What you need to know about the IMLC.
Providing care in multiple states is easier thanks to the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact (IMLC). Here’s what you need to know about the Compact, what states are involved, and how it impacts you.
Click here to go directly to our IMLC states map.
What is the IMLC?
The Interstate Medical Licensure Compact (IMLC) is an agreement between multiple U.S. states and territories, providing an expedited pathway for physicians to obtain licenses to practice in multiple states. It allows the participating states and territories to more freely share licensing information using a streamlined process. In turn, the Compact makes it easier for physicians reach to the patients who need them most.
The IMLC is overseen by the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact Commission, a group of state medical board executives, administrators, and attorneys from each of the participating states.
It is important to note that the IMLC is not a license. It is a system that simplifies the process of obtaining licenses in multiple regions with a single application.
Questions regarding the current status and extent of these states’ and boards’ participation in the IMLC can be directed to the respective state boards.
What states are in the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact?
The IMLC states map below shows states in the U.S. currently accepting applications for expedited licensure. Current members of the Compact include 41 states, the territory of Guam, and the District of Columbia.
Updated 4/4/2025.
What does the IMLC mean for me?
For physicians, the IMLC means freedom – to easily and quickly work in different states and serve populations who need you. Most U.S. states and territories have agreed to the terms of the IMLC (see map above for details).
If you want to practice medicine in multiple states or territories, the IMLC can help you gain the necessary licenses faster and with fewer roadblocks.
“The biggest benefit for physicians will be the decrease in time it will take to receive licenses in multiple states, particularly, those physicians involved in telemedicine, locum tenens practices, and providing access to quality care in rural areas of the country.”
Do I qualify for the IMLC?
Approximately 80% of U.S. physicians meet the IMLC’s criteria. To participate, you must first apply to the Compact in the member state you live and commonly practice in, known as the State of Principal License (SLP). To qualify, at least one of the following criteria must apply:
- Your primary residence is in the SPL (State of Principal License).
- At least 25% of your practice of medicine occurs in the SPL.
- You are employed to practice medicine by a person, business, or organization located in the SPL.
- You use the SPL as your state of residence for U.S. Federal Income Tax purposes.
In addition, you must also meet certain criteria (see below).
You must:
Have graduated from an accredited medical school, or a school listed in the International Medical Education Directory or its equivalent.
Have successfully completed ACGME- or AOA-accredited graduate medical education.
Passed each component of the USMLE, COMLEX-USA, or equivalent in no more than three attempts for each component.
Hold a current specialty certification or time-unlimited certification by an ABMS or AOABOS board.
You must not:
Have any history of disciplinary actions toward their medical license.
Have any criminal history.
Have any history of controlled substance actions toward their medical license.
Currently be under investigation.
Once approved, you’ll receive a separate license from each state you plan to practice in. By eliminating the need for multiple applications, wait time for licensing is drastically reduced.
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