Step-by-Step: How to Get a Louisiana Medical License
Create Online Application Account
1–2 daysRegister with the Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners online portal and begin your application. Gather all required documents before starting.
Submit FCVS Profile
2–4 weeksFCVS profile required; board accepts FCVS primary source verification. Submit your FCVS profile to the Federation of State Medical Boards. FCVS verifies your medical education, training, and examination history.
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
8–12 weeksThe Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners 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: 8–12 weeks (standard) · 2–3 weeks (IMLC, if eligible)
Louisiana Medical License Requirements Checklist
Is Louisiana in the IMLC Compact for Locum Physicians?
Louisiana is an IMLC member state. Eligible physicians can obtain a Louisiana license through the compact in 2–3 weeks instead of the standard 8–12 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
Louisiana 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 Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners website.
How Locums One Handles Louisiana Licensing
For every physician we place in Louisiana, Locums One handles the entire licensing and credentialing process at no cost:
Get the Louisiana Medical License Guide PDF:
Already eligible for IMLC
Louisiana is an IMLC member state. Pay us a $99 refundable deposit, we'll handle your full IMLC application — get Louisiana + 40+ other state licenses in 3–4 weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions — Louisiana Medical License
How long does it take to get a Louisiana medical license?
The Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners typically processes applications in 8–12 weeks. IMLC compact members can obtain a Louisiana license in 2–3 weeks through the expedited pathway. Locums One begins credentialing immediately upon engagement to minimize delays.
Is Louisiana in the IMLC compact?
Louisiana is an IMLC member state. Eligible physicians can obtain a Louisiana license through the compact in 2–3 weeks instead of the standard 8–12 weeks traditional process.
Does Louisiana require FCVS for medical licensure?
Yes. FCVS profile required; board accepts FCVS primary source verification. FCVS profiles must be submitted to the Federation of State Medical Boards before the Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners can complete primary source verification.
What background check does Louisiana require for medical licensure?
Louisiana requires: FBI fingerprint. Background check results must be submitted directly to the Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners.
Can Locums One handle my Louisiana medical license application?
Yes. Locums One handles all licensing and credentialing for placed physicians at no cost — including Louisiana 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 Louisiana?
Yes. DEA registration is state-specific. If you will be prescribing controlled substances in Louisiana, you need a Louisiana 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 Louisiana have for medical license renewal?
Louisiana requires continuing medical education (CME) for license renewal. Requirements vary by specialty and license type — check the Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners 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 Louisiana?
Most locum tenens physicians work as 1099 independent contractors in Louisiana. 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.