEA Registration | $888 (3 years) |
| FCVS Profile (if required) | $375 initial |
Fees subject to change. Verify current fees at the Colorado Medical Board website.
How Locums One Handles Colorado Licensing
For every physician we place in Colorado, Locums One handles the entire licensing and credentialing process at no cost:
Get the Colorado Medical License Guide PDF:
Already eligible for IMLC
Colorado is an IMLC member state. Pay us a $99 refundable deposit, we'll handle your full IMLC application — get Colorado + 40+ other state licenses in 3–4 weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions — Colorado Medical License
How long does it take to get a Colorado medical license?
The Colorado Medical Board typically processes applications in 6–10 weeks. IMLC compact members can obtain a Colorado license in 2–3 weeks through the expedited pathway. Locums One begins credentialing immediately upon engagement to minimize delays.
Is Colorado in the IMLC compact?
Colorado is an IMLC member state. Eligible physicians can obtain a Colorado license through the compact in 2–3 weeks instead of the standard 6–10 weeks traditional process.
Does Colorado require FCVS for medical licensure?
FCVS accepted but not required; board conducts primary source verification. While FCVS is not required, it can expedite the verification process.
What background check does Colorado require for medical licensure?
Colorado requires: FBI fingerprint. Background check results must be submitted directly to the Colorado Medical Board.
Can Locums One handle my Colorado medical license application?
Yes. Locums One handles all licensing and credentialing for placed physicians at no cost — including Colorado medical board applications, FCVS coordination, fingerprinting scheduling, and DEA registration. Our average credentialing time is 21 days (industry average: 60–90 days).
Do I need a separate DEA registration for Colorado?
Yes. DEA registration is state-specific. If you will be prescribing controlled substances in Colorado, you need a Colorado DEA registration in addition to your state medical license. DEA registration takes 2–4 weeks and costs $888 for a 3-year registration.
What CME requirements does Colorado have for medical license renewal?
Colorado requires continuing medical education (CME) for license renewal. Requirements vary by specialty and license type — check the Colorado Medical Board website for current CME requirements. Locums One tracks license expiration dates and prompts renewal 90 days in advance.
Is locum tenens work 1099 or W-2 in Colorado?
Most locum tenens physicians work as 1099 independent contractors in Colorado. You receive a 1099-NEC, handle your own quarterly estimated taxes, and access significant business deductions. has state income tax — factor this into your rate negotiations.