How to reinstate your Oklahoma CMA license
To reinstate a lapsed Certified Medical Assistant license in Oklahoma, you contact the Oklahoma State Board of Medical Licensure and Supervision, submit a reinstatement request form, pay the required fee, and meet any continuing education requirements that have accumulated since your license expired. The board does not automatically reinstate expired licenses — you must take the first step by reaching out to them directly.
The exact process and cost depend on how long your license has been inactive. A license that expired recently may have a simpler path than one inactive for several years. The board's website lists current requirements, but calling them directly often gets you a faster answer about your specific situation.
Key Takeaways
- Contact the Oklahoma State Board of Medical Licensure and Supervision by phone or mail to request reinstatement forms and learn your specific requirements.
- You will need to pay a reinstatement fee, which varies depending on how long your license has been inactive.
- Continuing education hours may be required if your license has been expired for more than a certain period — the board will tell you the exact number when you contact them.
- The board processes reinstatement requests after they receive your completed forms and payment, and timelines vary by workload.
Contact the Oklahoma State Board of Medical Licensure and Supervision
The Oklahoma State Board of Medical Licensure and Supervision is the only body that can reinstate your CMA license. You can reach them by phone at 405-848-6841 or by mail at 5104 N. Francis Avenue, Suite C, Oklahoma City, OK 73118.
When you call or write, have your name, date of birth, and license number ready if you have it. Tell them your license has expired and you want to reinstate it. They will tell you exactly what forms to submit, what the current reinstatement fee is, and whether you owe continuing education hours. This conversation is the fastest way to learn what your path forward looks like.
Reinstatement fees and how they are set
The board charges a reinstatement fee, but the amount depends on how long your license has been inactive. Oklahoma does not publish a single flat fee on its website — instead, the fee structure may vary based on the length of lapse. When you contact the board, they will quote you the exact amount owed.
You will also need to pay any renewal fees that came due while your license was inactive. For example, if your license expired in 2020 and you are reinstating in 2024, you may owe multiple years of renewal fees in addition to the reinstatement fee itself. The board will itemize all charges when they send you the reinstatement forms.
Continuing education requirements for reinstatement
Oklahoma may require you to complete continuing education hours before reinstatement if your license has been inactive for more than a certain period. The exact threshold and number of hours required are set by the board and can change. When you contact them, ask specifically: "How many continuing education hours do I need to complete before I can reinstate?"
If hours are required, the board will tell you which types of courses count and where you can take them. Some courses are offered online, which may be faster than finding in-person options. You will need to submit proof of completion — usually a certificate — along with your reinstatement forms.
What to submit with your reinstatement request
The board will send you a reinstatement form when you contact them. You will typically need to submit the completed form, proof of any continuing education you completed, payment for all fees owed, and sometimes a brief statement explaining the reason for the lapse. Some boards also ask for proof that you have not been disciplined or convicted of a crime during the inactive period.
Do not guess at what documents are needed — ask the board for a complete checklist when you request the forms. Submitting incomplete paperwork delays reinstatement because the board will have to contact you again to ask for missing items.
Timeline for reinstatement processing
After the board receives your completed forms and payment, processing time varies. Some reinstatements are completed within two to four weeks; others take longer depending on the board's current workload and whether your file requires additional review. The board does not always provide a specific date when your license will be active again.
Once your reinstatement is approved, the board will send you written confirmation and a new license certificate or wallet card. Keep this confirmation in case an employer or facility asks to verify your current status before you receive the physical card.
If your license was inactive for many years
A license inactive for five years or more may face additional scrutiny or requirements beyond the standard reinstatement process. Some states require a refresher exam or additional documentation of current knowledge in the field. Oklahoma's specific rules for long lapses are best learned directly from the board, since requirements can change and your individual circumstances matter.
If you are unsure whether you can reinstate or whether you need to take the CMA exam again, ask the board outright. They can tell you whether reinstatement is still an option or whether you would need to test again to work as a CMA in Oklahoma.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work as a CMA while my reinstatement is being processed?
No. You cannot legally work as a Certified Medical Assistant in Oklahoma with an expired license, even if your reinstatement request is pending. You must wait until the board approves your reinstatement and your license is active again. Some employers may allow you to work in a non-certified role during this time, but that is up to them.
What if I cannot find my original license number?
The board can look up your license number using your name and date of birth. When you contact them, provide those details and they will find your file. You do not need the number to start the reinstatement process, though having it speeds things up.
Do I have to retake the CMA exam to reinstate?
Not usually. Reinstatement is different from retesting. However, if your license has been inactive for a very long time or if the board has concerns about your current knowledge, they may require an exam. Ask the board directly whether an exam is required for your situation.
What if the board denies my reinstatement request?
The board will explain the reason in writing. Common reasons include unpaid fees, unmet continuing education requirements, or disciplinary history. If you disagree with the denial, the board's letter will explain your right to appeal or request reconsideration. Follow those instructions carefully.
Can I reinstate my license if I moved out of Oklahoma?
Yes. You can reinstate your Oklahoma CMA license even if you no longer live in the state. You will still contact the Oklahoma board, submit the same forms and fees, and meet the same requirements. However, check whether the state where you now live recognizes Oklahoma CMA licenses or has its own certification process.