Foreign doctors legally practicing medicine in their native countries are not automatically qualified to practice medicine in the United States. They have to obtain a license in the USA in order to be qualified. These are the required steps to follow:
- Take Certification exams provided by the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG). The purpose of ECFMG Certification is to evaluate knowledge and qualification of foreign medical graduates and their readiness to enter U.S. residency and fellowship programs accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME). A candidate must pass a series of exams meeting ECFMG's medical educational credential requirements. ECFMG performs medical credential educational evaluation based on the documents provided by the candidate and confirming all credentials directly with candidate’s medical school. Credential evaluation of foreign medical graduates is performed exclusively by the ECFMG.
- Pass a residency training program.
- Pass the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE).
- Apply for a license or licenses to practice medicine in a particular state(s). Medical practice is governed by state statutes and rules.
