English Language Proficiency

As a qualification for initial licensure or registration, applicants must demonstrate oral and written English-language competency.

Competency shall be demonstrated through:

1. Documentation of graduation from a recognized English-speaking high school or undergraduate school after at least 3 years of enrollment;
2. Documentation of graduation from a recognized English-speaking professional school;
3. Documentation of a passing score on the USMLE Step 2 Clinical Skills; or
4. Receiving a score of:
   • At least 5 on the “Speaking Section” of the Internet-based Test of English as a Foreign Language; and
   • At least 5 on all other sections of the Internet-based Test of English as a Foreign Language; or
   • Advanced or higher on the Oral Proficiency Interview.

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Notice ‐ Effective October 1, 2025, an applicant who holds licensure, certification, or registration from another state that requires evidence of English proficiency for licensure, certification, or registration is not required to provide additional evidence of English proficiency (Health Occupations, §1-230, Annotated Code of Maryland).