FAQ
Family Medicine Physician FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as a family medicine physician.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming a family medicine physician: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about family medicine physicians
How long does it take to become a family doctor?
About 11 years after high school.
Is there a shortage of primary care doctors?
Yes, many areas, especially rural ones, have shortages.
Do family doctors see children?
Yes, they care for all ages.
How much does a family medicine physician make?
The median annual wage for family medicine physicians was $244,180 ($117.39 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $76,830 and the highest 10% earned more than $428,550.
How long does it take to become a family medicine physician?
Most people need about 11 years after high school of training. Medical school plus a three-year family medicine residency are required, along with a state license and board certification.
Do you need a degree to be a family 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.
Is family medicine physician a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change +3.3% from 2025–35 (about as fast as average), with about 2,900 openings each year. Upsides include long-term patient relationships; a common challenge is that lower pay than specialists.
What skills does a family medicine physician need?
Key technical skills include diagnosis across ages, chronic disease management, preventive care, and minor procedures. Employers also value empathy, communication, and patience.
What certifications are available for family medicine physicians?
Common credentials include ABFM board certification, State medical license, DEA registration, and Sports medicine or geriatrics certificate. Physicians need a state medical license after licensing exams and residency.
Still deciding?
Try the Family Medicine Physician fit quiz, compare with Internist, or explore Family Medicine Physician training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 29-1215 (Family medicine physicians).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Family 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.