The IMLC: What Does it Mean for You?

The IMLC: What Does it Mean for You?

Florida entered into the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact (IMLC, or Compact) in late 2024, making it the 41st state or territory to join the Compact since it formed in 2017.

But what exactly is the IMLC and what does it mean for you? Let’s dive in.

What is the IMLC?

The Interstate Medical Licensure Compact (IMLC, or Compact) is an agreement among participating states that streamlines the licensing process for physicians who wish to practice medicine in multiple states. The IMLC offers qualified physicians a voluntary, expedited path to obtain a license in more than 40 states and territories through a single application process, while maintaining the rigorous standards of each state’s requirements.

The licenses are still issued through each individual state, but because of an agreed-upon and streamlined application process that’s routed through the IMLC, the process of gaining a license is faster and easier, often taking just a few weeks (instead of months). Once you’ve obtained a license through the IMLC, you can renew it through the same process.

The IMLC increases access to healthcare across its member states, particularly for underserved populations and rural areas. Medical specialists can reach rural clinics, facilities can attract high-quality physicians in emergency situations, and telemedicine is more widely available. The IMLC also allows states the ability to share investigative and disciplinary information, strengthening public protection.

What the IMLC Is Not

It’s crucial to understand that the IMLC is not a license itself, nor does the IMLC issue licenses. Instead, the IMLC is a tool that participating states use to expedite the application process through information sharing and streamlined requirements. Licensing is still completed through the states. There is no difference between a license issued through the state and one issued through the IMLC.

Think of it like TSA PreCheck – you must still provide fingerprints, documentation, a photo, and payment to TSA. Once approved, you save substantial time bypassing security screening lines at participating airports. The IMLC is similar. It eliminates the need to provide the same information multiple times into different systems – reducing paperwork, errors, and processing time.

What it means when a state joins the IMLC

When a state joins the IMLC, it enhances physician mobility during emergencies and natural disasters. Facilities can also plan ahead for known physician shortages such as during parental leave, gaps when hiring positions, or seasonal surges in patient volume. The ability to quickly obtain out-of-state licenses means physicians can respond rapidly when crises arise, such as hurricanes or public health emergencies. For example, if a vulnerable population experiences a surge in illness or disaster relief efforts require additional medical support, the IMLC enables faster deployment of qualified physicians where they’re needed most.

Facilities located in IMLC states have the ability to adapt faster and more efficiently than states who are not members of the IMLC. These facilities can attract top physicians to remote and underserved areas, increasing patient access to quality care. They can also create more accurate staffing plans and be prepared for emerging issues, increasing patient responsiveness.

Requirements for using the IMLC

While the IMLC helps expedite licensing, it isn’t available for every physician. To qualify for licensure through the IMLC, you must meet several requirements, including (but not limited to):

• Hold a full, unrestricted medical license in a member state (State of Principal License or SPL).
• Have graduated from an accredited medical school, or a school listed in the International Medical Education Directory.
• No criminal history, disciplinary or controlled substance actions toward your medical license, or be under investigation.

There are other requirements as well, and each physician is responsible for understanding IMLC rules and keeping track of renewal dates.

In addition, there is a non-refundable fee to apply through the IMLC. The cost is $700 plus the cost of a state’s license, which varies for each state. The major benefit of the IMLC comes when you either 1) need expedited processing of one license application, or 2) want to apply for multiple licenses at once (or both!). It’s $100 for each additional license when you add them onto your initial state.

Military discounts or waivers are not offered through the IMLC, however they may be offered through the individual state medical boards. If a Compact member state grants a waiver, they will authorize the IMLC to return the appropriate portion of the license or renewal fee that was paid.

These requirements ensure that all IMLC-licensed physicians have met rigorous standards and maintain high ethical standards across all member states.

How does the IMLC help me?

The IMLC is particularly beneficial for physicians interested in locum tenens work, offering a pathway to a more flexible and balanced career.

How would you like to regain control over your schedule? What would it be like to earn extra income or try out a new facility without committing to a long-term contract? What might it feel like to take time off and not be constantly bombarded with text messages and notifications?

As a locum tenens professional, you can reimagine your career. Each assignment offers a new chapter in your journey and the chance to explore different areas of medicine. You can gain invaluable experience in a variety of clinical settings, broaden your skill set, and travel to places you might not visit otherwise. Locums allows you to enjoy flexible scheduling and achieve a better work-life balance. You can choose assignments that fit your personal and professional goals–no sacrificing pay, your career goals, or your personal aspirations.

• Control when, where, and how long you work, offering a schedule that works for you and your lifestyle
• Add diverse practice settings and patient populations to your CV
• Enjoy true time off between assignments without guilt
• Enjoy traveling at someone else’s expense
• Earn lucrative pay to reach your goals faster
• Avoid burnout and improve your mental health

The IMLC’s expedited out-of-state licensing process makes it easier than ever to accept assignments in multiple states, giving you the freedom to tailor your career to your unique preferences and aspirations.

Whether you want to escape harsh winters, pursue seasonal hobbies, or contribute during times of crisis, the IMLC makes it easier than ever to practice medicine on your terms. It’s about creating opportunities while removing barriers—allowing you to design the life of your dreams.

States in the IMLC

As of January 1, 2025, the IMLC includes more than 40 states and territories, spanning United States. The extensive network of participating states offers physicians unprecedented mobility and opportunities to practice in new settings.

*Non-State of Principal License

**Implementation in process

What is Concierge Locums?

At Floyd Lee Locums, we offer a unique approach to locum tenens staffing. We prioritize taking care of real people – YOU. Our work is personal because you take care of us every day.

Our concierge service goes beyond filling positions. We take the time to understand your skills, interests, and career goals to match you with opportunities that truly align with your aspirations. We provide comprehensive support, handling time-consuming processes of credentialing, licensing, and travel arrangements.

We even help you manage your personal life, from identifying a church or daycare at your new assignment to ordering your spouse a gift for your anniversary. At Floyd Lee Locums, we believe in building long-term relationships with our physicians. We aim to be your partner, supporting your personal and professional lives and helping you navigate the evolving healthcare landscape.

Floyd Lee Locums was born out of a desire to provide best-in-class service and support to clinicians so they could focus on patient care and meet their own personal and professional goals. We serve more than 50 specialties across the United States from Allergy to Vascular Surgery. At Floyd Lee Locums, you’ll have a specialty-specific Concierge Consultant who will help you navigate applications, travel, credentialing, negotiations, and more. Whatever the specialty, we can serve you.

Ready to Connect?

The IMLC makes it easier to explore your options. Whether you’re looking to expand your practice, explore new locations, or find a better work-life balance, locum tenens could be the solution you’ve been seeking.

At Floyd Lee Locums, we’re committed to providing you with concierge service that puts your needs first. We understand that your work matters, but you matter, too. Let us help you navigate your career and find the perfect fit for your needs and desires.