Federation Credentials Verification Service (FCVS) for Locum Tenens Doctors: The Complete Guide
/Federation Credentials Verification Service (FCVS) for Locum Tenens Doctors: The Complete Guide
Locum tenens work rewards speed: the faster you can secure and maintain state licenses, the more shifts you can accept—often with better pay and better scheduling leverage. Unfortunately, medical licensure is paperwork-heavy, repetitive, and slow because state medical boards typically require primary-source verification (PSV) of key credentials (medical school, training, identity, exam history, etc.).
That’s exactly what the Federation Credentials Verification Service (FCVS)—run by the Federation of State Medical Boards (FSMB)—is designed to solve. FCVS creates a permanent, lifetime repository of “core” credentials that have been verified directly from original sources, and it allows you to send those verified credentials to participating state boards when you apply for licensure.
If you do locums (or plan to), FCVS can be one of the highest-leverage admin steps you take—if you set it up correctly and understand where FCVS helps, where it doesn’t, and how it interacts with state-by-state requirements.
This guide covers what FCVS is, what goes into an FCVS profile, how to apply, timelines, costs, common pitfalls, and locum-specific strategies. Then you’ll find a big FAQ section you can reference whenever licensing issues pop up.
1) What FCVS is (and what it’s not)
What FCVS is
FCVS is a service that:
Collects and verifies your core credentials directly from primary sources (schools, training programs, etc.).
Builds an FCVS Medical Professional Profile (a verified portfolio) that can be sent to state medical boards as part of licensure applications.
Functions as a lifetime repository you can reuse across your career, rather than re-requesting the same documents over and over.
This can be especially valuable when:
You’re applying to multiple states over time (classic locums scenario)
Your school/training program is slow to respond
You’re an international graduate and verifications are more complex (FSMB notes this as a common advantage use-case).
What FCVS is not
FCVS is not:
A medical license or a replacement for a state medical board application
A guarantee of fast licensure (boards still have their own review, fingerprinting, jurisprudence, etc.)
A complete credentialing solution for hospitals (privileging often needs more data than FCVS)
A substitute for state-specific items like background checks, fingerprints, state forms, jurisprudence exams, and fees
Think of FCVS as your verified “base layer” that you can reuse.
2) Why locum tenens doctors should care
Locum licensing friction typically shows up in four places:
Repeated verification requests
Every time you apply to a new state, you may be asked for the same medical school transcript, diploma verification, residency verification, exam history, identity documents, etc.Delays from third parties
The slowest part is often waiting on institutions to respond to verification requests—something FCVS explicitly warns about, recommending you apply early because timelines depend on schools and programs.State-to-state differences
Some states require FCVS for certain license types or pathways; others accept it but don’t require it; and some boards have special workflows tied to FSMB tools.Opportunity cost
If you miss a start date because you’re stuck in credential verification, you’re not just annoyed—you’re losing billable shifts.
For locums, FCVS tends to pay off most when you:
Intend to hold multiple state licenses
Want to be able to pursue an assignment quickly when a good one appears
Expect to do locums for years, not just once
3) What’s in an FCVS profile?
FCVS describes the process as verifying a set of core credentials by working directly with the appropriate institutions. Exact contents can vary by your background, but commonly included categories are:
Identity
Medical Education
Postgraduate Training
Examination History (typically for state licensing authorities)
Board action / disciplinary history
ECFMG certification (if applicable)
A state education site (New York’s physician licensing information) summarizes these categories when explaining FCVS as a permanent PSV repository.
FCVS is focused on credentials that “don’t change much” (school, training, exam history), not things that change constantly (current work history, references, privileging logs).
4) FCVS, state medical boards, and the Uniform Application (UA)
Many state boards use the FSMB Uniform Application (UA) for physician licensure, and FCVS often functions as the PSV companion to UA workflows. FSMB describes how boards may use UA for the application and FCVS for verification of identity/education/training documents.
Key practical point for locums:
Even if a state “accepts FCVS,” the board may still require board-specific forms, fingerprinting, NPDB queries, jurisprudence, or employment documentation.
5) Do all states require FCVS?
No.
Some boards require FCVS for certain applicants or license types (state instructions may explicitly state that FCVS submission is required). For example, New Hampshire licensure instructions state that applicants are required to submit background credentials to FCVS.
Other boards accept FCVS as an option for PSV.
Some boards integrate FCVS/UA into their preferred workflows.
