This website uses cookies to improve the functionality and performance of the website, to better understand how you use AAPA’s website and services, and to provide you with a customized experience. By continuing your use of this website, you consent to this use of cookies. See our Privacy Policy for more information.

New Graduate Checklist

Congratulations, Graduate! You worked hard to get into your PA program and made the most of your time there. You aced your didactic year and honed your skills during your clinical rotations. You are almost at the finish line. There are just a few more things to accomplish before you become a practicing PA.

Stay on top of all the final milestones and deadlines with the following checklist. This checklist is also available as a printable PDF download so you can check off items as you go.

TAKE PANCE
  • Expect your results in 2 weeks. Save a copy of your NCCPA certificate for licensure.
GET LICENSED IN YOUR STATE, JURISDICTION OR U.S. TERRITORY
  • You can find information about licensure on your licensing board’s website. Expect to pay about $150-400 for initial licensure. Your employer may pay for this up front or reimburse you. Make sure you keep track of your license expiration date.
  • You’ll need to collect these items for licensure (keep PDF copies of all records):
    • References (previous jobs/preceptors/faculty)
    • Copies of transcripts and diplomas from all universities attended
    • Copies of all previous licensures/certifications
    • Background check/fingerprints

Allow 4-12 weeks to receive licensure; be sure to respond promptly to any requests for more information or clarification.

APPLY FOR PRESCRIPTIVE AUTHORITY
  • If required by your licensure authority, you’ll need to apply for prescriptive authority. Visit your licensing board’s website to get more information on what is required.
APPLY FOR AN NPI NUMBER
APPLY FOR A DEA LICENSE
  • Head to the DEA website. Your employer may pay up front or reimburse you. Allow 4-6 weeks to receive your license.
SIGN UP FOR YOUR STATE-CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE MONITORING PROGRAM
ONCE YOU’VE ACCEPTED A JOB, IF REQUIRED BY STATUTE OR REGULATION YOU’LL NEED TO:
  • Identify your supervising/collaborating physician and notify the licensing board, if applicable.
  • Create a practice, delegation, or other agreement or Practice Protocols with your supervising/ collaborating physician and keep a copy at your practice, if required by statute or regulation.
  • Begin the credentialing process, which could take 2 to 6 months. You may be required to pay for this. Consider negotiating for credentialing to be paid by your practice when signing a contract.