What Happens If You Submit Incorrect Information?
Submitting incorrect details on your Interstate Medical Licensure Compact (IMLC) application can delay your approval or even lead to rejection. Common mistakes include typos in your personal information, missing documents, and mismatched data between your application and licensing board records.
Can You Edit Your IMLC Application After Submission?
No — once submitted, the application is locked. However, you can contact your State of Principal License (SPL) to correct or supplement your application.
Common Mistakes Physicians Make
- Entering a different name format than what’s listed on your state license
- Providing the wrong board certification details
- Omitting a previous address or employer
- Uploading low-quality scans of documents or submitting incomplete fingerprint cards
- Marking the wrong eligibility criteria (e.g., selecting the wrong SPL justification)
How to Fix an IMLC Application Error
- Identify the issue: Review the email or portal notification from your SPL or the IMLC Commission.
- Contact your SPL: Send a written request to the state board’s IMLC liaison. Include corrected details and documentation.
- Submit supplemental materials: Your SPL may allow you to upload supporting files via email or portal.
- Confirm receipt: Always follow up to ensure your corrections are received and applied to your application.
Some SPLs offer direct support via phone, while others require all communication in writing.
Can You Cancel and Start Over?
Yes, but it’s not ideal. If your SPL has not yet approved your application or started processing, you can sometimes cancel and reapply. This means paying the fee again and restarting your background check process.
Will Mistakes Delay My LOQ?
Yes — the more time your SPL spends requesting clarifications, the longer it takes to issue your Letter of Qualification (LOQ). Some applications with unresolved errors sit idle for weeks. Prompt correction prevents avoidable delays.
Tips to Avoid Mistakes Up Front
- Double-check name formatting to match your primary state license
- List your SPL justification clearly (residency, employer, etc.)
- Use high-resolution scans and avoid blurry or cropped files
- Keep all documentation on hand before starting
A complete, clean application moves the fastest.
Final Thoughts
Mistakes happen — but the key is correcting them fast. The IMLC application system doesn’t allow editing, so your communication with your SPL becomes the fix. Be proactive, polite, and precise, and you’ll keep your timeline on track and your LOQ within reach.