Your state of principal license must be an IMLC member where you hold a full unrestricted license and meet one of the connection tests — primary residence, at least a quarter of your practice, employer location, or state of residence for tax purposes.
What Is a State of Principal License (SPL)?
The State of Principal License (SPL) is the state that initiates and verifies your eligibility for the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact (IMLC). Once your SPL approves you, you receive a Letter of Qualification (LOQ) — the document that opens the door to multistate licensure.
Why Does Your SPL Choice Matter?
Your SPL controls the speed and success of your IMLC application. A poor choice can delay your application by weeks or result in denial if you don’t meet specific state-based requirements. A smart choice can lead to LOQ approval in days.
What Are the Requirements to Qualify a State as Your SPL?
You must have a valid, unrestricted medical license in a compact state that meets one of the following:
- Your primary residence is in the state
- You conduct at least 25% of your medical practice there
- Your employer is located in that state
- The state is listed as your residence on your federal income tax return
At least one of these conditions must be true to select a state as your SPL.
How to Evaluate Which SPL to Use
If you qualify for more than one SPL, consider:
- Processing speed: Some states are faster than others — check recent timelines and reviews
- Fingerprinting process: States that accept Live Scan typically process faster than those using mail-in ink cards
- Cost: State fees for verification and processing can vary
- Long-term alignment: Pick a state where you plan to maintain residency, practice, or business operations
Top SPLs Known for Speed and Simplicity
- Alabama: Often processes in under 10 days
- Wisconsin: Clear requirements and digital-friendly submission
- Idaho: Small board = fast responses
- Wyoming: Very compact-friendly and transparent
Check IMLC forums, licensing groups, or support services for up-to-date turnaround stats — and see our 2026 ranking of the fastest IMLC states.
What If You No Longer Qualify for Your SPL?
If you move or change jobs and your SPL no longer meets the eligibility criteria, you can’t request new licenses through the IMLC — but you still keep all licenses you’ve already obtained. To continue using the IMLC, you’ll need to establish eligibility in a new SPL and reapply.
Can You Change Your SPL?
Yes, but only by meeting the criteria in a new state and applying through that board. You cannot simply switch SPLs mid-process — it requires starting over with a new application and another round of verification and background checks.
Which State Should You Choose?
Choosing the right SPL is the first and most important decision in your IMLC journey. It sets the tone for everything that follows — speed, cost, and access to licenses. Pick carefully, confirm eligibility, and favor speed-friendly states whenever possible. A great SPL isn’t just a formality — it’s your gateway to multistate practice. See our concierge pricing for full SPL selection and application management.
Common questions
- What is the state of principal license?
- The member state that runs your eligibility review and background check, and which must meet one of the compact’s connection tests to you.
- How do I qualify a state as my SPL?
- Hold a full unrestricted license there and satisfy one of: primary residence, at least 25% of practice, principal employer location, or tax residency.
- Can I change my SPL later?
- Yes, if another member state qualifies. It requires going through eligibility again with that state running the review.
- What if no member state qualifies as my SPL?
- You cannot use the compact. Physicians licensed only in non-member states are in this position and need a qualifying member-state license first.
- Does my SPL affect processing speed?
- Yes. The eligibility stage happens there, so its board’s turnaround determines much of your timeline.
Need Help with Your Application?
We handle the IMLC and single-state medical license process end-to-end — eligibility screening, documents, board follow-ups, and tracking.