Physician Licensing Service

THERE ARE TEN STATES THAT REQUIRE YOU SIT FOR THE SPEX EXAM IF YOU DO NOT MEET CERTAIN CRITERIA. UNLESS YOU ENJOY TAKING EXAMS, YOU DON’T WANT THIS ONE TO SURPRISE YOU!

WHAT IS THE SPECIAL PURPOSE EXAMINATION?

Reflecting the fact that unrestricted licensure in the United States is for the undifferentiated practice of medicine, SPEX measures the knowledge and cognitive abilities required of all physicians, regardless of specialty practiced. The questions used in SPEX focus on a core of clinical knowledge and relevant underlying basic science principles deemed necessary to form a reasonable foundation for the safe and effective practice of medicine. Content of SPEX is intended to reflect the knowledge and cognitive abilities of practicing physicians who are five years or more beyond medical graduation.

SPEX is constructed around two primary dimensions reflecting experience in medical practice: clinical encounter categories (well-care/preventive medicine; acute, circumscribed problems; ill-defined presentations or problems; chronic or progressive illness; emergency conditions, critical care; and behavioral/emotional problems) and physician tasks (data gathering; diagnostic assessment; managing therapy; and applying scientific concepts).

WHAT STATES REQUIRE THE SPEX EXAM?
This link will provide you with a list of states that require the SPEX exam and/or and acceptable alternative.

FREE SPEX TEST QUESTIONS
Now you can know what to expect when sitting for the SPEX exam. This link will provide you with sample questions and answers.

STUDY MATERIALS
Don’t waste your time searching through a pile of books and articles. Now you can eliminate the guesswork and study only what is required for the SPEX exam. This link provides you with information on the most cost effective and comprehensive study material available.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS