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Allergists/Immunologists

Certification, Licensing, and Special Requirements

Certification or Licensing

Certification from the American Board of Allergy and Immunology requires a valid medical license, proof of residency completion, and written evaluation from the residency director. The evaluation reviews the candidate's clinical judgment, attitude, professional behavior, and other work skills and habits. The certification exam tests the candidate's knowledge of the immune system, human pathology, and the molecular basis of allergic and other immune reactions. The candidate must also show an understanding of diagnostic tests and therapy for immunologic diseases. Dual certification is also available in allergy/immunology and pediatric pulmonology, adult rheumatology, and pediatric rheumatology. There are about 4,460 board-certified allergists/immunologists in the United States.

All physicians in the United States must be licensed to practice. Some states have reciprocity agreements with other states so that a physician licensed in one state may be automatically licensed in another without being required to pass another examination.

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