Upon completion of medical school and during the first year of residency, the final section of the United States Medical Licensing Examination is taken. Medical licensure can then be obtained. Following residency, Board Certification is obtained by completion of a written examination conducted by the Specialty Board.

Licensure is by the State Board of Medical Examiners and Board Certification is through National Specialty Boards. Family Medicine requires re-certification by re-examination every seven years. To maintain certification in family practice, 50 hours of continuing education credit is also required annually.