Which examination must PAs pass to obtain licensure?

Which examination must PAs pass to obtain licensure?

• A. PANCE
• B. USMLE
• C. NBME
• D. MCAT

Answer: (A)

The requirement for licensure is passing the Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam. This exam, run by the NCCPA, demonstrates entry‑level PA knowledge and is the standard pathway to certification that most states recognize for licensure. Once certified, you typically complete any state-specific steps (such as background checks or other requirements) and maintain certification through periodic recertification (PANRE) every so often. For context, the USMLE is the licensing exam for physicians (MD/DO), the MCAT is for medical school admission, and NBME develops various medical exams but not the PA licensure pathway.

The requirement for licensure is passing the Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam. This exam, run by the NCCPA, demonstrates entry‑level PA knowledge and is the standard pathway to certification that most states recognize for licensure. Once certified, you typically complete any state-specific steps (such as background checks or other requirements) and maintain certification through periodic recertification (PANRE) every so often. For context, the USMLE is the licensing exam for physicians (MD/DO), the MCAT is for medical school admission, and NBME develops various medical exams but not the PA licensure pathway.