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Frequently Answered Questions 

General Certification

1. What is the American Board of Physician Specialties (ABPS)?

The ABPS is one of the three nationally‑recognized multi‑specialty physician certifying bodies in the United States.  

It provides board certification and recertification for qualified allopathic (MD) and osteopathic (DO) physicians across a wide range of specialties. Founded in 1952 and certifying its first physician in 1960, the ABPS supports a mission to uphold high certification standards while helping physicians succeed in a changing medical environment. 

2. Is ABPS certification recognized in the medical industry?

Yes. ABPS certification is recognized by healthcare stakeholders and ABPS Diplomates are credentialed and practicing in all 50 states. For example, the U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Outlook Handbook lists ABPS certification as a recognized option along with the AMA Council on Medical Education.  

Also, credentialing organizations (such as CAQH, NAMSS) and state medical boards have accepted ABPS‑certified physicians in their processes. 

3. Which specialties does ABPS certify?

The ABPS, through its 12 Member Boards, offers certification in roughly 20 specialties. For a full list of specialties, please click here.

4. Who is eligible to apply for ABPS board certification?

While eligibility varies by specialty, all applicants must meet general ABPS criteria: 

  • Graduation from a recognized allopathic or osteopathic medical school.  
  • All applicants must have completed residency training in a program approved by the Accreditation Council of Graduate Medical Education (ACGME), the American Osteopathic Association (AOA), or the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (RCPSC). A valid and unrestricted medical license in the U.S., U.S. territories, or Canada.  
  • Adherence to the ABPS Code of Ethics and active practice in the specialty.  

Many specialties add training, experience, residency, or fellowship requirements.  

5. Which U.S. state medical boards recognize ABPS certification?

Today in the U.S. and its territories, there are seventy (70) state medical boards. Some state medical boards are composed of an allopathic board and an osteopathic board, while others are combined as one, called a “composite board.” Of the 70 state boards, the vast majority do not differentiate between any of the three nationally recognized multi-specialty boards of certification (ABMS, ABPS, AOABOS).  

6. Who is eligible for ABPS physician board certification?

Eligibility is described in question 4 above; it covers both allopathic and osteopathic physicians who meet the general and specialty‑specific criteria. In addition, ABPS allows recertification for physicians initially certified by other boards (ABMS or AOA) in certain circumstances.  

Application & Requirements 

7. How do I start the certification application process?

To begin, one typically selects the relevant ABPS Member Board for their specialty, submits an application online, provides required documentation, pays application fees, and awaits approval of eligibility. Once eligibility is confirmed, the candidate receives exam scheduling instructions. Contact ABPS for specifics per specialty. 

8. What documents are required for certification?

Common document requirements include: 

  • Medical school diploma/degree verification. 
  • Active, unrestricted medical license. 
  • Curriculum vitae (CV) listing medical school, postgraduate training, and work history.  
  • Certificate of completion of residency and/or fellowship 
  • Letters of recommendation (number depends on specialty). 
  • Self‑query of the National Practitioner Data Bank (NPDB) and submission of the report.  
  • Proof of specialty training or experience as required. 

 9. Are international medical graduates eligible for ABPS certification?

Yes. International graduates from allopathic or osteopathic schools may apply, provided they meet ABPS educational criteria (including ECFMG certification if required) and hold a valid unrestricted medical license in the U.S., its territories, or Canada.  

10. What are the fees for certification and recertification?

Fee schedules vary by specialty board and application type (initial vs. recertification). Physicians should consult the ABPS website or contact the ABPS directly for current fee details and payment instructions. 

Exams 

11. How are ABPS certification exams structured?

ABPS certification processes involve a psychometrically sound written examination made up of multiple‑choice questions. Some specialties also require an oral exam component. Exams assess mastery of core competencies in the specialty.  

12. When are exams offered, and where are they administered?

Exam schedules vary by Member Board and specialty. Written exams are computer‑based and offered at testing centers nationwide. If the specialty requires an oral exam, it is conducted virtually. Applicants will receive scheduling details from the ABPS once eligibility is confirmed. 

13. How long does it take to receive exam results?

Results delivery time varies by specialty board and exam cycle. After completing the written exam and, if applicable, oral exam, candidates are typically notified of their performance within 60 days of the close of the testing window. Contact ABPS for specialty‑specific timelines. 

14. What happens if I don’t pass the exam? Can I retake it?

Candidates are allowed three (3) attempts to pass an exam. A retake fee is required for each examination attempt. Candidates who fail on the third attempt must wait one (1) year to reapply and meet current eligibility requirements at the time of the new application, Additionally, the physician must provide verification of courses (CME) taken to remedy deficiencies demonstrated during the examination process. 

