Career roadmap
How to Become a Neurologist
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a neurologist, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a neurologist: (1) earn a bachelor’s degree, (2) complete medical school, (3) complete internship, (4) complete neurology residency, (5) pass boards. Most people need about 12 years after high school. BLS lists “doctoral or professional degree” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a neurologist
Earn a bachelor’s degree
Pre-med.
Complete medical school
Four years.
Complete internship
One year.
Complete neurology residency
Three years.
Pass boards
Practice or subspecialize.
Education and training requirements
Medical school, a one-year internship and a three-year neurology residency are required, plus a 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 | 12 years after high school |
Certifications and licenses
- ABPN neurology certification: American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology.
- State medical license: Required.
- Vascular neurology certification: Stroke subspecialty.
- Clinical neurophysiology certification: EEG and EMG.
Skills to build now
Start with neurologic examination, neuroimaging interpretation, and eeg reading, and practice analytical thinking and communication. Learning the neurologist vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Neurology Resident: Train.
- Neurologist: Practice.
- Subspecialist: Stroke, epilepsy or MS.
- Department Chair: Lead neurology.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Neurologist 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 neurologist?
About 12 years after high school.
How long does it take to become a neurologist?
Most people need about 12 years after high school of training. Medical school, a one-year internship and a three-year neurology residency are required, plus a license and board certification.
Do you need a degree to be a neurologist?
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 neurologists?
Common credentials include ABPN neurology certification, State medical license, Vascular neurology certification, and Clinical neurophysiology certification. 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 29-1217 (Neurologists).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Neurologists (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.