How Do I Register to Take the Usmle

How Do I Register to Take the Usmle
Step 1 or Step 2 applications may be printed from the USMLE Web site.
The application allows applicants to select one of 12 overlapping three-month
blocks in which to be tested (e.g., April–May–June, June–July–August). The
application includes a photo ID form that must be certified by an official at
your medical school to verify your enrollment. After the NBME processes
your application, it will send you a fluorescent orange slip of paper called a
scheduling permit.
The scheduling permit you receive from the NBME will contain your USMLE
identification number, the eligibility period in which you may take the exam, and
two unique numbers. One of these is known as your “scheduling number.” You
must have this number to make your exam appointment with Prometric. The
other number is known as the “candidate identification number,” or CIN. Examinees
must enter their CINs at the Prometric workstation to access their exams.
Prometric has no access to the codes. Do not lose your permit! You will not be
allowed to take the boards unless you present this permit along with an unexpired,
government-issued photo identification with your signature (such as a driver’s
license or passport). Make sure the name on your photo ID exactly matches
the name appearing on your scheduling permit.
Once you receive your scheduling permit, you may call the Prometric tollfree
number to arrange a time to take the exam. Although requests for taking
the exam may be completed more than six months before the test date, examinees
will not receive their scheduling permits earlier than six months before
the eligibility period. The eligibility period is the three-month period you
have chosen to take the exam. Most medical students choose the April–June
or June–August period. Because exams are scheduled on a “first-come, firstserved”
basis, it is recommended that you telephone Prometric as soon as you
have received your permit. After you’ve scheduled your exam, it’s a good idea
to confirm your exam appointment with Prometric at least one week prior to
your test date. Prometric does not provide written confirmation of exam date,
time, or location. Be sure to read the 2006 USMLE Bulletin of Information
for further details.