How to reinstate your Maryland medical license
Reinstating a Maryland medical license means going through the Maryland Board of Physicians to restore a license that has lapsed, been suspended, or been revoked. The process depends on why your license is no longer active — whether it expired because you didn't renew it, was suspended for a specific violation, or was revoked. Each path has different requirements, timelines, and fees. The Board of Physicians handles all reinstatement requests and will tell you exactly what documents and steps you need based on your situation.
The first step is contacting the Board of Physicians directly to find out your license's current status and which reinstatement route applies to you. You cannot assume the process based on what you think happened; the Board's records are the only source of truth about whether your license expired, was suspended, or was revoked, and each has a different procedure.
Key Takeaways
- Contact the Maryland Board of Physicians to learn your license's exact status, because reinstatement requirements differ for expired, suspended, and revoked licenses.
- An expired license that lapsed due to non-renewal usually requires paying back fees, completing continuing education hours, and submitting a reinstatement form.
- A suspended or revoked license requires meeting specific conditions set by the Board, which may include additional training, monitoring, or a hearing.
- Processing times vary from weeks to months depending on whether your case requires Board review or a formal hearing.
- The Board of Physicians is located in Baltimore and can be reached by phone or mail to begin the reinstatement process.
Determine your license status with the Board of Physicians
Call or write the Maryland Board of Physicians to request your license status. The Board maintains a public database where you can search your name online, but calling is faster if you need when ready clarity on whether your license expired, was suspended, or was revoked. When you contact them, have your license number ready if you have it, or be prepared to spell your full name.
The Board will tell you the exact reason your license is inactive and what reinstatement path you must follow. This conversation also gives you a chance to ask about fees, required documents, and how long the process typically takes for your specific situation. Write down the name of the person you speak with and any reference number they give you, so you can follow up if questions arise later.
The Maryland Board of Physicians can be reached at their Baltimore office. You can also visit their website to search the license database yourself and find contact information for submitting documents by mail or email.
Reinstate a license that expired due to non-renewal
If your license lapsed because you did not renew it by the expiration date, reinstatement usually requires paying renewal fees (including any late fees), submitting a reinstatement form, and providing proof of continuing medical education (CME) hours. Maryland requires physicians to complete a set number of CME hours during each renewal period. If your license has been expired for more than a few years, the Board may require additional documentation or a more detailed process.
Gather your CME certificates or transcripts showing you completed the required hours during the period your license was active. If you did not complete the required hours before your license expired, you will need to complete them now and provide proof before reinstatement is approved. The Board will specify how many hours you need based on how long your license has been expired.
Submit the reinstatement form, proof of CME, and payment to the Board. Processing typically takes two to four weeks if no issues are found with your process. The Board will mail or email you confirmation once your license is reinstated, and you will be able to practice when ready upon receiving that confirmation.
Reinstate a suspended or revoked license
If your license was suspended or revoked, reinstatement is more complex because it requires meeting conditions set by the Board or a disciplinary panel. Suspension is temporary and usually comes with specific requirements you must complete before the license can be restored — such as additional training, a period of monitoring, or completion of a rehabilitation program. Revocation is permanent unless the Board later votes to reinstate it, which is rare and requires a formal petition.
Contact the Board to obtain a copy of the order that suspended or revoked your license. This document lists exactly what you must do to become may be able to access for reinstatement. Follow those requirements precisely and document your completion of each one. If the order requires you to pass a medical examination, complete a specific course, or undergo monitoring, you must finish all of those steps before requesting reinstatement.
Once you have completed all required conditions, submit a written petition for reinstatement to the Board along with proof that you met each requirement. The Board may grant reinstatement based on your petition, or it may schedule a hearing where you can present your case in person. Hearings typically occur within two to three months of your petition, and the Board's decision comes within weeks after that.
Gather required documents before submitting
The documents you need depend on your reinstatement path, but most requests require a completed reinstatement form, proof of identity, and proof of CME hours. If your license was suspended or revoked, you will also need documentation showing you completed any conditions imposed by the Board. Have these items ready before you contact the Board so you can submit everything at once rather than in multiple batches.
Keep copies of everything you send to the Board. The Board will acknowledge receipt of your process, but having your own copies protects you if a document goes missing in the mail or if the Board needs you to clarify something later. Store these copies in a safe place until your license is fully reinstated and you receive written confirmation.
Pay reinstatement fees and renewal costs
Reinstatement fees vary depending on your situation. A license that expired due to non-renewal typically requires paying the current renewal fee plus a late fee. A license that was suspended or revoked may have additional administrative fees. The Board will quote you the exact amount when you contact them about your status.
Payment methods accepted by the Board include check, money order, and credit card. Some payments can be made online through the Board's website, while others must be mailed or submitted in person. Ask the Board which payment method is fastest for your situation and whether paying online speeds up processing time.
Understand the timeline for reinstatement
A straightforward reinstatement for a lapsed license typically takes two to four weeks from the time the Board receives your complete process. If your process is missing documents or if the Board needs to review your case more carefully, processing can take six to eight weeks. A suspended or revoked license that requires a hearing can take three to six months from petition to final decision.
The Board will contact you if they need additional information or clarification on your process. Respond to these requests as quickly as possible, because delays on your end extend the overall timeline. Once the Board approves your reinstatement, you will receive written confirmation and your license will be active when ready.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I practice medicine while my reinstatement is being processed?
No. You cannot practice medicine with an inactive license, even if your reinstatement process is pending. You must wait for written confirmation from the Board that your license has been reinstated before you can see patients or perform any medical duties. Practicing on an inactive license is illegal and can result in additional penalties.
What if I don't know why my license was suspended or revoked?
The Board will provide you with a copy of the order that suspended or revoked your license, which explains the reason and any conditions you must meet. If the order is unclear, you can ask the Board to explain it in more detail. You can also request a copy of the disciplinary file, which contains the full history of the case.
Do I need a lawyer to reinstate my license?
You are not required to have a lawyer, but many physicians hire one if their license was suspended or revoked, especially if a hearing is involved. A lawyer can help you understand the Board's requirements, prepare your petition, and represent you at a hearing. The Board can provide a list of attorneys who specialize in medical licensing matters.
What if the Board denies my reinstatement petition?
If your petition is denied, the Board will provide a written explanation of why. You may be able to resubmit a new petition after addressing the Board's concerns, or you may have the right to appeal the decision. Ask the Board what your options are and whether there is a important date for filing an appeal.
How do I find out the Board of Physicians' contact information and office hours?
The Maryland Board of Physicians is located in Baltimore. You can find their phone number, mailing address, email, and office hours on the Maryland Department of Health website. The Board also maintains a public license search database on that same website where you can look up your license status anytime.