Recertification & CME 

15. How often must I recertify my ABPS certification?

ABPS certifications are valid for eight years and expire on December 31 of the eighth year.  

Recertification requirements vary by specialty board but generally include completing continuing medical education (CME), ethics coursework, and a recertification exam. 

16. What types of CME qualify for recertification?

CME must typically be accredited education relevant to the specialty. The exact number and type of CME hours vary by board; many require 50 hours per year, including a subset that is specialty‑specific.  

17. Can CME credits from online courses be used for recertification?

Yes, provided the online CME is accredited and meets the specialty board’s requirements. Applicants should verify that the course is AMA‑PRA Category 1 Credit™ or the equivalent required by their Member Board. 

18. What happens if my certification lapses?

If certification lapses (i.e., expires without recertification), the physician must contact the ABPS Member Board to understand reinstatement or recertification options. This may involve a new application, CME catch‑up, or a retake of the exam, depending on specialty board policy. 

Recognition & Use 

19. Is ABPS certification recognized in all U.S. states?

Founded in 1952, the American Board of Physician Specialties is a nationally recognized choice in physician board certification that includes 12 Member Boards with Diplomates in 20 specialties. Today, leading medical entities, stakeholders, and professional organizations have updated their bylaws, policies, and standards to include ABPS. ABPS offers the highest standards in physician board certification that meet the healthcare needs of the public and aid physicians in achieving success in the continuously evolving medical environment. It’s Diplomates practice throughout the United States and serve as leaders in their medical specialties. For more information on state medical board rules, see question number 6. 

20. Can I use the ABPS designation on my CV, website, and practice materials?

Yes—once you have earned a valid ABPS certification, you may list your credential and certification board (e.g., “Diplomate, ABPS Member Board”). Follow the ABPS‑approved mark guidelines and any state advertising rules. 

21. Do hospitals and insurance providers accept ABPS certification?

Many hospitals, health systems, and insurers accept ABPS certification for privileging and credentialing. Most health plans must meet credentialing requirements set by organizations such as the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) and the Utilization Review Accreditation Commission (URAC). ABPS meets or exceeds the standards required by both. All Diplomates’ and applicants’ credentials are primary source verified by Verisys, a Joint Commission and National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) accredited Credentials Verification Organization (CVO). In addition, ABPS Member Boards are listed in the Council for Affordable Quality Healthcare’s (CAQH) Proview application. 

However, each organization sets its own credentialing policies. Physicians should engage credentialing departments for confirmation. 

The ABPS team works with health systems to update their bylaws or policies. If you are experiencing issues, please contact the ABPS today at info@abspsus.org  

22. How can patients verify my certification status?

The ABPS website offers a Diplomate verification tool. You can find it here. Hospitals, patients, and credentialers can search by name or certificate number to confirm active certification.  

Membership & Governance 

23. How do I become a Diplomate member of the ABPS?

Once eligibility is approved and you pass the Member Board’s certification exams, you become a Diplomate of that ABPS Member Board. This grants you membership in the broader ABPS community of certified physicians. 

24. What are the benefits of membership?

As an ABPS‑certified physician, you gain: 

  • Recognition of your expertise and mastery in your specialty 
  • Access to a community of peers who prioritize patient care over politics  
  • Increased marketability and leadership opportunities 
  • Access to best‑practice exchanges, advocacy initiatives, and networking with hospital groups, legislators, and credentialers 

25. How are board decisions and policies made?

The ABPS is overseen by a Board of Directors and a CEO who are guided by its mission and objectives. Policies are developed in coordination with the specialty Member Boards.  

The objectives include establishing standards, promoting professional standards, and informing the public about certification.  

If you’re a licensed physician exploring board certification, or a patient or employer seeking verification or more information about the ABPS and its Member Boards, please contact the ABPS directly for the most current details on eligibility, fees, exam schedules, and credentialing support.

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Patient Care Is Our Priority

Medical organizations throughout North America understand that our rigorous certification standards prove that ABPS Diplomates are capable of delivering the best patient care possible.

With declining access for maternity care amid rising maternal mortality, ABPS and their Board Certification in Family Medicine Obstetrics has been essential for me and many of my colleagues in getting privileges and thereby creating local access for mothers and their children.

Ashish Anand, MD, FAASOS
John B. Waits, MD
Family Medicine Obstetrics
Board certification through the American Board of Physician Specialties has served to substantiate my interest and additional training in several fields of medicine including Internal Medicine, Disaster Medicine, and Administrative Medicine. As a result, I have been able to serve my community in clinical, disaster response, and administrative medicine roles. Through the ABPS, I have become recognized as a leader in my various fields of interest.

