For how long are the USMLE Steps valid?

[rox]

I was wondering if one needs to retake the exams after a certain number of years if s/he decides to go into residency or fellowship training.

I am aware that many states require the steps to be completed within 7 years...but not sure for how long they are valid.

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[exPCM]

Since most states have a 7 year rule then the de facto answer is the steps are de facto valid for 7 years.

 

[Ludicolo]

Correct. For the purposes of residency training, step 1 and 2 scores are valid for 7 years as well.

State licensure requirements regarding time limits to complete all steps, and maximum allowed # of attempts, vary from state to state.

http://www.fsmb.org/usmle_eliinitial.html

Once you pass step 3 within the permissible amount of time – limits no longer apply.

 

[rox]

Once you pass step 3 within the permissible amount of time – limits no longer apply.

Does that mean if I pass Step 3 within 7 years from the date of my first Step exam then I can start a residency/fellowship even after 7 years?

 

[psymed]

According to the FSMB site http://www.fsmb.org/usmle_eliinitial.html, some of these states like NY don't have a limit on clearing your Steps but everytime I've asked fellow residents about this they don't seem to know anything about it.

My understading is that if it states that there is is no limit on clearing USMLE licensing examination sequence in your state then you should be safe even if you take your Step 3 later than seven years from when you took your first exam.

Is this correct?

 

[sweetspring]

According to the FSMB site http://www.fsmb.org/usmle_eliinitial.html, some of these states like NY don't have a limit on clearing your Steps but everytime I've asked fellow residents about this they don't seem to know anything about it.

My understading is that if it states that there is is no limit on clearing USMLE licensing examination sequence in your state then you should be safe even if you take your Step 3 later than seven years from when you took your first exam.

Is this correct?

If you call the FSMB, they will tell you USMLE exam scores never expire.
However, the statute of limitation on completing the sequence does vary by state, as per the table mentioned above.