FAQ: Pennsylvania Medical Licensure Renewal Resources

Physicians holding an MD license in Pennsylvania are required to renew their license every even-numbered year by December 31st. Submit your renewal application before the expiration date.

To renew your Pennsylvania MD license:

1. Visit the Pennsylvania State Board of Medicine’s License Renewal Information page: Renewal Information – PA State Board of Medicine.
2. Log in with your PALS (Pennsylvania Licensing System) account credentials: PALS.
3. Complete the renewal application, ensure your continuing medical education (CME) hours are met, and submit payment for the renewal fee.

Yes, the renewal fee for a Pennsylvania MD license is $360 for a two-year period. Payment can be made online during the renewal process.

Yes, you can renew your MD license as early as 60 days before your expiration date. Renewing early ensures that there is no gap in your licensure and helps avoid any late fees.

Physicians must complete 100 hours of continuing medical education (CME) every two years for license renewal. The requirements include:
• At least 20 hours of Category 1 CME (accredited by recognized medical societies such as the AMA or AAFP).
• Child abuse recognition and reporting: A one-time mandatory training course for all licensees.
• Pain management, identification of addiction, and opioid safety: A 2-hour training course every renewal cycle.

Physicians can find approved CME courses through the following resources:
• PAMED: The Pennsylvania Medical Society offers a list of approved CME opportunities. Visit www.pamedsoc.org for more details.
• Accredited medical institutions and universities: Many institutions offer CME programs, both in-person and online.

Note: The Allegheny County Medical Society is not offering CME opportunities at the moment. Stay tuned for more CME opportunities in 2025.

After completing your renewal online, you should receive a confirmation email from the Pennsylvania State Board of Medicine. You can also check your license status by logging into your account on the PALS website to verify that your renewal has been processed.

If you miss your renewal deadline:

• You may incur a late fee, and your license may become inactive.
• If your license lapses for more than five years, you may need to complete additional steps to reinstate your license, such as submitting proof of continuing education or retaking exams.

It is important to renew your license on time to avoid complications.

If you need assistance with the Pennsylvania Licensing System (PALS):

1. Log in to your PALS account.
2. Navigate to the support section and submit a ticket with your issue or question.

Visit the PALS website for more information.

For assistance with your MD license renewal or any other inquiries:
• Phone: (717) 783-1400
• Email: [email protected]
• Website: www.dos.pa.gov/medicine

Active Retired Physicians may have different renewal requirements. Physicians who are no longer actively practicing but wish to maintain retired status must still renew their license but may qualify for reduced fees or simplified renewal processes.

For more information:
• Contact the Pennsylvania State Board of Medicine for guidance on renewal as an Active Retired MD.
• Visit PAMED’s website for additional details about Active Retired status and any potential exemptions.

The PAMED Knowledge Center is available to assist with your licensure renewal questions and to help you find CME opportunities. You can reach them at:
• Phone: (800) 228-7823
• Email: [email protected]

• Pennsylvania Department of State – Board of Medicine
• PAMED