Pennsylvania Medical License Lookup | Verification

In Pennsylvania, the verification of a physician's credentials is a straightforward process managed by the Department of State. Whether you are a patient ensuring your doctor is in good standing or an employer conducting a background check, the state provides a centralized "primary source" database for this purpose. The official tool for verifying medical professionals in the Commonwealth is the Pennsylvania Licensing System, commonly known as PALS. This database is updated daily and serves as the authoritative record for professional licenses issued by the Bureau of Professional and Occupational Affairs (BPOA).

Official Resource: Pennsylvania Licensing System (PALS) Search Tool

The PALS search interface is designed to be user-friendly. You do not need to create an account or log in to perform a basic search.

Select Search Type: On the landing page, ensure the search is set to "Person."

Enter Search Criteria: You can search by License Number (the most accurate method) or by Full Name. If searching by name, it is helpful to provide the city or zip code to narrow down results, as many physicians share similar names

Once you click "Search," a list of matching professionals will appear. The summary table will show the individual's name, license number, and current status (e.g., Active, Expired, or Disciplinary Action).

View Details: Click on the professional's name to open a detailed profile. This page provides critical information, including: Issue and Expiration Dates, Specialty Type, and Disciplinary History.

Note: The PALS tool is not limited to Allopathic Physicians (MDs). It is a comprehensive resource that covers a wide range of healthcare roles, including osteopaths, physician assistants, nurses, pharmacists, respiratory therapists, and many other licensed health occupations.

By using PALS, you ensure that the information you are receiving is directly from the state regulatory boards, providing the highest level of reliability for medical credentialing.

While PALS is a very comprehensive license lookup resource, separate online license verification tools exist for Pennsylvania nursing aides, health insurance professionals, and health facilities, including hospitals, as indicated below:

Pennsylvania Nurse Aide Registry
Pennsylvania Insurance License Lookup
health insurance professionals
Pennsylvania Quality Assurance Facility Directory
hospitals and other health facilities

Information about medical licensing requirements and disciplinary issues pertaining to health professionals typically are available through Health Licensing Boards in each State. See the listings at U.S. Medical License Lookup for State by State resources outside of Pennsylvania. Alternatively, go to Health and Medical License Lookup to find Medical License Lookup resources aggregated by functional area rather than on a State by State basis.