Licensure to practice medicine is done by:

Licensure to practice medicine is done by:

• A. Each individual state
• B. Federal government
• C. Hospitals
• D. Professional associations

Answer: (A)

Licensure to practice medicine is granted by each state’s medical board. In the United States, the authority to license physicians rests with state governments, and each state sets its own requirements for medical education verification, exams (such as the USMLE or COMLEX), background checks, and ongoing competence through continuing medical education. This state-based system ensures physicians meet the standards defined for practicing within that state’s borders. The federal government does not issue medical licenses; it may regulate practice in federal facilities or oversee federal programs, but licensure remains a state function. Hospitals may grant privileges to treat patients and experience-based credentials, but those privileges do not authorize legal licensure. Specialty certifications by professional associations are voluntary and do not substitute for state licensure.

Licensure to practice medicine is granted by each state’s medical board. In the United States, the authority to license physicians rests with state governments, and each state sets its own requirements for medical education verification, exams (such as the USMLE or COMLEX), background checks, and ongoing competence through continuing medical education. This state-based system ensures physicians meet the standards defined for practicing within that state’s borders. The federal government does not issue medical licenses; it may regulate practice in federal facilities or oversee federal programs, but licensure remains a state function. Hospitals may grant privileges to treat patients and experience-based credentials, but those privileges do not authorize legal licensure. Specialty certifications by professional associations are voluntary and do not substitute for state licensure.