Step-by-Step: How to Get a Pennsylvania Medical License
Create Online Application Account
1–2 daysRegister with the Pennsylvania State Board of Medicine online portal and begin your application. Gather all required documents before starting.
Submit FCVS Profile
2–4 weeksFCVS profile required for initial licensure; PA-CDS controlled substance license also required. 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: PA PATCH ($22, ~5 days) + FBI fingerprint via IdentoGO. 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
30–45 daysThe Pennsylvania State Board of 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: 30–45 days (standard) · 2–3 weeks (IMLC, if eligible)
Pennsylvania Medical License Requirements Checklist
Is Pennsylvania in the IMLC Compact for Locum Physicians?
Pennsylvania is not yet an IMLC member state. Physicians must use the traditional application process (30–45 days). Monitor imlcc.org for membership updates.
Pennsylvania Medical License Fee Structure
| Fee Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Initial Application Fee | $35 |
| PA PATCH Background Check | $22 |
| FBI Fingerprint (IdentoGO) | $23.85 |
| DEA Registration | $888 (3 years) |
| FCVS Profile | $375 initial |
Fees subject to change. Verify current fees at the Pennsylvania State Board of Medicine website.
How Locums One Handles Pennsylvania Licensing
For every physician we place in Pennsylvania, Locums One handles the entire licensing and credentialing process at no cost:
Get the Pennsylvania Medical License Guide PDF:
Pennsylvania 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 — Pennsylvania Medical License
How long does it take to get a Pennsylvania medical license?
The Pennsylvania State Board of Medicine typically processes applications in 30–45 days. Locums One begins credentialing immediately upon engagement to minimize delays.
Is Pennsylvania in the IMLC compact?
Pennsylvania is not yet an IMLC member state. Physicians must use the traditional application process (30–45 days). Monitor imlcc.org for membership updates.
Does Pennsylvania require FCVS for medical licensure?
Yes. FCVS profile required for initial licensure; PA-CDS controlled substance license also required. FCVS profiles must be submitted to the Federation of State Medical Boards before the Pennsylvania State Board of Medicine can complete primary source verification.
What background check does Pennsylvania require for medical licensure?
Pennsylvania requires: PA PATCH ($22, ~5 days) + FBI fingerprint via IdentoGO. Background check results must be submitted directly to the Pennsylvania State Board of Medicine.
Can Locums One handle my Pennsylvania medical license application?
Yes. Locums One handles all licensing and credentialing for placed physicians at no cost — including Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania?
Yes. DEA registration is state-specific. If you will be prescribing controlled substances in Pennsylvania, you need a Pennsylvania 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 Pennsylvania have for medical license renewal?
Pennsylvania requires continuing medical education (CME) for license renewal. Requirements vary by specialty and license type — check the Pennsylvania State Board of 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 Pennsylvania?
Most locum tenens physicians work as 1099 independent contractors in Pennsylvania. 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.