What Is the Difference Between Licensure and Certification in Healthcare?

Behind every successful healthcare provider lies a complex web of essential administrative requirements that are often overlooked. Delays in onboarding new clinicians or a single credentialing error can quickly escalate into serious operational challenges. A common source of confusion stems from understanding the distinction between licensure and certification, terms frequently used interchangeably but with distinct meanings and implications.

In this article, we’ll discuss the differences between licensure and certification in healthcare. Understanding these differences can help you avoid costly mistakes and ensure your team is set up for success.

Licensure vs Certification: Understanding Their Differences

Healthcare organizations often require both licensure and certification to hire or retain qualified professionals, but each serves a unique function and is governed by different authorities.

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the differences:

Licensure: Legal Permission to Practice

Licensure is the process by which a government authority—most often a state agency—grants permission to individuals to legally practice a specific profession (such as medicine, nursing, or therapy) after verifying that they meet established criteria.

Key Features

• • Mandatory. Licensure is required by law to provide clinical care or certain healthcare services.
  • Regulated by the State. Each state sets its own requirements for education, training, examinations, and background checks.
  • Scope of Practice. Licensure defines what services the provider is legally allowed to perform within that jurisdiction.
  • Renewal & Compliance. Licenses generally must be renewed periodically and are subject to ongoing requirements (e.g., continuing education, background checks).
  • Examples. State medical licenses for physicians, nursing licenses for RNs, dental licenses for dentists, etc.

Purpose: Licensure protects public safety by ensuring only qualified professionals deliver medical services. Practicing without holding a license is illegal and can result in severe penalties.

Certification: Demonstration of Professional Expertise

Certification is a voluntary process provided by a non-governmental organization (such as a professional board or association) that recognizes an individual’s expertise or advanced knowledge in a specific area of healthcare.

Key Features:

• • Voluntary (in most cases). Certification is often not legally required to practice but can enhance a provider’s credentials and employment opportunities. However, some employers or specialties may require certification in addition to licensure.
  • National or Specialty-Based. Certification standards typically apply across many states and are set by national professional organizations (e.g., the American Nurses Credentialing Center and the American Board of Medical Specialties).
  • Specialized Knowledge or Skills. Certification demonstrates proficiency in a distinct area, such as cardiology, pediatric nursing, or medical coding.
  • Maintenance. Certifications may require ongoing education and periodic renewal to remain valid.
  • Examples. Board certification for physicians (e.g., board-certified in Internal Medicine), Certified Medical Coder, and Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA).

Purpose: Certification signals a higher or specialty level of expertise and commitment to professionalism. It assures employers, peers, and patients that the professional has met rigorous standards in their field.

The Standard Process of Acquiring Licenses and Certifications

After learning what the difference is between a certification and a licensure, the next step is understanding the process in acquiring licenses and certifications. This information is vital for healthcare professionals looking to start or advance their careers. While the processes have some similarities, each comes with its own set of requirements and procedures.

Here’s a breakdown of what to expect when pursuing licensure and certification in the healthcare field:

The Standard Process of Acquiring Licenses

1. Meet Educational Requirements

The first step in obtaining a healthcare professional license is completing the necessary educational program. This typically involves graduating from an accredited institution with a degree or diploma specific to your field, such as a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), Doctor of Medicine (MD), or Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS). Accreditation guarantees your education meets state-mandated quality and curriculum standards.

2. Fulfill Clinical Training or Internship

Most healthcare licensing boards require candidates to complete a set amount of supervised clinical training or an internship/residency. This hands-on experience is integral for developing practical skills and ensures readiness for patient care. The specific number of hours and type of training will depend on the profession and state requirements.

3. Pass Required Examinations

After fulfilling education and clinical training requirements, candidates must pass one or more standardized examinations to demonstrate competency in their field. These exams may be national—such as the USMLE for physicians or the NCLEX for nurses—or state-specific, and they typically test both theoretical knowledge and practical application.

4. Complete Background Checks and Submit Applications

Applicants must submit comprehensive documentation to the state licensing board, including proof of education, exam results, work history, and personal identification. Most states require background checks to ensure the applicant does not have a criminal record, which would inhibit safe practice.

5. Pay Applicable Fees

Applying for a healthcare license involves application and examination fees, as well as sometimes background checks or fingerprinting fees. Costs vary by state and profession.

6. Obtain and Maintain Licenses

Once all requirements are satisfied, the state licensing board reviews the application and, if approved, distributes the license. Licensed professionals are required to maintain their status by meeting continuing education requirements, adhering to renewals, and complying with evolving state regulations. Failing to renew or meet ongoing obligations can result in suspension or loss of licensure.

The Standard Process of Acquiring Certifications

1. Confirm Eligibility Requirements

Each certification board or association establishes criteria that must be met before candidates are allowed to apply. Requirements often include a minimum level of education, a certain amount of professional experience, and sometimes current state licensure in a related field. Reviewing eligibility guidelines is crucial before beginning the process.

2. Prepare for and Complete Certification Education or Training (If Required)

Some certifications require completing a specialized training program or additional coursework specific to the certification’s focus. Others simply recommend studying through self-paced materials, review courses, or workshops. The intent is to ensure candidates possess foundational and advanced knowledge in the specialty area.

3. Apply and Submit Documentation

The application involves providing proof of eligibility—such as degree transcripts, proof of licensure, employed hours, and any required training certificates—to the certifying organization. Application deadlines, required materials, and processes vary by certifying body.

4. Pass the Certification Examination

Most certifications require passing a written or practical examination that assesses deep understanding and practical proficiency in the specialty. Exams are often offered at testing centers, online, or sometimes at industry conferences.

5. Receive and Publicize Certification

Upon completing the examination and reviewing the application, candidates are awarded certification. This is often accompanied by a digital badge, formal certificate, or listing in a professional registry. Certification typically enhances job prospects, credibility, and earning potential.

6. Maintain Certification

Most professional certifications are valid for a set period (often 2–5 years) and require professionals to engage in ongoing education or professional development activities to keep their skills current. Renewal may involve submitting proof of ongoing education, payment of renewal fees, and, in some cases, retaking the exam.

Make Licensing Simple—Trust Practice Support for Your Medical License Application Needs

Ready to take the next step in your healthcare career? Don’t let the licensing process hold you back. Practice Support offers nationwide stress-free medical license application services for physicians, nurses, pharmacists, and allied health professionals. Our expert team manages every detail—from credential verification to document submission—providing a smooth, efficient, and cost-effective experience.

Contact us now to save time and avoid costly errors. Let our professionals guide you through a seamless licensure process!