Texas joins Interstate Medical Licensure Compact

Sara Bergmanson

Move streamlines the process of applying for medical licenses in multiple states

Disclaimer: Physicians interested in multi-state licensure should closely review the full list of requirements available on the IMLC website before applying. Physicians should also be aware that licensure in multiple states requires compliance with laws and regulations for those states. Exercise caution before applying for licensure in other states to avoid accidental violation of any state-specific laws or rules you may not be familiar with.

Please discuss any potential changes with your underwriter to understand how this may affect coverage availability with TMLT.

As of March 1, 2022, the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact (IMLC)— which offers an expedited pathway to licensure for physicians who want to practice in multiple states — is now accepting applications from qualified Texas physicians and physicians who want to practice in Texas.

The Compact eliminates the need to manage multiple license applications and communicate with more than one state medical board. Licenses are still issued by the individual states in which you intend to practice, and the states chosen must already participate in the Compact.

The Compact currently includes 34 states, with Texas being the 33^rdstate to join. Applying through the Compact is voluntary and only offered to eligible physicians who meet specific requirements.

The full list of requirements is outlined on the “Information for Physicians” page on the imlcc.org website. The Texas Medical Board strongly urges physicians to review the full list of requirements to ensure qualifications can be met before applying.

A complete list of application steps along with informative videos to assist in the process can be found here. You can also read Compact, Policies, Rules and Laws.

Texas’ Compact licensing was made possible by House Bill 1616, which was passed by the 87^th Texas Legislature.

Risk management considerations

Physicians interested in multi-state licensure should closely review the full list of requirements available on the IMLC website before applying. Physicians should also be aware that licensure in multiple states requires compliance with laws and regulations for those states. Exercise caution before applying for licensure in other states to avoid accidental violation of any state-specific laws or rules you may not be familiar with.