This infographic provides a concise overview of what it means to be a board-certified dermatologist in the United States, outlines the typical training pathway, highlights major subspecialties, and notes recent updates in micrographic surgery training. It also points to credible sources for these guidelines and requirements.
Key takeaways
- What “board-certified dermatologist” means (US): A physician who completed an accredited dermatology residency and passed the American Board of Dermatology (ABD) exam in general dermatology; must hold an unrestricted medical license and participate in ongoing continuing certification.
- Core training length – dermatology: Typically 4 years after medical school: 1 year internship + 3 years in an ACGME-accredited dermatology residency before board eligibility.
- Common US dermatology subspecialty certifications: Dermatopathology, Micrographic Dermatologic Surgery (Mohs/MDS), Pediatric Dermatology — each requires ABD primary certification plus completion of an ACGME-accredited fellowship in that subspecialty.
- Micrographic Dermatologic Surgery training requirement: Starting with the 2026 exam, all MDS candidates must complete an ACGME-accredited MSDO fellowship; the practice-pathway route ended with the 2025 exam.
- Pediatric dermatology subspecialty – fellowship requirement: Requires completion of a 1-year ACGME- or AOAc-accredited pediatric dermatology fellowship plus current board certification in dermatology and an unrestricted license.