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Credential Renewal Cycles at a Glance
Credentials renew on different clocks, and seeing them side by side explains why a single year can feel full of deadlines.
Typical intervals
| Credential | Typical interval | Note |
|---|---|---|
| State medical license | 1 to 3 years | Set by each board, often tied to a birth month or a fixed date. |
| DEA registration | 3 years | For practitioners; confirm on the DEA site. |
| State controlled substance registration | Varies | Only in states that require one. |
| BLS | 2 years | Common for American Heart Association cards. |
| ACLS | 2 years | Common for American Heart Association cards. |
| CAQH re-attestation | About 120 days | Confirm in your account. |
| Facility reappointment | Up to 2 years | Set by medical staff bylaws. |
| Payer recredentialing | Up to 36 months | Set by the plan. |
| Board certification | Varies | Maintenance programs differ by board. |
Why a calendar is not enough
A calendar tells you a date but not what must be done before it. Each of these credentials has its own prerequisites, such as CME hours before a license renewal or a current license before a DEA renewal.
Build one view
Use a tool, or the free spreadsheet template, to list every credential with its date and lead time.
Limits of this guide
Rules and fees change, and this guide is general information, so confirm the details with the relevant board or agency before you act.
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