Military Status - Frequently Asked Questions
- Who is eligible to apply for the military exemption status?
- Can a physician on military status engage in private practice?
- Does the military exemption give me a restricted license?
- I have a California license but I am currently in the military. Can I be exempted from Continuing Medical Education (CME) requirements?
- Will I receive a new license reflecting the exempt military status?
- How does a physician come out of military status?
- How long do I have to notify the Board after I am discharged from military service?
- Upon return to active status from military status will I have to pay the license renewal fees?
Who is eligible to apply for the military exemption status?
Any physician engaged in full-time training or active service in the Armed Forces of the United States Public Health Service may be eligible for exemption from payment of the renewal fees.
Can a physician on military status engage in private practice?
No. Anyone receiving a military exemption may not engage in any private practice.
Does the military exemption give me a restricted license?
Yes. The military license is a restricted license because the physician can practice only on a military base.
I have a California license but I am currently in the military. Can I be exempted from Continuing Medical Education (CME) requirements?
Perhaps. The law requires that every military physician comply with the CME requirement. However, reasons of war or being aboard ship for extended periods of time (several years), which preclude a physician from participating in any CME will be considered. Requests to waive the CME requirement may be submitted to the Licensing Operations Section of the Medical Board. You may call the Consumer Information Unit at (916) 263-2382 for a request form.
Will I receive a new license reflecting the exempt military status?
Yes. Upon approval of the application for military exemption, a new pocket license reflecting military status will be issued.
How does a physician come out of military status?
The physician must complete the "Application to Restore License to Full Active Status from Fee Exempt Status" and pay the full renewal fee.
How long do I have to notify the Board after I am discharged from military service?
The Board must be notified in writing within 60 days of discharge to avoid penalty or delinquent fees.
Upon return to active status from military status will I have to pay the license renewal fees?
Yes. Physicians who are returning to active status will be responsible for paying the full current renewal fee. There are no provisions in California law for prorated licenses.