Spencer Price MD, MPH, MBA
Administrative Medicine
In this era, when continuous updated medical knowledge means so much to you, when quality of emergency care matters most to you ,when you need to excel in your medical career to continue providing exceptional service to your critically ill patients, please consider board certification with the Boad of Certification in Emergency Medicine (BCEM). Where your knowledge & expertise translates to credentialing & certification with wider approval & recognition every day at many fronts. We Welcome you to join our team for a brighter future of our emergency healthcare where dedication to profession relies not solely on clinical practice but also on sound academic certification.

Ashish Anand, MD, FAASOS
Ashraf A. Gerges, MD, FAAEP
Emergency Medicine
Board certification in Orthopedic Surgery through the American Board of Physician Specialties validated my training and surgical experience through a process that was both rigorous and respectful of real-world practice. ABPS recognizes clinical competence, not just credentials, and that sets it apart.

Ashish Anand, MD, FAASOS
Ashish Anand, MD, FAASOS
Orthopedic Surgery
The American Board of Physician Specialties is a forward- thinking organization that focuses on where Medicine is going, not just where it has been. Traditional Certification Boards like Internal Medicine, Emergency Medicine, and Dermatology are represented as are Integrative Medicine, Disaster Medicine, and Family Medicine-Obstetrics. Physicians appreciate the ability to showcase their skills and knowledge through Board Certification, and this organization allows excellent physicians the ability to bring their skills to patients. The dedication and commitment of this organization and its volunteers will ensure ongoing distinction and commitment for decades to come.

Jeffrey B. Stricker, DO, MBA, FAASD
Jeffrey B. Stricker, DO, MBA, FAASD
Dermatology
Serving as a member on the American board of Integrative Medicine (ABOIM) for many years and now serving as a Member at Large of the American Board of Physician Specialties (ABPS) has been an enriching and rewarding experience. The board’s commitment to excellence, integrity, and positive impact is truly inspiring. I am grateful to collaborate with such a dedicated and visionary group, and I am proud of the meaningful progress we continue to achieve together.

Arti Prasad, MD, FACP
Arti Prasad, MD, FACP
Integrative Medicine
There are many ways board certification advances a physician career. ABPS Board examination verifies your accuracy, precision, and reflects your mastery of your residency training verifying your expertise. ABPS Board certification demonstrates your level of expertise beyond your practice experience, primary education degrees, and training which are necessary for insurance reimbursement and practice privilege requirements. Attaining your ABPS Board Certification will clarify your purpose, secure your practice growth, and expand into leadership positions. Board certification can serve as an indication of a physician’s commitment to medicine, beyond the minimal standards and competency of training, their measurement to quality of care, and attaining an award for excellence.

Chris Kunis MD
Internal Medicine
When the American Board of Physician Specialties offered to host the American Board of Integrative Medicine, ABPS became a landmark organization working to move medicine into the twenty first century. Certifying physicians who have completed rigorous academic training in Integrative Medicine ensures that the field of Integrative Medicine will continue to develop academically, clinically, and professionally. The leadership of ABPS continues to impress me - they are diligent in constantly innovating to provide certifications for physicians who want to advance their careers and their areas of expertise. I am honored to be a part of this organization.

Ann Marie Chiasson, MD
Integrative Medicine
On October 18, 2007, President George W. Bush released Homeland Security Presidential Directive 21 (HSPD-21), calling on our nation, among other initiatives, to “collectively support and facilitate the establishment of a discipline of disaster health”. It is a great testament to the wisdom and foresight of the American Board of Physician Specialties that it immediately set to work and created, within the short span of only one year, an educational blueprint and set of certification examinations, both written and oral, for a new subspecialty of disaster medicine—and it is why I chose to be part this vital initiative and this wonderful organization. This is but one of the many innovative programs initiated by the American Board of Physician Specialties over the years, and why I am proud to support its work on behalf of our nation’s public health.

Art Cooper, MD
Disaster Medicine
Far too often, medicine is led by less than 5% of non-practicing physicians taking away and replacing the voice of the 95% of physicians practicing and placing patient safety and care first on the front lines every day. The American Board of Physician Specialties has raised the standards in physician board certification not only in the quality of their boards of certification, but in hearing and allowing for the voice of those active physicians caring directly for patients. Having been a part of the ABPS over the last 28 years has allowed me to grow as a woman leader in a field often wrought with challenges. It helped me and others raise the bar of the standards of care in my specialty, Emergency Medicine, through their Board Certification in Emergency Medicine (BCEM). ABPS also helped raise the standards of care for 21st century medicine through their certifications in other specialties, particularly in Integrative Medicine & Disaster Medicine. Having physician voices heard matters to medicine and is essential in the betterment of patient safety and care.

Sarah E. Gilbert, MD, FAAEP
Sarah E. Gilbert, MD, FAAEP
Emergency Medicine
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