So you want to practice in California?

If you do not have a CA medical license, better get started on the application process now …

The California medical licensing process is one of the longest in the country. A California license can take 6-9 months to obtain, and sometimes up to one year, especially if you attended an international medical school.

When applying for your CA license, please look at this website for information: http://www.medbd.ca.gov/
For D.O.: http://www.ombc.ca.gov/

You can also call (916) 263-2382 with your questions. It costs around $1,300 to obtain a CA license.

HINT: The best way to shorten the licensing application time is to get your fingerprints taken in California. To do this, you just need to be directed to the local sheriff's station, or police station, and get your fingerprints taken there. Just let them know you are getting your fingerprints taken to obtain your CA medical license. Taking your fingerprints in California shaves about two months off the application time.

My suggestion is to get your fingerprints taken at a police station during your on-site visit or interview in California.