How to become a physician in Idaho
Requirements for Idaho Physician License
What are the requirements to become a physician in Idaho?
The practice of medicine is regulated by the State of Idaho. This means that there is a state board that issues licenses to qualified individuals and regulates the profession. To practice as a physician in Idaho, you must obtain a license from the Idaho Board of Medicine (IBM). It is a felony to practice medicine without a license in Idaho. Conviction could result in imprisonment and/or a fine of up to $10,000.
Applicants for licensure by examination must:
- Be able to speak, read and write in English
- Graduate from medical school
- Pass the United States Medical Licensing Exam or other licensing exam
- Complete one year of post-grad training
Applicants for licensure by endorsement must meet the requirements listed above as well as:
- A valid license to practice medicine and surgery in another state
- Certification by the National Board of Medical Examiners
or demonstrate the same standard of health care provided by licensed physicians in Idaho
How do I become a licensed physician in Idaho?
If an applicant meets the requirements listed above, they may visit the Federation of State Medical Boards website, form an account, and submit the Uniform Application for Licensure as a Physician.
How much does the physician license cost?
The application for licensure: $500. Renewal fee for physician/surgeon or osteopathic physician/surgeon: $250
Are there any continuing education requirements for Idaho physicians?
Physicians must complete forty hours of continuing medical education every two years.
What else do I need to know to start an Idaho medical practice?
In addition to having your physicians license, you may want to form a business entity with the Idaho Secretary of State and start your own medical practice. Idaho does not require physicians to set up any type of entity. But setting up a business with the Secretary of State offers benefits and liability protections for physicians. In addition to standard corporations and limited liability companies, Idaho allows physicians to set up professional corporations (PC) as well as professional limited liability companies (PLLC). These entities allow licensed individuals to form a corporation or LLC for the purpose of practicing their profession. Shareholders must also be licensed physicians.
Idaho does not require businesses to indicate the type of service they perform in the business name.