What is the difference between a lifetime certificate and a time-limited certificate?
Lifetime certificates were issued prior to 1993 and are valid throughout the diplomate’s lifetime. Diplomates who hold a lifetime certificate are encouraged, but not required, to participate in the MOC process. Lifetime certificate holders are entitled to retain their lifetime certificates regardless of whether they pass or fail the MOC examination. Time-limited certificates have been issued since 1993. They are valid for a period of 10 years. Diplomates are required to satisfactorily participate in the MOC process in order to extend the validity of their certificates.
Lifetime certificates were issued prior to 1993 and are valid provided the diplomate maintains a current, valid and unrestricted license to practice medicine. Diplomates who hold a lifetime certificate are strongly encouraged, but not required, to participate in the MOC process in order to maintain their knowledge and meet credentialing requirements. The ABPMR believes that it will become increasingly necessary for lifetime certificate holders to participate in MOC as MOC becomes the standard for defining competence by the public, payers, hospitals, credentialing agencies and more. Time-limited certificates have been issued since 1993. They are valid for a period of 10 years. Diplomates are required to satisfactorily participate in the MOC process in order to extend the validity of their certificates.
Related Questions
- If I have a lifetime certificate and am not required to recertify, are there any benefits to participating in the ABIM Maintenance of Certification process?
- What happens to a time-limited certificate if not all MOC requirements are satisfied during the 10-year cycle?
- What is the difference between a lifetime certificate and a time-limited certificate?
