International Licensing Guides
Important: This guide provides general information for foreign-trained professionals seeking US licensure. International licensing pathways change frequently. Always verify requirements directly with the credential evaluation agency, state licensing board, and — for visa questions — a qualified immigration attorney. LicenseMap does not provide legal or immigration advice.
These guides are for professionals who earned their degrees outside the United States and want to practice in the US. Each guide covers credential evaluation, required exams, visa considerations, estimated costs, and state-by-state licensing requirements.
Guides by Profession
Registered Nurse (RN)
CGFNS credential evaluation, VisaScreen, NCLEX-RN, and state licensure
Physician (IMG)
ECFMG certification, USMLE exams, residency match, and state licensure
Dentist
Advanced standing programs, INBDE exam, clinical licensure exams
Pharmacist
FPGEC certification, FPGEE exam, NAPLEX, MPJE, and state licensure
Physical Therapist
FCCPT credential evaluation, NPTE exam, and state licensure
Professional Engineer (PE)
NCEES credentials evaluation, FE and PE exams, and state licensure
Architect
NCARB EESA evaluation, AXP experience, ARE exam, and state licensure
CPA (Certified Public Accountant)
NASBA credential evaluation, 150 credit hours, CPA exam, and state licensure
Veterinarian
ECFVG certification, NAVLE exam, and state licensure
Nurse Practitioner (NP)
US RN licensure first, then graduate NP program, certification, and APRN licensure
Occupational Therapist
NBCOT credential review, education equivalency, OTR exam, and state licensure
Speech-Language Pathologist
Credential evaluation, education equivalency, Praxis SLP, ASHA CCC-SLP, and state licensure
Psychologist
Doctoral equivalency evaluation, supervised hours, EPPP exam, and state licensure
Dental Hygienist
CODA-accredited program, NBDHE exam, clinical exam, and state licensure
Radiologic Technologist
ARRT education equivalency, ARRT certification exam, and state licensure
Credential Evaluation
Credential evaluation is the process of comparing your foreign education against US standards. Most professions require evaluation by an approved agency before you can apply for a US license.
Credential Evaluation Guide →General Process Overview
While every profession has unique requirements, most international licensing pathways follow a similar pattern:
- Credential evaluation — Have your international education and credentials assessed by an approved agency
- English proficiency — Pass a required English exam (TOEFL iBT, IELTS Academic, or profession-specific equivalent)
- Professional examinations — Pass the same licensing exams required of US-educated professionals (NCLEX, USMLE, NPTE, NAPLEX, etc.)
- Additional training — Some professions require supplementary education or supervised practice hours in the US
- State licensure — Apply for licensure with the specific state where you intend to practice
- Visa and immigration — Secure an appropriate work visa or immigration status (consult an immigration attorney)