How to Get a Florida Osteopathic Medical License

Becoming a licensed osteopathic physician in Florida is a rewarding yet complex process. The Florida Board of Osteopathic Medicine (under the Department of Health) regulates licensing requirements to ensure that all applicants meet the necessary educational, examination, and ethical standards. Whether you’re a recent medical school graduate or a practicing physician relocating to Florida, it’s essential to understand the process and avoid potential pitfalls that could delay or jeopardize your license.

At Howell, Buchan & Strong, our legal team specializes in guiding healthcare professionals through the licensing process, ensuring compliance with Florida’s strict regulatory standards. Here’s a brief guide on how to obtain your Florida osteopathic medical license.

Step 1: Meet the Educational Requirements

To apply for a Florida osteopathic medical license, you must have completed a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degree from a college accredited by the Commission on Osteopathic College Accreditation (COCA). Additionally, applicants must have successfully completed an approved internship, residency, or fellowship program.

Step 2: Pass the Required Exams

Applicants must pass the following exams:

• Comprehensive Osteopathic Medical Licensing Examination (COMLEX-USA)
  • Level 1
  • Level 2-CE (Cognitive Evaluation)
  • Level 2-PE (Performance Evaluation)
  • Level 3

The COMLEX Examination is administered by the National Board of Osteopathic Medical Examiners (NBOME) and is required for licensure and graduation from accredited osteopathic medical colleges. 

Step 3: Submit an Application to the Florida Board of Osteopathic Medicine

The licensing process begins with applying to the Florida Department of Health (DOH). You must:

• Complete the application online via the Florida Health Medical Quality Assurance (MQA) Portal.
• Pay the required application fees (typically around $500, but subject to change).
• Submit proof of education, training, and examination completion.
• Provide documentation of postgraduate training programs.
• Pass a fingerprint-based criminal background check.

Dive deeper into our helpful tip on the DOH’s requirement for a digitally certified self-query report. 

Step 4: Undergo a Background Check

Applicants must undergo a Level 2 background screening, which includes fingerprinting through a DOH-approved provider. If you have past criminal charges or disciplinary actions from another state, legal guidance from a professional health care attorney is highly recommended to address potential licensing issues. Learn more about How to Survive a Background Check. 

Step 5: Verify Previous Licenses and Work History

If you have held medical licenses in other states or jurisdictions, you must submit License Verification Forms to confirm your professional standing. Any disciplinary actions, malpractice claims, or gaps in work history must be disclosed and explained. Failure to disclose prior incidents can lead to delays or denials.

Step 6: Address Deficiency Letter

A Deficiency Letter is a formal notice from the Florida Board of Osteopathic Medicine indicating that your license application is missing required information or documentation. 

Don’t be alarmed; receiving one doesn’t mean your application is denied—it simply means additional documentation is needed. Responding to this request must be handled properly and promptly. A licensing attorney can help you respond strategically, ensuring your materials are complete and avoiding unnecessary delays in obtaining your Florida osteopathic medical license. Read more about Common Problems with License Applications.

Step 7: Await Board Review and Approval

Once all documentation is submitted, the Florida Board of Osteopathic Medicine will review your application. If there are no issues, approval can take several weeks to a few months. You may need to appear before the board if concerns arise (e.g., background issues, prior disciplinary actions). As a part of this formal process, you may be required to give testimony under oath – we recommend having legal representation if you are asked to appear. 

Step 8: Obtain Your License and Begin Practice

After approval, you will receive your official Florida osteopathic medical license. To maintain your license, you must:

• Complete continuing medical education (CME) requirements every two years.
• Renew your license by the board’s specified deadline.
• Stay compliant with all Florida medical regulations.

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

1. Failure to Disclose Prior Issues

If you have prior disciplinary actions, malpractice claims, or criminal history, be upfront about them. Failure to disclose can result in future license revocation, so it pays to err on the side of caution and be forthright in disclosing prior issues. A legal team can help navigate these issues before they become obstacles.

2. Delays Due to Missing Documentation

Ensure all required documents are submitted correctly and promptly to avoid unnecessary delays. Again, prompt response to a deficiency letter and providing the requested documentation is key to avoiding this pitfall.  

3. Applying Without Legal Assistance When Needed

Applying without legal assistance can lead to unexpected delays if you’re unaware of potential red flags in your application. Consulting with an experienced legal team from the start allows you to anticipate and proactively address issues, saving time, reducing stress, and increasing your chances of a smooth path to licensure.

Obtaining a Florida osteopathic medical license is a detailed process that requires careful attention to legal and regulatory requirements. At Howell, Buchan & Strong, we specialize in helping healthcare professionals navigate licensing challenges, ensuring they meet all state requirements while avoiding common pitfalls.

If you need legal guidance for your Florida osteopathic medical license application, contact us today for expert assistance.