Interstate Medical Licensure Compact: What It Means for You
Physicians
Workforce
Locum Tenens
The Interstate Medical Licensure Compact (IMLC) speeds up and simplifies the process of obtaining a medical license in additional states. Currently, 42 states, plus Washington D.C. and Guam, participate in the compact. Physicians who qualify can obtain a new license in an average of 19 days, with 51% of licenses issued within a week. Whether you practice locum tenens, deliver telemedicine across state lines, or simply want more flexibility in where you work, here is what you need to know about how the IMLC works, who qualifies, and how to apply.
Just getting started in locums? Getting started in locum tenens: a beginner's guide
Just getting started in locums? Getting started in locum tenens: a beginner's guide
IMLC States
As of March 2026, the following states accept applications for expedited licensure
- Alabama
- Arizona
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- District of Columbia
- Florida
- Georgia
- Guam
- Hawaii*
- Idaho
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Louisiana
- Maine
- Maryland
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- Montana
- Nebraska
- Nevada
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- North Carolina
- North Dakota
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- Pennsylvania
- South Dakota
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Utah
- Vermont*
- Washington
- West Virginia
- Wisconsin
- Wyoming
Note: Hawaii and Vermont are not States of Principal Licensure. You cannot enter the compact through a Hawaii or Vermont license. However, once you have entered the compact through another SPL state, you can obtain a license for either of these states.
States with legislation passed but implementation pending: Arkansas, New Mexico, Rhode Island.
States with legislation introduced: Alaska, Massachusetts.
States with legislation passed but implementation pending: Arkansas, New Mexico, Rhode Island.
States with legislation introduced: Alaska, Massachusetts.
Qualifying for Interstate Medical Licensure Compact (IMLC)
To determine if you qualify, review the requirements on the IMLC's qualification page.
How Does the IMLC Application Process Work?
Step 1: Confirm Eligibility Review the requirements above and confirm your SPL state is a compact member.
Step 2: Submit Your Application Apply through your SPL's medical board. The process includes identity and credential verification and a background check. The application fee is $700, non-refundable. Some SPLs charge additional fees. Apply at the IMLC Apply page.
Step 3: Receive Your Letter of Qualification (LOQ) Once approved, your SPL issues an LOQ confirming your eligibility. It is valid for 365 days.
Step 4: Apply for Licenses in Other States Use your LOQ to apply for licenses in other compact states. Each state sets its own licensing fee and may require additional steps, such as a jurisprudence exam.
Benefits of the IMLC
- Faster licensing across multiple states, with an average turnaround of 19 days.
- More flexibility for locum tenens work and telemedicine across state lines.
- Better access to physicians in rural and underserved areas.
Limitations of the IMLC
- Each state still has its own fees, exams, and continuing education requirements.
- Every compact license must be renewed individually.
- Physicians with disciplinary actions or license restrictions are not eligible.
For more information about the compact, visit the IMLCC’s website.
Frequently Asked Questions
The average wait time is 19 days. Half of all licenses are issued within a week. Complete, accurate documentation is the fastest way to avoid delays.
The IMLC is for physicians (MDs and DOs) only. If you are an NP or CRNA, the APRN Compact is the relevant pathway, allowing Advanced Practice Registered Nurses to hold a single multistate license across participating states. PAs are covered under the PA Licensure Compact, which has been enacted by several states and is currently in the process of full implementation.
Yes. The IMLC provides an expedited pathway to obtain licenses across multiple member states, making it easier for physicians to legally practice telemedicine across state lines. The process is faster than applying to each state board individually, but you do need to meet the IMLC eligibility requirements and hold a license in a designated State of Principal License to qualify.
