Career roadmap
How to Become an Emergency Medicine Physician
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as an emergency medicine physician, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become an emergency medicine physician: (1) earn a bachelor’s degree, (2) complete medical school, (3) complete EM residency, (4) pass boards, (5) practice. Most people need about 11–12 years after high school. BLS lists “doctoral or professional degree” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become an emergency medicine physician
Earn a bachelor’s degree
Pre-med.
Complete medical school
Four years.
Complete EM residency
3–4 years.
Pass boards
ABEM certification.
Practice
Join an ED group.
Education and training requirements
Medical school plus a 3–4 year emergency medicine residency are required, along with a state license and board certification.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | Doctoral or professional degree |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | Internship/residency |
| Typical training time | 11–12 years after high school |
Certifications and licenses
- ABEM board certification: American Board of Emergency Medicine.
- State medical license: Required.
- ACLS, PALS and ATLS: Life support and trauma courses.
- EMS or toxicology subspecialty: Fellowship options.
Skills to build now
Start with resuscitation, airway management, and trauma care, and practice decisiveness and multitasking. Learning the emergency medicine physician vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- EM Resident: Train.
- Attending Physician: Practice.
- Medical Director: Lead an ED.
- Chair of Emergency Medicine: Lead departments.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Emergency Medicine Physician training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
How long does it take to become an ER doctor?
About 11–12 years after high school.
How long does it take to become an emergency medicine physician?
Most people need about 11–12 years after high school of training. Medical school plus a 3–4 year emergency medicine residency are required, along with a state license and board certification.
Do you need a degree to be an emergency medicine physician?
Yes. BLS lists a doctoral or professional degree as the typical entry-level education, and you also need a state license to practice.
What certifications are available for emergency medicine physicians?
Common credentials include ABEM board certification, State medical license, ACLS, PALS and ATLS, and EMS or toxicology subspecialty. Physicians need a state medical license after licensing exams and residency.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 29-1214 (Emergency medicine physicians).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Emergency medicine physicians (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.