Step-by-Step: How to Get a Tennessee Medical License
Create Online Application Account
1–2 daysRegister with the Tennessee Board of Medical Examiners 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
6–10 weeksThe Tennessee 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: 6–10 weeks (standard) · 2–3 weeks (IMLC, if eligible)
Tennessee Medical License Requirements Checklist
Is Tennessee in the IMLC Compact for Locum Physicians?
Tennessee is an IMLC member state. Eligible physicians can obtain a Tennessee 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
Tennessee 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 Tennessee Board of Medical Examiners website.
How Locums One Handles Tennessee Licensing
For every physician we place in Tennessee, Locums One handles the entire licensing and credentialing process at no cost:
Get the Tennessee Medical License Guide PDF:
Already eligible for IMLC
Tennessee is an IMLC member state. Pay us a $99 refundable deposit, we'll handle your full IMLC application — get Tennessee + 40+ other state licenses in 3–4 weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions — Tennessee Medical License
How long does it take to get a Tennessee medical license?
The Tennessee Board of Medical Examiners typically processes applications in 6–10 weeks. IMLC compact members can obtain a Tennessee license in 2–3 weeks through the expedited pathway. Locums One begins credentialing immediately upon engagement to minimize delays.
Is Tennessee in the IMLC compact?
Tennessee is an IMLC member state. Eligible physicians can obtain a Tennessee license through the compact in 2–3 weeks instead of the standard 6–10 weeks traditional process.
Does Tennessee 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 Tennessee Board of Medical Examiners can complete primary source verification.
What background check does Tennessee require for medical licensure?
Tennessee requires: FBI fingerprint. Background check results must be submitted directly to the Tennessee Board of Medical Examiners.
Can Locums One handle my Tennessee medical license application?
Yes. Locums One handles all licensing and credentialing for placed physicians at no cost — including Tennessee 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 Tennessee?
Yes. DEA registration is state-specific. If you will be prescribing controlled substances in Tennessee, you need a Tennessee 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 Tennessee have for medical license renewal?
Tennessee requires continuing medical education (CME) for license renewal. Requirements vary by specialty and license type — check the Tennessee 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 Tennessee?
Most locum tenens physicians work as 1099 independent contractors in Tennessee. 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.