Physician or Medical Doctor License in Louisiana
Quick Answer
To become a licensed physician in Louisiana, you need graduation from an approved medical school, one year of internship (US graduates) or three years of residency (international graduates), and USMLE passage. Contact the Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners for current fees.
- Exam
- USMLE Steps 1-3
- Timeline
- 3-6 months after residency completion
- Background Check
- Required
- Renewal
- Every Annual
Requirements
Physician or Medical Doctor license in Louisiana
Physician or Medical Doctor Salary in Louisiana
Entry Level
$126,400
Median
$239,200
Experienced
$239,200
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salary data is for informational purposes only.
How to Get Licensed
Step-by-step roadmap to becoming a licensed Physician or Medical Doctor in Louisiana.
- 1
Complete Education Requirements
Degree required
- 2
Submit Background Check
Background check required
- 3
Pass the Required Exam
Third-party exam required — USMLE Steps 1-3
- 4
Submit Your Application
File your application with the licensing agency.
- 5
Receive Your License
Processing typically takes 3-6 months after residency completion.
Physician or Medical Doctor Licensing in Louisiana: What to Know
Louisiana requires graduation from an approved medical school or equivalent, one year of internship for American graduates or three years of residency for international graduates, and passage of the USMLE examination. The Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners under the Department of Health oversees physician licensure. Continuing education is required to maintain the license.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long does it take to get a Physician or Medical Doctor license in Louisiana?
- The process typically takes 3-6 months after residency completion, depending on education completion and exam scheduling.
- What exam do I need for a Physician or Medical Doctor license in Louisiana?
- You need to pass the USMLE Steps 1-3. Third-party exam required
Considering another state?
Compare Physician or Medical Doctor requirements across states.
View all states →Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 15, 2026.