Interstate Medical Licensure Compact (IMLC) Expansion for Pennsylvania MD/DO Physicians
On July 7, 2025, Pennsylvania will fully implement its participation in the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact (IMLC), allowing MD and DO physicians licensed in the Commonwealth to use Pennsylvania as their State of Principal Licensure (SPL). This marks a significant development in medical licensure reform, opening the door for qualified Pennsylvania physicians to obtain expedited licenses to practice in over 40 other states participating in the Compact.
The IMLC is an agreement among states to streamline the licensing process for physicians who want to practice in multiple jurisdictions. Rather than applying separately to each state, eligible physicians apply for a “letter of qualification” from their SPL, which allows them to obtain additional licenses more quickly and with less redundancy. This system maintains high standards while reducing administrative delays, making it easier for physicians to serve patients across state lines.
For physicians in Pennsylvania, this change means a faster, more efficient path to multistate practice. Starting July 7, they can apply for a letter of qualification from the Pennsylvania State Board of Medicine or Osteopathic Medicine and then seek licensure in other Compact states without having to go through the traditional application process in each jurisdiction. This could be especially beneficial for physicians involved in telemedicine, locums work, or practicing near state borders. Physicians should keep in mind that the IMLC and obtaining a letter of qualification does not give them the automatic ability to practice medicine in other IMLC states–they still need to apply for licensure from the relevant state licensing board, but with the implementation of the IMLC, that process should be faster and easier.
In addition, physicians should be aware of certain compliance requirements. In order to obtain a Pennsylvania license through the Compact or to use Pennsylvania as an SPL, applicants must complete three hours of education in child abuse recognition and reporting and four hours related to pain management and opioid prescribing. In addition, Compact licensees must continue to comply with all state-specific requirements in each jurisdiction where they hold a license, including ethics, disciplinary procedures, and renewal standards.
For healthcare institutions, legal counsel, and compliance officers, this change requires some preparation. Credentialing policies may need to be updated, and existing contracts—especially those related to telehealth—should be reviewed for language that addresses multistate licensure. Legal teams should also consider the potential impact on malpractice coverage, risk management protocols, and employment agreements for physicians working in multiple states.
Pennsylvania physicians who wish to take advantage of the IMLC should begin preparing their documentation, completing the required training, and familiarizing themselves with the Compact’s application process. Legal and compliance teams should similarly review their current procedures and policies to ensure they are ready for this new era of licensure flexibility.
For more information, physicians and healthcare organizations can consult the Pennsylvania Department of State or visit the official IMLC website.
