FAQ
Podiatrist FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as a podiatrist.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming a podiatrist: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about podiatrists
Are podiatrists doctors?
Yes, they hold a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine degree.
Do podiatrists do surgery?
Yes, most are trained in foot and ankle surgery.
How long is training?
Four years of podiatry school plus a three-year residency.
How much does a podiatrist make?
The median annual wage for podiatrists was $160,300 ($77.07 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $66,010 and the highest 10% earned more than $309,670.
How long does it take to become a podiatrist?
Most people need about 11 years after high school of training. A Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM) degree plus a three-year residency are required, along with a state license.
Do you need a degree to be a podiatrist?
Yes. BLS lists a doctoral or professional degree as the typical entry-level education, and you also need a state license to practice.
Is podiatrist a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change +2.0% from 2025–35 (slower than average), with about 200 openings each year. Upsides include high pay; a common challenge is that long training.
What skills does a podiatrist need?
Key technical skills include foot and ankle exam, wound care, foot surgery, and biomechanics. Employers also value communication, empathy, and precision.
What certifications are available for podiatrists?
Common credentials include APMLE exams, State podiatry license, ABFAS board certification, and ABPM board certification. All states license podiatrists after a DPM degree, residency and national exams.
Still deciding?
Try the Podiatrist fit quiz, compare with Chiropractor, or explore Podiatrist training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 29-1081 (Podiatrists).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Podiatrists (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.