Florida bill would expand path to licensure for doctors in critical‑need areas, help address physician shortage

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – A newly filed bill would make it easier for physicians working “in areas of critical need” in Florida to obtain full medical licensure through endorsement – a pathway to obtain a full state license based on their existing credentials and experience.

House Bill 809, filed for the 2026 legislative session by Rep. Yvette Benarroch (R-Marco Island), would expand eligibility for doctors who hold temporary certificates to practice in underserved communities. The proposal amends several sections of state law to allow certain temporary certificateholders to qualify for licensure if they meet new experience, examination and professional‑conduct requirements.

“Florida families deserve access to a doctor no matter where they live. Right now, too many communities are underserved simply because of their ZIP code, and that is not acceptable,” Benarroch said on social media.

Under the bill, physicians who have practiced under a temporary certificate for at least two of the past four years, maintained continuous service in an approved facility and passed a national licensure exam — or an equivalent exam recognized by the Board of Medicine — could apply for full licensure by endorsement. Applicants would also need recommendations from supervising physicians and a record free of disciplinary action.

The measure also adds a new pathway for certificateholders who trained in Puerto Rico, allowing those who passed the Puerto Rico Medical Board’s certifying exam and have practiced for four consecutive years to qualify for endorsement.

The Board of Medicine would be authorized to issue licenses to applicants who meet all criteria and to adopt rules outlining verification and documentation standards.

According to the Association of American Medical Colleges, the U.S. faces a physician shortage of up to 86,000 physicians by the year 2036. Florida is ranked as the state with the most severe projected shortage, according to Becker’s, a healthcare media company.

If approved, the changes would take effect July 1, 2026.