Because requirements can change, use FCVS as a portable base layer, but always verify each state’s current rule set on the board’s site before you assume “FCVS is enough.”
6) Costs and fees: what to budget
FCVS has an initial application fee and then additional fees when you send profiles to additional recipients. FSMB’s FCVS costs page and its associated support documentation describe this structure.
As of the FSMB support article updated September 22, 2025:
Initial application fee (physicians): $395 (includes creation of portfolio and delivery of one profile to one recipient)
Subsequent profiles: $99 each, plus applicable verification charges
Additional profiles at the same time: $65 each in some cases
International graduates may see an ECFMG-related fee (e.g., a one-time verification fee and/or certification status report fees depending on what is needed).
Practical budgeting for locums:
Plan your “base cost” (initial FCVS) + a “per new state” FCVS send fee + the state’s own licensure fees + fingerprinting/background fees.
7) Timeline: how long FCVS takes (and why)
FCVS processing time is not guaranteed because it depends heavily on how quickly schools and training programs respond. FSMB explicitly encourages applicants to apply at least two months before they need the profile submitted, noting that unforeseen delays can occur.
Some boards caution that establishing a profile can take months in certain cases. For example, Maryland’s site warns FCVS can take several months and advises applicants accordingly.
Why timelines stretch
Common causes:
Training programs that require manual signatures or paper processes
Medical schools that are slow to verify transcripts
Name discrepancies (marriage, hyphenation, initials)
International verification (ECFMG, translations, etc.)
Missing or incomplete forms
Locum strategy: Treat FCVS setup like an “off-season project,” not something you start after you find an assignment.
8) Step-by-step: how to set up FCVS the smart way
FCVS works best when you approach it like a project with inputs, dependencies, and quality control.
Step 1: Gather your “source truth” documents
Before you start, collect:
Government ID documents (as required)
Medical school diploma and transcripts (or whatever you can access)
Residency/fellowship completion documentation
Exam history basics (you may not need originals, but know dates/IDs)
Name change documents (if applicable)
Even if FCVS will request items from institutions, you want your own copies to:
Confirm dates and spellings
Identify discrepancies early
Speed up responses when asked
Step 2: Apply early, with a real recipient in mind (when possible)
FCVS has a “self-designation” pathway for those who want to establish credentials before choosing a recipient, but FSMB notes this version does not include certain elements like ECFMG certification report or exam score transcript.
If you already know a target state, you may prefer designating that board so your first profile send is immediately useful.
Step 3: Watch for verification bottlenecks
FCVS’s own tips stress that delays often come from institutional responses.
Your job is to:
Respond quickly to any FCVS requests
Proactively contact schools/programs if you know they’re slow
Make sure contact info for your school/program is correct
Step 4: Quality-control your profile
Once FCVS produces your profile, treat it like a legal document:
Verify exact names, dates, graduation year, program names, degree type (MD/DO), etc.
Check for missing training entries or mis-labeled institutions
Resolve discrepancies before you “blast” it to multiple state boards (errors multiply delays)
Step 5: Use FCVS as a reusable “credential engine”
For locums, the win is repeatability:
Keep your FCVS profile current
When you apply to a new state, send the FCVS profile early—often in parallel with the state application—so it’s already in motion
9) Locum tenens workflow: where FCVS fits in the bigger licensing puzzle
A typical locums licensing pipeline looks like:
Choose state(s) based on demand/pay/schedule
Start state license application (or UA where applicable)
Request PSV (FCVS can cover a chunk of this)
Background check / fingerprints (state-specific)
Jurisprudence exam (some states)
License issued
Hospital credentialing + privileging (separate but related)
Payer enrollment (if needed, often separate from locums assignments)
FCVS mainly impacts Step 3—but Step 3 is frequently the critical path.
10) Common FCVS mistakes that slow down locums
Mistake 1: Starting FCVS only after you sign an assignment
By then you’re already late. FCVS itself recommends applying at least two months ahead due to unpredictable delays.
Mistake 2: Assuming FCVS = guaranteed speed
Even with FCVS, boards still do their own review. Some boards explicitly warn FCVS can take months in certain cases.
Mistake 3: Name inconsistencies
If your diploma, transcript, residency paperwork, and government ID don’t match (even slightly), expect delays.
Mistake 4: Incomplete training history
If you did multiple sites, prelim years, research years, leaves, or nonstandard pathways, ensure your training is documented clearly.
