The licensing process involves the collection of credentials from the applicant and from other sources. Once all materials are submitted, the Board’s staff will review them. It may be necessary for the staff to request additional information, and/or return any times that may need corrections or clarifications. Our goal is to review materials as quickly as possible, but we must be thorough. You should not expect the entire process to take less than four months from the time your application is received by the NCMB. Processing does not begin until all application fees have been paid online.

Please note and adhere to the following guidelines:
1. Processing time will take longer during the months of March through August, due to the increased number of residents and relocating physicians. We recommend you allow four to six months of total processing time if you wish to obtain a license during these months.

2. You should submit your fingerprint cards and authority to release form as soon as possible so that a background check request can be made. Your fingerprint cards cannot be forwarded to the SBI until payment has been made online. Once we receive payment, you will not be able to return to your application to make corrections. Credentials received prior to the completion of your application will be held in our office for one year.

3. If you have been named in any malpractice suits or have answered “yes” to any question on your application, anticipate the possibility that additional information and an interview may be required.

4. It is recommended that you not make practice commitments prematurely.

5. Without a medical license, you cannot practice as a physician in North Carolina. Do not make commitments on loans, practice start dates, home purchases, etc., until you have been granted a license to practice medicine in North Carolina.

6. State law only allows staff to speak to the applicant about the application. Relatives, staff members, future employers or placement services can not be informed about the status of your application.

7. If you wish to exit the application at any time, please do so by clicking on the ‘Logout’ button at the bottom of the page. This will save all the date that you have entered.

8. You can check the status of your application by clicking on the ‘Check Status’ link. Once you have submitted your application, it will take up to 15 days before the information on your status is up to date. You will need to know your File ID number and your date of birth to access this information. Your File ID number will be given to you once you start the application.

Application credentials and fee are good for 1 year.  If you are not issued a license within the year and choose to reapply for a NC license, you will be required to resubmit all application credentials and the application fee.

Note: State law will only allow us to speak with the applicant regarding the application. However, you may give your login information for checking the status online to whomever you choose.

The NC Medical Board will be unable to return original or photocopies of applications materials once received.