Alongside standard, full and unrestricted medical licenses, a number of states offer a more limited license type sometimes called a special purpose license, telemedicine license, or similar designation. These are generally designed for physicians who want to practice telehealth with patients located in that state without holding a full, unrestricted license there.
What the limited license typically covers
A special purpose or telemedicine license is generally scoped narrower than a full license, often restricting the physician to remote or telehealth encounters rather than in-person practice within the state. Some versions also limit the license to consultation with another physician rather than direct patient treatment, so the exact scope depends heavily on how the individual state has structured the license type.
Why states offer this option
States that offer a limited telemedicine license generally do so to make it easier for out-of-state physicians to provide remote care, particularly in specialties or geographic areas facing access gaps, without requiring the full application burden of an unrestricted license. This can shorten the path to authorization for physicians who only intend to practice remotely in that state.
A special purpose telemedicine license is typically narrower than a full license — useful for remote-only practice, but not a substitute for full licensure in every case.
Where it falls short of a full license
Because the scope is limited, a special purpose license generally does not authorize in-person practice in that state, and may not authorize the full range of prescribing or procedural activity available under a full license. Physicians who anticipate eventually practicing in person, or who need broader prescribing authority, may find a full license, including through the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact where applicable, a better long-term fit.
Availability differs by state
Not every state offers a special purpose or telemedicine license, and among those that do, the application process, fees, and renewal requirements differ. Some states have discontinued or modified these license types over time as their broader telehealth licensure framework evolved, so availability should not be assumed to be static.
Because availability and scope of special purpose or telemedicine licenses vary by state and change over time, always confirm current requirements directly with the relevant state board or agency before making a compliance decision.