How Many States Participate in the IMLC?
As of now, more than 35 states, along with the District of Columbia and Guam, participate in the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact (IMLC). This number continues to grow as new legislation is passed in additional states. That means you could potentially qualify for licensure in over 35 jurisdictions with a single streamlined application process.
Is There a Limit to the Number of Licenses You Can Hold?
No. The IMLC places no limit on how many compact states you can apply to. Once your Letter of Qualification (LOQ) is issued, you can request licenses from any and all participating states. Each state license is treated as a separate credential and must be maintained independently.
Do All Participating States Offer the Same Access?
Yes, with one key caveat: you must meet each state's internal requirements. While the IMLC provides a common gateway, some states may ask for additional documentation or have special policies on things like controlled substance registrations, local address listings, or CME validation. However, your LOQ satisfies the core eligibility criteria everywhere.
How Do You Know Which States Are Available?
The IMLC website maintains a real-time list of member states. When you're approved, your portal will also show all currently available jurisdictions. The list can change as new states join or pause participation for legislative or technical reasons.
What Determines Your Reach?
Your licensing footprint through the IMLC depends on a few factors:
- Whether your SPL is part of the compact
- Your compliance with IMLC eligibility requirements
- Which states you choose to apply to (and pay for)
- State-specific nuances, such as background checks or follow-up forms
The broader your goals, the more licenses you can secure — but it’s up to you to initiate each one.
How Do You Apply to Multiple States at Once?
After receiving your LOQ, log in to the IMLC portal and select the states where you wish to be licensed. You’ll pay each state’s fee separately. Most approvals are processed within days, and you’ll receive documentation and license numbers from each board directly.
Do More Licenses Mean More Admin Work?
Yes — but it’s manageable. Each license must be tracked, renewed, and updated per that state's rules. Many physicians use credentialing software or licensing services to stay on top of renewals, CME, and required updates.
Is It Worth It to Apply to All States?
It depends on your practice model. For physicians working in:
- Telemedicine: More licenses = more patient access
- Locum tenens: Flexibility to accept contracts anywhere
- Specialist networks: Wider referral base and visibility
If you're working exclusively in one or two regions, a smaller set of licenses may suffice. But for national roles, maximizing your IMLC footprint is a strategic advantage.
What About Non-Compact States?
Non-participating states still require traditional licensure. You can apply to them separately, even while using the IMLC for compact states. Many physicians build a hybrid licensing portfolio over time.
Final Thoughts
The IMLC doesn’t cap your potential — it expands it. You can hold as many licenses as you need, as long as you qualify and maintain them. For physicians seeking mobility, reach, and rapid deployment, the IMLC is the fastest route to a multi-state practice.