Florida’s background screening requirements for physicians will now apply to all licensed practitioners in the state, including those who were previously exempt. Physicians licensed before January 2013 did not have to undergo the electronic fingerprinting process when obtaining their license. However, starting July 1, 2025, House Bill 975 (2024) removes this exemption and mandates that all physicians complete electronic fingerprinting prior to their next license renewal.
Due to the expanded number of healthcare professionals subject to these requirements, the Department of Health has reported delays in processing licensure applications and renewals. The background screening involves several steps and can take time to complete. Physicians whose licenses are set for renewal in January are encouraged by the Department of Health to begin the process early. The Department will send notifications 90 days before a physician’s license expires. Practitioners are advised to verify that their contact information is current ahead of this notification period, as renewal applications cannot be approved until all criteria—including background screening—are met.
Physicians who have already completed Level II background screening do not need to resubmit fingerprints.
Once submitted, fingerprints are stored in Florida’s Care Provider Background Screening Clearinghouse and do not need to be resubmitted at each renewal. However, licensees must retain their stored fingerprints every five years. The Department will notify physicians about retention deadlines approximately 60 days in advance by mail and email. If fingerprints are not retained on time, they will be deleted automatically; new fingerprints must then be submitted within 30 days or disciplinary action may result.
Employers should ensure that all healthcare staff—including physician assistants, midwives, dieticians, occupational and physical therapists, psychologists, and other previously exempt licensed professionals—comply with these updated requirements. Noncompliance could prevent employees from renewing their licenses and may disrupt patient care.
“We understand these new requirements create additional administrative burdens, costs, and inconvenience. Please know that resources are available through the Department of Health and that the FMA is here to help guide you through the process,” said Mary Thomas, Esq., executive director of the Council of Florida Medical School Deans.
Mary Thomas has served as assistant general counsel for over a decade at the Florida Medical Association (FMA) and continues representing FMA before state regulatory boards.
