Career roadmap
How to Become a Podiatrist
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a podiatrist, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a podiatrist: (1) earn a bachelor’s degree, (2) complete podiatry school, (3) complete residency, (4) pass licensing exams, (5) earn board certification. 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 podiatrist
Earn a bachelor’s degree
Science prerequisites.
Complete podiatry school
Four years.
Complete residency
Three years.
Pass licensing exams
Get licensed.
Earn board certification
Practice.
Education and training requirements
A Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM) degree plus a three-year residency are required, along with a state license.
| 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
- APMLE exams: American Podiatric Medical Licensing Examination.
- State podiatry license: Required.
- ABFAS board certification: Foot and ankle surgery.
- ABPM board certification: Podiatric medicine.
Skills to build now
Start with foot and ankle exam, wound care, and foot surgery, and practice communication and empathy. Learning the podiatrist vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Podiatry Resident: Train.
- Podiatrist: Practice.
- Practice Partner: Own a practice.
- Department Chief: Lead services.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Podiatrist 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 is training?
Four years of podiatry school plus a three-year residency.
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.
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.
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.