# How Many New Doctors Are Licensed Per Year in the US? – FAQs On Becoming a Medical Doctor
When it comes to medical doctors, the United States requires a rigorous and lengthy process for licensure. People interested in becoming a medical doctor must complete a series of steps, including completing a four-year medical degree and passing an exam. So, how many new doctors per year are licensed in the US?
According to the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC), approximately 35,000 new doctors are licensed in the United States each year. This number includes physicians who have obtained their medical degree from either a US or foreign medical school.
## What Is the Process for Becoming a Medical Doctor?
The process of becoming a medical doctor is long and complex. A person interested in becoming a doctor must complete a four-year medical degree, complete a residency program, and pass an exam to be licensed to practice medicine.
Before beginning medical school, students must complete a four-year undergraduate degree program, typically with a major in a science-related field. After completing an undergraduate program, students must take the Medical College Admissions Test (MCAT). This test is used to assess the student’s knowledge in the sciences and assess their aptitude for medical school.
Once accepted into medical school, students must complete a four-year program to receive a Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree. During medical school, students learn the foundations of medicine, including anatomy, physiology, pathology, pharmacology, and biochemistry. In addition, students gain hands-on experience through clinical clerkships and rotations.
After receiving their MD, students must complete a residency program. A residency program provides students with the opportunity to gain experience in their chosen specialty. After completing a residency program, students must pass a licensing exam to become a medical doctor.
## What Licensing Exams Are Required to Become a Medical Doctor?
To become a medical doctor, individuals must pass an exam known as the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE). This exam is used to assess the knowledge, skills, and abilities of medical students and physicians. It is divided into three parts: Step 1, Step 2 Clinical Knowledge, and Step 3. Each part of the exam must be passed in order for a person to become a licensed medical doctor in the United States.
## Are There Different Types of Medical Doctors?
Yes, there are different types of medical doctors. Depending on a person’s interests, they may choose to specialize in a certain field. Some of the most common specialties include pediatrics, family practice, internal medicine, surgery, and obstetrics and gynecology.
In addition, there are also subspecialties that a person may choose to pursue. Subspecialties are focused areas of medicine, such as cardiology, oncology, and endocrinology.
## What Is the Difference Between an MD and a DO?
MD stands for Doctor of Medicine, while DO stands for Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine. Both MDs and DOs are licensed medical doctors in the United States. The main difference between the two is that DOs receive additional training in osteopathic manipulative medicine, which is a form of manual therapy.
## How Long Does It Take to Become a Medical Doctor?
The time it takes to become a medical doctor depends on a variety of factors, including the specialty chosen, the length of the residency program, and the student’s ability to pass the USMLE. On average, it takes between seven and ten years to become a medical doctor in the United States.
## What Are the Benefits of Becoming a Medical Doctor?
Becoming a medical doctor can be a rewarding and fulfilling career. Medical doctors have the opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of their patients. In addition, medical doctors are well compensated for their work and often have flexible work schedules.
## Frequently Asked Questions about Becoming a Medical Doctor
### How Many New Doctors Are Licensed Per Year in the US?
Approximately 35,000 new doctors are licensed in the United States each year.
### What Is the Process for Becoming a Medical Doctor?
The process of becoming a medical doctor includes completing a four-year medical degree, completing a residency program, and passing an exam to be licensed to practice medicine.
### What Licensing Exams Are Required to Become a Medical Doctor?
To become a medical doctor, individuals must pass the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE). This exam is divided into three parts: Step 1, Step 2 Clinical Knowledge, and Step 3.
### Are There Different Types of Medical Doctors?
Yes, there are different types of medical doctors. Depending on a person’s interests, they may choose to specialize in a certain field or pursue a subspecialty.
### What Is the Difference Between an MD and a DO?
MD stands for Doctor of Medicine, while DO stands for Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine. The main difference between the two is that DOs receive additional training in osteopathic manipulative medicine.
### How Long Does It Take to Become a Medical Doctor?
On average, it takes between seven and ten years to become a medical doctor in the United States.
### What Are the Benefits of Becoming a Medical Doctor?
Becoming a medical doctor can be a rewarding and fulfilling career. Medical doctors have the opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of their patients and are well compensated for their work.
