Healthcare Market
$6.5 billion (estimated 2024)
North Dakota (ND)
North Dakota Medical License
Get licensed to practice medicine in North Dakota. 48th. IMLC member state for expedited licensure.
- Population
- 800,000
- Difficulty
- Low
- IMLC Compact member (joined 2017)
- Telehealth: Allowed
- CME: 60 hours per 3-year cycle (License renews biennially)
Medical board
North Dakota Board of Medicine
2-3 business days for inquiries; application updates within 2 weeks
- Phone
- (701) 328-6500
- ndbom@ndbom.org
Quick answer
Quick Answer: North Dakota Medical License
- Time to License
- 3-5 weeks
- Total Cost
- $205-$450
- CME Requirements
- 60 hours per 3-year cycle (License renews biennially)
- IMLC Compact
- Yes - expedited licensing available
Healthcare market
North Dakota Healthcare Market
Key market data for physicians considering North Dakota.
Physician Demand
Very High
Primary Care Avg.
$268,000
Unique Opportunities in North Dakota
- Low state income tax
- Very low cost of living
- Severe physician shortage
- Strong economy (energy sector)
- Sanford Health major employer
- Rural areas have critical needs
Application sequence
North Dakota Licensing Timeline
Typical timeline: 3-5 weeks. Here's what to expect.
- 1
Submit Application
Complete online application through North Dakota Board of Medicine.
1-2 days - 2
Pay Fees
Submit application fee.
Immediate - 3
Background Check
Complete fingerprinting.
1-2 weeks - 4
Verification
Credential verification.
1-2 weeks - 5
Approval
Board review and license issuance.
1 week
Application path
North Dakota License Requirements
Complete requirements for your ND 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 North Dakota
What to expect when practicing medicine in North Dakota.
Specialties in Demand
Very rural; Fargo largest city
- Primary Care
- Family Medicine
- Internal Medicine
- General Surgery
- Emergency Medicine
- Psychiatry
Compensation
Above national average
- Primary Care: $268,000
- Specialist: $400,000
Cost of Living
89.3 (10.7% below national average)
- Housing: Very low; median $250,000
- State Tax: 1.1% to 2.9% (among lowest in US)
Major Markets
Major metropolitan practice markets.
- Fargo-Moorhead (250K metro - includes MN)
- Bismarck-Mandan (135K metro)
- Grand Forks (100K metro - includes MN)
Shortage Areas
Areas with documented physician demand.
- Nearly all rural counties
- Western North Dakota (oil country)
- Native American reservations
Major Healthcare Systems
Selected systems in the frozen state resource.
- Sanford Health
- Essentia Health
- Altru Health System
Avoid delays
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Don't let these common issues delay your North Dakota license.
Harsh Winter Climate
North Dakota has extremely cold winters.
Solution: Research climate carefully; ensure lifestyle fit
Rural Isolation
Very sparse population with long distances.
Solution: Research location carefully; understand support systems
Common questions
North Dakota Licensing FAQ
Common questions about getting licensed in North Dakota.
How long does North Dakota medical licensure take?
Typically 3-5 weeks - very efficient process.
Is North Dakota in the IMLC?
Yes, North Dakota is an IMLC member state.
What is the income tax in North Dakota?
North Dakota has very low income tax rates (1.1% to 2.9%) - among the lowest in states with income tax.
What is the physician shortage like?
North Dakota has one of the worst physician shortages in the nation, resulting in strong recruitment incentives.
Related states
Also Considering These States?
Many providers licensed in North Dakota also practice in these states.
Track North Dakota renewals in one tracker.
Keep requirements, documents, renewals, and proof visible before deadlines.