Mistake 5: Not tracking who owes what
You need a simple tracker:
Institution contacted
Form sent date
Follow-up date
Response received date
Any issues
11) FCVS and international medical graduates (IMGs)
FCVS is often particularly useful for IMGs because verifications can be time-consuming and challenging, and FCVS highlights that benefit directly.
In addition, FSMB’s fees documentation includes ECFMG-related fees (for example, a one-time medical education verification fee for international graduates).
If you’re an IMG doing locums, FCVS can be a strong “once-and-done” move—set it up carefully, then reuse it.
12) Practical “locums power moves” with FCVS
Power move A: Build FCVS before you need it
Do it during a lighter clinical period. The best time to start FCVS is when you don’t need it urgently.
Power move B: Pick 2–4 “anchor states”
Many locums clinicians maintain a cluster of licenses in:
One home state
One or two high-demand states
One “backup” state that frequently has locums needs
FCVS makes expansion easier once the base profile exists.
Power move C: Parallel process everything
When pursuing a new state:
Submit the application (or UA) and fees
Initiate fingerprints/background checks
Send FCVS to the board
Start hospital credentialing intake
Don’t wait for one step to finish before starting the next unless required.
Power move D: Keep a “credential vault”
Even with FCVS, you will be asked for:
Case logs (sometimes)
References
Current CV format for a facility
Malpractice claims history documentation
Procedure privileges documentation
Keep a clean folder system so you can respond fast.
13) FCVS in real life: what success looks like
For a locum tenens doctor, FCVS success is:
You have a clean FCVS profile
It can be sent to any new board quickly
Your state applications spend less time stuck on PSV
Your credentialing staff/agency stops nagging you for school/residency verifications
It doesn’t eliminate licensure friction—but it reduces the most repetitive part.
FCVS for Locum Tenens Doctors — FAQ (Deep Dive)
A) Basics
1) What does FCVS stand for?
FCVS is the Federation Credentials Verification Service, operated by the FSMB.
2) Is FCVS the same thing as “Federation Credentials Verification System”?
People often say “system,” but FSMB’s official naming is Federation Credentials Verification Service (FCVS).
3) What problem is FCVS trying to solve?
It reduces repeated, state-by-state requests for primary-source verification of core credentials by creating a single lifetime repository you can reuse.
4) Does FCVS replace state medical board licensure applications?
No. It supports the application by handling credential verification; the board still controls licensure decisions and state-specific requirements.
5) Who uses FCVS?
State medical boards may accept or require it as a PSV method for identity/education/training credentials.
B) What’s in the profile?
6) What types of documents does FCVS verify?
FCVS verifies core categories like identity, medical education, postgraduate training, exam history (for licensing authorities), disciplinary history, and ECFMG certification (if applicable).
7) Does FCVS include my full CV, employment history, and references?
Typically, no—those are often part of state applications and facility credentialing, not the FCVS “core credential” repository.
8) Does FCVS store everything forever?
FSMB describes FCVS as a permanent, lifetime profile repository of verified core credentials.
9) If something changes (like a name change), can FCVS be updated?
FCVS profiles are meant to be maintainable and usable over time; if you have a name change or other critical identity update, you should plan to update the repository so boards don’t see mismatches.
C) State requirements and acceptance
10) Do all boards accept FCVS?
Many do, but not universally—and acceptance rules vary. FSMB notes many boards accept FCVS, and some may require it.
11) Do any boards require FCVS?
Yes—some boards explicitly require FCVS submission for certain pathways. Example: New Hampshire instructions state applicants are required to submit background credentials to FCVS.
12) If a state requires FCVS, does that mean I can’t apply without it?
If the requirement applies to your license type/pathway, then FCVS is part of the process. Always confirm on that state’s official board site because requirements can change.
13) Does FCVS guarantee my state license gets approved?
No. It’s a verification tool. Licensure decisions depend on board review, background checks, and other state requirements.
D) Timelines and delays
14) How long should I expect FCVS to take?
FCVS encourages applying at least two months in advance because credential verification depends on third-party responses and delays can occur.
Some boards caution it can take several months in some cases.
15) What is the biggest cause of delay?
Slow responses from medical schools and training programs. FCVS explicitly flags this dependency.
16) Can I speed it up?
You can’t control institutions, but you can:
Submit a complete, accurate application
Respond immediately to FCVS requests
Proactively contact your school/program to watch for verification requests
Fix name/date discrepancies early
17) Should I wait to start FCVS until I have a specific locums job?
