Applying for a Physician Assistant License
What you need to know before applying for PA License
Each state has its own certification process, which can take a few weeks or at least 6-8 weeks. The process can be easy or long, depending on what is needed for a state license. You could apply for multiple license state licenses meaning if you went to school in California and want to move to NYC possibly, you can apply to both. Keep in mind you will have to pay for every license and the renewals. The renewal process, as far as timing, is different for each state.
You will apply for the license based on the state you will work in. You will have to pay out of pocket initially, but most jobs will reimburse you going forward, depending on your contract. Therefore, check your contract before signing. I will have a post about this topic coming soon.
My Story:
I worked in NYC and went to school in NYC, but I moved back to NJ. Keep in mind that applying for NJ takes a while. I got an NYC license when I was working in NYC, and 3 years later, I applied for an NJ license. NJ licensing department asked for past job history for the prior 5-7 years.
I had to have my current boss sign off on paperwork about my responsibilities. This situation can be uncomfortable because the boss may think you are leaving. After all, you are getting a new license. This may be true, which is why it’s sometimes good to apply for your license before getting a new job.
TIPS BEFORE APPLYING FOR A LICENSE:
- Check state Physician Assistant licensing requirements
- Fingerprinting will be required
- Criminal background check
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