How Long Does It Take to Get a Medical Doctor License?

Becoming a doctor is one of the most respected and challenging career paths in India. But along with completing medical studies, every doctor must also get a license before they can officially practice medicine. If you’re wondering “How long does it take to get a medical doctor license in India?”,let’s explain it in plain terms, step by step.

1. MBBS Degree (5.5 Years)

Earning an MBBS degree from an accredited medical school is the first step. This typically takes 5.5 years, which includes one year of required internship and 4.5 years of academic education.  Without completing MBBS, you cannot apply for a license.

2. Internship Completion

After finishing the academic part, students must complete a 1-year internship in hospitals. This training is necessary to get hands-on experience in different medical fields like surgery, pediatrics, gynecology, etc.

3. National Exit Test (NEXT)

From 2024 onwards, India is introducing the NEXT exam (National Exit Test). Students would need to pass this test after MBBS. It will serve two purposes:

• Granting a medical license to practice.

• Entrance exam for postgraduate studies (MD/MS).
  

So, without passing NEXT, no doctor will be given a license.

4. Applying for License (Few Weeks to Months)

Once you clear NEXT and complete your internship, you can apply for a license from the National Medical Commission (NMC) or the respective State Medical Council. The approval process usually takes a few weeks to a few months, depending on the state and how fast documents are verified.

5. Total Time Taken

If we add everything together:

• MBBS: 5.5 years

• Internship: Already included in MBBS duration

• NEXT exam preparation + result: Few months

• License application process: Few weeks to months
  

So, in total, it usually takes around 6 years after starting MBBS to finally get your medical license and start practicing as a doctor in India.

Is the NEXT exam compulsory for all doctors?

Yes, the NEXT (National Exit Test) exam is compulsory for all doctors in India. It has been introduced to replace the NEET-PG and the Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE). Every medical student who completes their MBBS degree in India will have to clear the NEXT exam to get their license to practice medicine. Similarly, foreign medical graduates who want to work as doctors in India must also pass this exam. In short, whether you studied in India or abroad, clearing NEXT is mandatory to become a registered medical doctor in India.

How do foreign medical graduates get a license in India?

Foreign Medical Graduates (FMGs) who wish to practice medicine in India must go through a specific licensing process. First, they need to complete their MBBS or equivalent degree from a recognized foreign medical university. After returning to India, they are required to pass the Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE), conducted by the National Board of Examinations (NBE). This exam ensures that their knowledge meets Indian medical standards. Once they qualify, they must complete a one-year compulsory internship at a medical college or hospital recognized by the National Medical Commission (NMC). After finishing the internship, they can register with the State Medical Council or the NMC, which officially grants them a license to practice medicine in India.

Who issues the medical license in India?

In India, the medical license to practice as a doctor is issued by the National Medical Commission (NMC), which has replaced the former Medical Council of India (MCI). After completing an MBBS degree from a recognized medical college, doctors must clear the National Exit Test (NExT) or other required exams set by the NMC. After meeting the requirements, they can register with the State Medical Council (SMC) or the NMC. This registration provides them with a unique registration number and the legal authority to practice medicine in India.

Is a medical license permanent in India?

No, a medical license in India is not permanent. Once a doctor gets registered with the National Medical Commission (NMC) or a State Medical Council, the license is valid for a certain period (usually 5 years) and must be renewed. Doctors are also required to update their skills through Continuing Medical Education (CME) to maintain their license. If not renewed on time, the license can become invalid, and the doctor cannot legally practice.

Conclusion

Becoming a licensed doctor in India is a long journey, but it’s worth it. After around 6 years of study, internship, and clearing the NEXT exam, you can proudly call yourself a registered medical doctor and begin your professional career. Contact Us 

Frequently Ask Questions

• What is a medical doctor license?
  It allows a physician to legally practice medicine in Dubai under DHA regulations.

• Who needs a medical doctor license?
  All doctors intending to work in hospitals, clinics, or private practice in Dubai must have one.

• How do I apply for a medical doctor license?
  Apply online via the DHA portal, submit your credentials, pass required exams, and pay the fees.

• What documents are required?
  Passport, medical degree, postgraduate certificates, experience letters, and a good standing certificate are needed.

• How long does it take to get licensed?
  Processing can take a few weeks to several months depending on verification and exam schedules.

• Is the license renewable?
  Yes, DHA medical licenses must be renewed periodically, usually every 1–2 years, with updated documents and fees.