Career roadmap
How to Become a Family Medicine Physician
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a family medicine physician, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a family medicine physician: (1) earn a bachelor’s degree, (2) complete medical school, (3) complete family medicine residency, (4) pass boards, (5) practice. Most people need about 11 years after high school. BLS lists “doctoral or professional degree” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a family medicine physician
Earn a bachelor’s degree
Pre-med.
Complete medical school
Four years.
Complete family medicine residency
Three years.
Pass boards
ABFM certification.
Practice
Clinic or hospital.
Education and training requirements
Medical school plus a three-year family 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 years after high school |
Certifications and licenses
- ABFM board certification: American Board of Family Medicine.
- State medical license: Required.
- DEA registration: To prescribe controlled substances.
- Sports medicine or geriatrics certificate: Added qualifications.
Skills to build now
Start with diagnosis across ages, chronic disease management, and preventive care, and practice empathy and communication. Learning the family medicine physician vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Family Medicine Resident: Train.
- Family Physician: Practice.
- Medical Director: Lead a clinic.
- Practice Owner or Chief Medical Officer: Lead organizations.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Family 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 a family doctor?
About 11 years after high school.
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.
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.
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.