Attempts/Time Limits

Number of Attempts Allowed To Complete All Steps and Time Limits:
The USMLE program recommends to medical licensing authorities that they:

• Require that the dates of passing the Step 1, Step 2, and Step 3 examinations occur within a seven-year period; and
• Allow no more than six attempts to pass each Step or Step Component without demonstration of additional educational experience acceptable to the medical licensing authority.

For purposes of medical licensure in the United States, any time limit to complete the USMLE is established by the state medical boards. Many require completion of the full USMLE sequence within seven years from the date the first Step or Step Component is passed or, in some cases, from the date of the first attempt at any Step or Step Component. While medical schools may require students to pass one or more Steps for advancement and/or graduation, you should understand the implications of time limits for licensure. General information regarding state-specific requirements for licensure can be obtained from the FSMB. For definitive information, contact the licensing authority in the jurisdiction in which you intend to seek licensure.

• Multiple Attempts

• Special Notice for MD/PhD Candidates

• Special Notice for International Medical Students and Graduates

Source: http://usmleworldwide.com/blog/?p=1053