What Are the United States Requirements for Licensing Healthcare Providers?

Most health-care providers--whether doctors, nurses, technicians or social workers--are required to complete some type of education, training and licensure. According to the Michigan Department of Community Health, there are dozens of medical professions that are regulated nationally or by a governing board of that specialty. In many cases regulations vary by state but follow guidelines from a larger authority.

Physicians and Surgeons

• For physicians and surgeons, licensing requirements begin in college. Students must attend at least three years of undergraduate schooling in order to attend medical school. After graduation from an accredited medical school, most graduates spend at least two years in a residency program. In order to obtain a license to practice medicine, physicians must pass the United States Medical Licensing Examination. Physicians who attend medical school outside the United States are eligible to be licensed after passing the exam and after becoming a United States citizen. Candidates are licensed in their state of residency and can become licensed in other states depending the state's regulations.

Emergency Medical Technicians and Paramedics

• All 50 states require emergency medical technicians (EMTs) to be licensed, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. In addition, EMTs are required in many states to become nationally registered emergency medical technicians (NREMTs). In order to become an NREMT, candidates must complete a training program at one of three levels: EMT-basic, EMT-intermediate or paramedic, and then pass a written and practical examination. Becoming nationally registered allows EMTs to obtain a license in any of the 50 states. Some states do not require national registration, but do require EMTs to pass a written and practical examination.

Registered Nurses

• According to the bureau, there are three educational paths that may be taken in order to become a nurse: Bachelor's of Science degree in nursing, an associate degree in nursing or a diploma program. Most programs require a combination of lecture and practical classes and include an internship. In every state, nurses are required to complete an approved nursing program and pass the National Council Licensure Examination. Some states have other requirements for nurses before being able to practice as a registered nurse.

Social Workers

• Licensure requirements for social workers vary by state, according to the bureau. Most social worker licensures, certifications and registrations require at least a bachelor's degree of Social Work to qualify. In addition, many states require a master's degree in Social Work in order to be licensed. Each state is different but most require two years or 3,000 hours of supervised experience before being certified or licensed as a social worker. Often, the educational programs include the hours needed in order to obtain licensure, but because each state has different standards a candidate should check with his state agencies.