COMLEX-USA
The Pathway to Osteopathic Medical Practice & Licensure in the United States
About COMLEX-USA
The Comprehensive Osteopathic Medical Licensing Examination of the United States (COMLEX-USA) is a three-level, national standardized licensure examination designed for licensure for the practice of osteopathic medicine.
COMLEX-USA assesses osteopathic medical knowledge, knowledge fluency, clinical skills, and other competencies essential for practice as an osteopathic generalist physician. It is also a graduation requirement for attaining a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree from schools and colleges of osteopathic medicine in the United States, and for entry into and promotion within graduate medical education (residency) training programs.
The NBOME follows assessment standards and best practices when evaluating passing standards, ensuring that COMLEX-USA meets and maintains high assessment quality.
View Each COMLEX-USA Exam
Your Road to DO Licensure begins with COMLEX-USA Level 1, typically taken in the second year of medical school. COMLEX-USA Level 2-CE is taken in your third or fourth year, and COMLEX-USA Level 3 is taken during residency. The NBOME recommends waiting six months after starting residency to take COMLEX-USA Level 3. Each Level must be passed in order to take the next and must be taken in numerical order.
The Road to DO Licensure
The NBOME has many resources to assist you on the Road to DO Licensure, including additional learning tools, tips and advice on how to prepare for exam day, and how to maintain wellness during what can be a stressful time.
Related Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
We’ve compiled answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about the NBOME, our products, and services. If you can’t find the information you’re looking for, please feel free to reach out to us.