Healthcare Market
$9 billion (estimated 2024)
Montana (MT)
Montana Medical License
Get licensed to practice medicine in Montana. 44th. IMLC member state for expedited licensure.
- Population
- 1,100,000
- Difficulty
- Low
- IMLC Compact member (joined 2017)
- Telehealth: Allowed
- CME: 50 hours per 2-year cycle
Medical board
Montana Board of Medical Examiners
2-3 business days for inquiries; application updates within 2 weeks
- Phone
- (406) 841-2364
- dlibsdmed@mt.gov
Quick answer
Quick Answer: Montana Medical License
- Time to License
- 4-6 weeks
- Total Cost
- $450-$900
- CME Requirements
- 50 hours per 2-year cycle
- IMLC Compact
- Yes - expedited licensing available
Healthcare market
Montana Healthcare Market
Key market data for physicians considering Montana.
Physician Demand
Very High
Primary Care Avg.
$258,000
Unique Opportunities in Montana
- Severe physician shortage throughout state
- No state sales tax
- Exceptional quality of life with outdoor recreation
- Growing population in Bozeman and Missoula
- Rural areas have critical needs
- Strong locum tenens market
Application sequence
Montana Licensing Timeline
Typical timeline: 4-6 weeks. Here's what to expect.
- 1
Submit Application
Complete online application through Montana Board of Medical Examiners.
1-2 days - 2
Pay Fees
Submit application fee.
Immediate - 3
Background Check
Complete fingerprinting.
1-2 weeks - 4
Verification
Credential verification.
2-3 weeks - 5
Approval
Board review and license issuance.
1-2 weeks
Application path
Montana License Requirements
Complete requirements for your MT medical license.
Medical Education
Graduate from LCME or AOA-accredited school, or approved international school
- Official transcripts required
Postgraduate Training
Minimum 2 year(s) required
- 24 months ACGME-accredited training
Licensing Exams
Pass USMLE Step 1, 2 CK, and 3
- COMLEX accepted: true
Background Check
Fingerprinting required
- FBI fingerprint background check
Professional References
3 references required
- Licensed physicians
- Program directors
Practice considerations
Practicing in Montana
What to expect when practicing medicine in Montana.
Specialties in Demand
Very rural; Billings largest city at 120K
- Primary Care
- Family Medicine
- Internal Medicine
- Emergency Medicine
- General Surgery
- OB/GYN
Compensation
At or above national average
- Primary Care: $258,000
- Specialist: $385,000
Cost of Living
94.5 (5.5% below national average)
- Housing: Rising; Bozeman median $650,000; other areas $350,000-$450,000
- State Tax: 4.7% to 6.75%
Major Markets
Major metropolitan practice markets.
- Billings (120K city, 180K metro)
- Missoula (80K city, 120K metro)
- Great Falls (60K)
- Bozeman (60K - rapidly growing)
Shortage Areas
Areas with documented physician demand.
- Nearly all counties
- Eastern Montana
- Northern Montana
- Central Montana
Major Healthcare Systems
Selected systems in the frozen state resource.
- Billings Clinic
- Providence Montana
- Benefis Health System
Avoid delays
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Don't let these common issues delay your Montana license.
Underestimating Rural Isolation
Montana is vast with long distances between towns and limited resources.
Solution: Research location carefully; understand referral patterns and emergency protocols
Bozeman Housing Costs
Bozeman has become increasingly expensive due to tech and outdoor recreation growth.
Solution: Consider other Montana communities; negotiate housing assistance
Common questions
Montana Licensing FAQ
Common questions about getting licensed in Montana.
How long does Montana medical licensure take?
Typically 4-6 weeks for complete applications.
Is Montana in the IMLC?
Yes, Montana is an IMLC member state.
What is the physician shortage like in Montana?
Montana has one of the worst physician shortages in the nation, with nearly all counties designated as shortage areas.
What is the quality of life like in Montana?
Montana offers exceptional quality of life with world-class outdoor recreation, national parks, low crime, and stunning natural beauty.
Related states
Also Considering These States?
Many providers licensed in Montana also practice in these states.
Wyoming License
Neighboring state; similar rural environment; IMLC member
View state guideIdaho License
Neighboring state; similar outdoor lifestyle; IMLC member
View state guideNorth Dakota License
Neighboring state; similar rural landscape; IMLC member
View state guideSouth Dakota License
Neighboring state; similar rural needs; IMLC member
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