Step-by-Step: How to Get a Massachusetts Medical License
Create Online Application Account
1–2 daysRegister with the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine online portal and begin your application. Gather all required documents before starting.
Submit FCVS Profile
2–4 weeksFCVS profile required; board conducts additional independent 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
10–16 weeksThe Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine 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: 10–16 weeks (standard) · 2–3 weeks (IMLC, if eligible)
Massachusetts Medical License Requirements Checklist
Is Massachusetts in the IMLC Compact for Locum Physicians?
Massachusetts is an IMLC member state. Eligible physicians can obtain a Massachusetts license through the compact in 2–3 weeks instead of the standard 10–16 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
Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine website.
How Locums One Handles Massachusetts Licensing
For every physician we place in Massachusetts, Locums One handles the entire licensing and credentialing process at no cost:
Get the Massachusetts Medical License Guide PDF:
Already eligible for IMLC
Massachusetts is an IMLC member state. Pay us a $99 refundable deposit, we'll handle your full IMLC application — get Massachusetts + 40+ other state licenses in 3–4 weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions — Massachusetts Medical License
How long does it take to get a Massachusetts medical license?
The Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine typically processes applications in 10–16 weeks. IMLC compact members can obtain a Massachusetts license in 2–3 weeks through the expedited pathway. Locums One begins credentialing immediately upon engagement to minimize delays.
Is Massachusetts in the IMLC compact?
Massachusetts is an IMLC member state. Eligible physicians can obtain a Massachusetts license through the compact in 2–3 weeks instead of the standard 10–16 weeks traditional process.
Does Massachusetts require FCVS for medical licensure?
Yes. FCVS profile required; board conducts additional independent verification. FCVS profiles must be submitted to the Federation of State Medical Boards before the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine can complete primary source verification.
What background check does Massachusetts require for medical licensure?
Massachusetts requires: FBI fingerprint. Background check results must be submitted directly to the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine.
Can Locums One handle my Massachusetts medical license application?
Yes. Locums One handles all licensing and credentialing for placed physicians at no cost — including Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts?
Yes. DEA registration is state-specific. If you will be prescribing controlled substances in Massachusetts, you need a Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts have for medical license renewal?
Massachusetts requires continuing medical education (CME) for license renewal. Requirements vary by specialty and license type — check the Massachusetts Board of Registration in Medicine 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 Massachusetts?
Most locum tenens physicians work as 1099 independent contractors in Massachusetts. 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.