Career roadmap
How to Become an Orthopedic Surgeon
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as an orthopedic surgeon, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become an orthopedic surgeon: (1) earn a bachelor’s degree, (2) complete medical school, (3) complete orthopedic residency, (4) complete a fellowship, (5) pass boards. Most people need about 14 years after high school. BLS lists “doctoral or professional degree” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become an orthopedic surgeon
Earn a bachelor’s degree
Pre-med.
Complete medical school
Four years.
Complete orthopedic residency
Five years.
Complete a fellowship
One year.
Pass boards
Practice.
Education and training requirements
Medical school plus a five-year orthopedic surgery residency are required; most also complete a fellowship.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | Doctoral or professional degree |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | Internship/residency |
| Typical training time | 14 years after high school |
Certifications and licenses
- ABOS board certification: American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery.
- State medical license: Required.
- Sports medicine subspecialty certification: Added qualification.
- Hand surgery certification: Subspecialty.
Skills to build now
Start with orthopedic surgery, arthroscopy, and joint replacement, and practice decisiveness and stamina. Learning the orthopedic surgeon vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Orthopedic Resident: Train.
- Fellow: Subspecialize.
- Orthopedic Surgeon: Practice.
- Department Chief: Lead orthopedics.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Orthopedic Surgeon 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 orthopedic surgeon?
About 14 years after high school.
How long does it take to become an orthopedic surgeon?
Most people need about 14 years after high school of training. Medical school plus a five-year orthopedic surgery residency are required; most also complete a fellowship.
Do you need a degree to be an orthopedic surgeon?
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 orthopedic surgeons?
Common credentials include ABOS board certification, State medical license, Sports medicine subspecialty certification, and Hand surgery 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 29-1242 (Orthopedic surgeons, except pediatric).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Orthopedic surgeons, except pediatric (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.