Step-by-Step: How to Get a New York Medical License
Create Online Application Account
1–2 daysRegister with the New York State Board for Medicine online portal and begin your application. Gather all required documents before starting.
Submit FCVS Profile
2–4 weeksFCVS profile required for initial licensure. 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
12–20 weeksThe New York State Board for 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: 12–20 weeks (standard) · 2–3 weeks (IMLC, if eligible)
New York Medical License Requirements Checklist
Is New York in the IMLC Compact for Locum Physicians?
New York is not yet an IMLC member state. Physicians must use the traditional application process (12–20 weeks). Monitor imlcc.org for membership updates.
New York Medical License Fee Structure
| Fee Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Initial Application Fee | $735 |
| Fingerprint Processing | $101.75 |
| DEA Registration | $888 (3 years) |
| FCVS Profile | $375 initial |
Fees subject to change. Verify current fees at the New York State Board for Medicine website.
How Locums One Handles New York Licensing
For every physician we place in New York, Locums One handles the entire licensing and credentialing process at no cost:
Get the New York Medical License Guide PDF:
New York isn't IMLC — but you can still go multi-state
Apply to the Locums One Bench. We'll surface gigs in your home state plus the IMLC compact states (40+ states) where you can fast-track licensure.
Frequently Asked Questions — New York Medical License
How long does it take to get a New York medical license?
The New York State Board for Medicine typically processes applications in 12–20 weeks. Locums One begins credentialing immediately upon engagement to minimize delays.
Is New York in the IMLC compact?
New York is not yet an IMLC member state. Physicians must use the traditional application process (12–20 weeks). Monitor imlcc.org for membership updates.
Does New York require FCVS for medical licensure?
Yes. FCVS profile required for initial licensure. FCVS profiles must be submitted to the Federation of State Medical Boards before the New York State Board for Medicine can complete primary source verification.
What background check does New York require for medical licensure?
New York requires: FBI fingerprint. Background check results must be submitted directly to the New York State Board for Medicine.
Can Locums One handle my New York medical license application?
Yes. Locums One handles all licensing and credentialing for placed physicians at no cost — including New York 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 New York?
Yes. DEA registration is state-specific. If you will be prescribing controlled substances in New York, you need a New York 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 New York have for medical license renewal?
New York requires continuing medical education (CME) for license renewal. Requirements vary by specialty and license type — check the New York State Board for 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 New York?
Most locum tenens physicians work as 1099 independent contractors in New York. 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.