The application process is a deliberate process, which generally takes approximately 90 days from the time the LSBME receives the completed application.

LSBME conducts verification of credentials and processes applications in the order they are deemed “acceptable” by internal quality assurance standards.

Applicants and holders of licenses, permits, certificates and/or registrations have a continuing obligation to notify the LSBME of any and all changes to answers on the application, including change of mailing address (es).

Make a copy of the application before completing it in the event of a mistake.

The LSBME conducts primary source verification of credentials and criminal background check of applicants.

Type or block print the information requested according to instructions. Sign all documents in blue or black ballpoint pen. LSBME Analysts will not interpret or make assumptions about the information reported. Illegible information results in processing delays.

The LSBME depends on third-party sources to provide information and data. For that reason, there are delays presented that are beyond the control of the LSBME.

When all primary source information is collected and all other requirements are met, the application is presented to the LSBME in the order it becomes complete. The LSBME does not expedite processing of one application over another.

Provide a response to each piece of information in the application packet. Items that are not applicable should be marked “N/A” for Not Applicable. Applicant may be required to clarify, in writing, any item that is left blank on the application.

Applications are maintained in pending status until all applicable information is received by the LSBME.

Include all components of the requested information, especially complete names and addresses of institutions. Failure to submit full addresses may result in delays.

The LSBME meets monthly, except during April and November. Only those applications that are complete are presented to the Board for review.

To avoid delays and misidentification, the applicant should double-check spelling and accuracy of the information provided.

Generally, applicants are contacted within approximately 7-10 working days thereafter by U.S. Mail at the address on the application. Applicants with e-mail addresses may also be contacted by the LSBME within three days of the decision of the LSBME.

All applicants approved by the LSBME may refer to the following agency electronic address for verification of board approval: lsbmever@lsbme.la.gov

Print full last name at the top of each page of the application form in the space provided.

For reference, make a copy of completed application before filing it with the LSBME.

The LSBME does not accept cash. Monies must be in U.S. currency, except as otherwise specifically provided. See “LSBME Fees and Charges by Third Party Providers”.

LSBME staff is prepared to answer questions about how to complete the application as well as to provide general status of application once received. 1.  “General status” is defined as confirmation of whether a specific document has been received by LSBME. 2. Further specific information about the application packet (which requires speaking directly with the assigned Analyst) is generally unavailable until after 30 days from the date the LSBME receives the application packet. 3. For purposes of providing information referenced herein, the date the LSBME receives the application is the date the check, money order, or certified monies are deposited in the LSBME account. 4. For that reason, the applicant should forward the application and fees to the application processing address listed throughout this booklet. 5. Applicant may refer to the date of deposit of fees to establish the commencement of the processing timeline. Applicants, who need proof of the date the LSBME begins processing the application, should use this information and their canceled check for that purpose. The LSBME web site provides a means of verifying status of license, permit, certificate and/or registration.

All requirements for license permit, certification and/or registration must be met before any license, permit, certification and/or registration is issued by the LSBME.

LSBME conducts a criminal background check of applicants through the state (Louisiana Department of Public Safety and Corrections (DOC) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) as part of the application process as required by state law. Materials can be obtained on our website by clicking on Licensure then on the Criminial Background Check link. Applicants with criminal history may expect delays in the application process.

Applicant must account for all time from high school graduation to present. Normal school vacation (summer months) is the exception. An application is considered incomplete if all time is not accounted for in the application.

Under certain circumstances, the LSBME may establish additional requirements for license, permit, certificate and/or registration.

Only the LSBME can advise regarding the requirements for license, permit, certificate and/or registration. The LSBME shall not be bound by nor will it be held responsible for instructions or advice given by another source.

Applicants are advised not to rely, at any time, upon verbal advice from any source.

Application must be complete before making a personal appearance before a member of the LSBME or member of an Advisory Committee of the LSBME, as applicable. See “Personal Appearances” herein.

The LSBME receives a large number of status calls daily. In order to expedite processing, please allow at least 30 days before inquiring about the status of an application.

Laws and the rules and regulations of the LSBME provide the requirements for license, permit, certificate and/or registration. Laws, rules and regulations are subject to change. Laws, rules, and regulations applicable at the time that an application is complete and received by the LSBME are the laws, rules, and regulations applied. Eligibility and qualification for licensure are based upon applicable laws, rules and regulations and not upon verbal advice of staff and/or any other source. Applicants should refer to the LSBME web site for links to laws, rules and regulations.