Graduate Medical Education–

California Medical License

U.S./Canadian Medical School Graduates

California requires that graduates of United States medical schools pass USMLE I, II, and III and complete one year of ACGME residency training that meets the general medicine requirements. U.S. graduates must be licensed by the first day of their third year of ACGME training.

Canadian medical school graduates are treated the same as U.S. graduates and must be licensed by the first day of their third year of ACGME training. However, it is not necessary to take the USMLE examinations. Canadian licensing examinations are recognized in California. Therefore, graduates of Canadian medical schools that have completed the Canadian license examinations and one year of ACGME residency are eligable to obtain a CA MD License. Canadians do not need an ECFMG certificate.

Applying for Initial Licensure: Step-by-Step Guide (PDF)
Applying for Initial Licensure: Step-by-Step Guide (Flash Video)

International Medical School Graduates (IMGs)

Graduates of international medical schools must possess a valid ECFMG certificate, pass USMLE III, and complete two years of ACGME residency. They must be licensed by the first day of their fourth year of residency.

IMGs seeking ACGME training at levels prior to their 4th year must provide a valid Postgraduate Training Authorization Letter from the Medical Board of California. Please see www.medbd.ca.gov for more information. IMGs must hold a valid ECFMG certificate to qualify for the Authorization Training Letter and a CA MD License.

Applying for Initial Licensure: Step-by-Step Guide (coming soon)

PLEASE NOTE
  • There is no training or temporary license in California.
  • Years of residency refers to actual years of training rather than PGY.
  • Trainees entering non-ACGME programs must possess a valid CA Medical License before starting training. There is no period of "grace" to obtain a CA MD License.
  • Please allow at least 6 months to obtain a Postgraduate Training Authorization Letter or a CA MD License. The application process can not be expedited.
  • Visiting residents from outside California may participate in ACMGE residencies as "visitors" for up to 90 days without a CA MD License.
  • Special programs:
    • Section 2111 can be used for fellows/clinical instructors who are not able to obtain a CA MD License for incidental patient contact under some circumstances.
    • Section 2113 can be used for full time faculty who are not able to obtain a CA MD License under some circumstances. It may not be used for physicians in advanced training.
    • Section 2168 is a faculty permit.

Please see www.medbd.ca.gov for more detailed information.

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