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