If you’re serious about locums, usually no. FCVS is most valuable when it’s ready before you need it.
E) Fees and costs
18) How much does FCVS cost?
Fees vary by profession and profile delivery needs. FSMB’s costs information includes an initial application fee and additional fees for subsequent profiles.
As of a September 22, 2025 FSMB support update, physician initial application fee is listed as $395 and subsequent profiles as $99 (with additional profile pricing in some cases).
19) Do I pay FCVS and the state medical board separately?
Yes—FCVS fees are separate from state application fees, fingerprinting, and other board costs.
20) Are there extra fees for international graduates?
FSMB’s fee documentation includes ECFMG-related charges for some international graduate verifications.
21) Is FCVS “worth it” financially for locums?
Often yes if you’ll apply to multiple states over time or if your institutions are slow. If you only ever plan to hold one state license, the ROI may be smaller.
F) FCVS vs hospital credentialing
22) Does FCVS replace hospital credentialing?
No. Hospital credentialing and privileging can require:
Work history detail
References
Case/procedure logs
Malpractice/claims documentation
Facility-specific forms
FCVS helps with core PSV; hospitals still do their own credentialing.
23) Will facilities accept FCVS documents?
Some credentialing teams may use FCVS as one component, but facility credentialing requirements vary widely. Think of FCVS as a “board licensure accelerator,” not a complete facility credentialing package.
G) FCVS and the Uniform Application (UA)
24) What is the FSMB Uniform Application (UA)?
UA is a multi-board application system used by some state boards. FSMB notes UA is used for licensure applications and FCVS can be used for credentials verification in conjunction with it.
25) If a board uses UA, do I still need FCVS?
Sometimes yes, sometimes optional—depends on that board. UA is the application; FCVS is the credentials verification mechanism many boards accept or require.
H) Common problems and how to fix them
26) My name doesn’t match across documents—what happens?
Expect delays. Name mismatches are one of the most common PSV issues. Fix it by providing legal documentation (marriage certificate, court order) and ensuring FCVS has the correct identity record.
27) My residency program changed names or merged—will that break verification?
It can complicate it. Provide FCVS with the best current contact details and documentation showing the program’s continuity.
28) I did multiple residencies/fellowships—does that slow things down?
It can, because each program must respond. The more institutions involved, the more dependencies you have.
29) My school is international and slow to respond. What can I do?
Proactively contact the school’s records office, confirm where verification requests go, and ensure forms will be completed promptly.
30) What if my training happened a long time ago?
Older records can be slower to retrieve. Start earlier and expect manual processes.
31) Can I apply for a state license while FCVS is still processing?
Often yes—you can submit the application and indicate FCVS is in progress, then have FCVS send the profile once ready. Specific rules vary by board.
I) Best practices for locum tenens doctors
32) When should I start FCVS if I want to do locums this year?
A practical rule: start FCVS at least 2+ months before you think you’ll need it (and earlier if you have complex training history), aligning with FCVS’s own “apply early” guidance.
33) How do I choose which states to license first?
Pick:
Your home state (if not already)
1–2 high-demand locums states where you’re willing to work
A “backup” state with frequent needs
Then expand based on demand and your specialty.
34) Should I keep multiple licenses active?
For locums, often yes—if you’re actively working. The cost and CME burden can be worth it for access to better assignments and schedule flexibility.
35) What’s the most efficient licensing workflow?
Parallel process:
State application
FCVS send
Fingerprints/background
Facility credentialing intake
Avoid serial bottlenecks.
36) What should I keep in my “locums credential vault” besides FCVS?
Keep digital PDFs of:
Current CV (monthly updates)
All licenses, DEA, board certs
CME summaries
Malpractice face sheet + claims history letter (even “no claims” letter)
References list with updated contact info
Immunizations, TB testing, NPI, etc.
J) Quick answers (one-liners)
37) Is FCVS mandatory for locums?
Not universally—but it’s commonly helpful, and some states require it.
38) Does FCVS make licensing “fast”?
It can reduce repeated PSV friction, but boards still have their own steps.
39) Is FCVS only for international grads?
No—FSMB notes it’s especially helpful for IMGs, but it’s designed for physicians broadly.
40) What’s the #1 FCVS tip?
Apply early. FCVS explicitly recommends at least two months ahead.