Frequently Asked Questions: Initial Licensing
1.	How much does an application for license cost in Arizona?
		The application fee is $400; you have to send this amount with the application. In addition, if your application is approved, you then have to pay the pro-rated license issuance fee (see Question #2). You are also responsible for paying any fees States or hospitals might charge for primary sources verifications (see Question #3), or the NBOME might charge for examination transcripts if you needed them (see Question # 7).
2.	How much does the initial issuance of a license cost?
		The initial license fee is pro-rated; it costs $15.90 for each month, starting with the month you request issuance, and ending in December of the calendar year. Depending on when you request issuance, the fee ranges from $190.80 in January, to $15.90 in December. After December, you need to renew the license to continue practicing (see #13)
3.	How long does the application process take?
		On average, it takes between 45 to 90 days to collect all of the supporting documentation needed to complete your application. After all the documents have been colleted, your application is reviewed by the Executive Director to determine if you meet the standards for licensure. If there is any question about your qualifications, you will be required to appear before the Board for an interview to determine whether you meet the AZ standards. The period for the Executive Director’s and Board’s review of your qualification ranges from a few days to several months, because the Board only meets 8 times a year.
4.	What are the requirements for licensure in Arizona?
		The basic requirements are that you 1) graduated from an approved osteopathic medical school; 2) completed an internship or PGY1 of a multiple year internship or residency 3) passed an approved national licensing exams (see # 6 and 7, below), 4) are physical, mentally, and emotionally capable of practicing, and 5) have no history of unprofessional or criminal conduct, or are rehabilitated from such conduct. For specific requirements, refer to the statutes and rules on the Board’s web site: www.azdo.gov
5.	Is an allopathic residency accepted for osteopathic licensure in Arizona ?
		Yes. The first post-graduate year of either an AOA or AMA approved residency in any specialty meet the PGY requirement for licensure.
6.	Does Arizona have reciprocity with other states?
		Not by that name. Instead, AZ allows doctors to be licensed based on “continuous practice.” If you passed your licensing exam more than 7 years ago, and you have been in advanced training (residency or fellowship) or in practice continuously from the date of your first license in any State, you can substitute “continuous practice” for having recent exam scores. You use the same application form; staff knows that, if the date of your last exam was more than 7 years ago, your practice history is checked for continuity.
7.	Do I have to send in my National Board Exam scores?
		That depends on how long it has been since you passed Level 3 of the exam. If you passed Level 3 within the past 7 years, you need to send in an original transcript from the National Board of Osteopathic Examiners showing all three scores. You are responsible for paying the fee for the transcript. If it has been more than 7 since you passed Level 3 (or any other exam) you are not required to send in the scores (see Question #6), but you will need to list the exam, the scores, and the dates on your application.
8.	Will the Arizona Board of Osteopathic Examiners accept faxed verifications for my application?
		Yes.
9.	How does using the FCVS help in the processing of my application?
		The FCVS verifies all education and National Board Exam scores. If you use the FCVS and we receive their information, the Arizona Board of Osteopathic Examiners will not need to query those entities. You are responsible for paying any fees involved with using the FCVS.
10.	Will I receive updates regarding the status of my application?
		Yes. About every 30 days, you will be sent a letter telling you what documents have not yet been received. If there are issues about your qualifications, or if you are required to appear before the Board, you will be notified in writing.
11.	Can someone else check on the status of my application?
		Yes, if you the name of person or facility you authorize to receive information on the status of your application (page 2 of application form). However, all written correspondence regarding issues concerning your qualifications (see #10) will only be sent directly to you, the applicant.
12.	Do I get my license number as soon as my application is approved?
		No. Arizona has a two stage process. The first stage is the application stage; at its end your status is “approved applicant.” The second stage is the issuance stage. As an approved applicant, you then request issuance of your license by completing the “Request for Issuance of License” form and paying the prorated issuance fee.
13.	How long is my initial license valid?
		Your initial license is valid from the date the Board staff receives your Request for Issuance form and your payment of the initial licensing fee (see #2). Your license is valid until the end of the calendar year in which it was issued. Even if it is issued in December, it is only valid until the end of the year, December 31. Then it must be renewed (see # 15-25, below). However, under AZ law, there is an automatic grace period of four months (until May 1) until your license officially expires. Your wallet card license shows that May 1 expiration date.
14.	Does Arizona have a temporary license?
		Not by that name. Instead, AZ has a Locum Tenens registration that is good for 90 days. The combined application and issuance fee is $300. It can be extended once for an additional and contiguous 90 days upon written request and payment of an additional $300 fee.
15.	Do I get my DEA license through your office?
		No. You need to contact the DEA at (602) 664-5831.
16.	Do I have to apply to Register to Dispense from my office?
		You only need to register if you are dispensing medications (other than samples) from your office. “Dispensing” means keeping a supply of drugs and devices at your office, and filling the prescription at your office—in effect, running a pharmacy within your practice. If you only write prescriptions for patients to fill elsewhere, you do NOT need to register.