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Locum Tenens Credentialing Checklist

Locum assignments often start on a tight schedule, so the clinicians who are ready quickly are the ones who kept their paperwork in order between assignments.

Last reviewed November 1, 2026. General information, not legal or compliance advice.

Licenses and registrations

• Active license in the state of the assignment, or a plan and timeline to obtain one.
• DEA registration for that state, and any state controlled substance registration.
• Board certification and the current expiration date.
• NPI and a current CAQH profile if the facility asks for one.

Documents the agency usually requests

• Curriculum vitae with no unexplained gaps.
• Diploma, residency certificate and ECFMG certificate if relevant.
• Life support cards such as BLS and ACLS.
• Immunization and TB records and a recent health attestation.
• Malpractice history and references.

Facility steps

The facility will usually run its own verification and privileging process, which can include an application, primary-source verification and a committee decision. Ask the agency early for the facility's timeline.

Keep it ready

Assemble the documents into a packet and refresh it each time a card or license renews. See the packet guide and locum tenens credentialing.

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.