If you’re a licensed physician or other medical professional in Indiana, you already know that license renewals come around every two years. For doctors, the next major renewal deadline is October 31, 2025.
Most physicians log into the state’s online portal, pay the renewal fee, and move on without issue. But for many others, renewal time can turn stressful — especially if you’re unsure how to answer a background question or you’ve already had your renewal or reinstatement flagged, delayed, or denied.
If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone — and it’s important to handle it carefully. Mistakes made during renewal can trigger a review by the Indiana Medical Licensing Board, and that can affect your ability to keep practicing.
Common Problems During Indiana Medical License Renewal
Even experienced physicians can find themselves stuck or second-guessing their answers on the renewal or reinstatement form. The application includes a list of background questions that may seem simple but can carry serious implications.
Many doctors contact our firm after one of these issues:
- You’re unsure whether to disclose an old arrest, malpractice settlement, or board complaint.
- You accidentally answered a question incorrectly (for example, marked “no” when it should’ve been “yes”).
- You disclosed something minor that’s now under board review.
- You’re facing delays or requests for additional information from the Board after submitting your renewal.
- Your reinstatement was denied or you received notice of a pending investigation.
These situations can happen to anyone — and often, they result from honest confusion, not intentional nondisclosure. Unfortunately, the Board treats inaccuracies seriously, even when unintentional.
Understanding the Background and Disclosure Questions
When you renew or reinstate your Indiana medical license, you’ll be asked several questions about your professional and legal history. These are designed to identify issues such as:
- Prior disciplinary actions or investigations by any licensing board
- Arrests, criminal charges, or convictions, even if they happened years ago
- Malpractice judgments or settlements
- Employment terminations, reprimands, or professional discipline
- License denials or suspensions in other states
- Medicare or Medicaid exclusions
The problem is that many professionals don’t realize what counts as “reportable.”
For example, a dismissed charge or an expunged record may still need to be disclosed depending on the wording of the question. Similarly, even if another state resolved an issue years ago, the Board still expects honesty about it.
The safest approach is simple: if you’re not sure whether to disclose, talk to an attorney first. Guessing or omitting something small can cause far bigger problems later — including board hearings, delays, or disciplinary action.
If You Answered a Question Wrong on Your Renewal
If you realize after submitting your renewal that you answered a question incorrectly, don’t panic — but don’t ignore it, either. Contact a professional license defense attorney as soon as possible.
In many cases, your lawyer can help you:
- Correct the record before the Board reviews your application
- Submit a clarification or supplemental statement explaining the situation
- Gather supporting documentation to show good faith and accuracy
- Communicate directly with the Board or its staff on your behalf
The earlier you get help, the easier it is to fix. Waiting until after the Board opens a formal case can make the process much more complicated.
What If Your Renewal or Reinstatement Was Denied?
If your Indiana medical license renewal was denied or you’ve been told you need a hearing, that’s a sign the Board has questions or concerns about your application. This can happen for a variety of reasons:
- You failed to disclose something they later discovered
- Your responses raised red flags about past conduct or criminal history
- You have an unresolved disciplinary matter in another state
- The Board is missing documents or needs clarification
You still have options. Denial does not necessarily mean you’re done practicing — but you do need to act quickly. With legal help, you may be able to provide additional information, request a review, or resolve the issue through a negotiated outcome.
Reinstating an Expired or Inactive Indiana Medical License
If you missed the renewal deadline or your license has lapsed, you’ll need to apply for reinstatement. Reinstatement requires additional documentation — including your work history, any disciplinary records, and updated background information.
If you’ve been out of practice or licensed in another state, the Board may also request verification or additional proof of good standing. Because reinstatement applications are reviewed individually, a simple paperwork mistake or incomplete disclosure can lead to denial or delay.
If your reinstatement application has been denied or you’ve been asked to appear before the Board, don’t try to navigate it alone. Legal representation can make the difference between a successful reinstatement and a permanent mark on your record.
Protect Your Medical License Before It’s at Risk
Your medical license is the foundation of your career — and the renewal process shouldn’t jeopardize that. If you’re unsure how to answer a renewal question, if your license renewal was denied, or if you’ve been contacted by the Indiana Medical Licensing Board about your application, contact Callahan Law Firm.
We help Indiana physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals handle renewals, reinstatements, and disciplinary issues with the state boards. Our goal is to protect your license, your reputation, and your ability to practice medicine.
Don’t wait for a formal complaint or hearing notice. If you think there could be a problem — or if there already is — reach out for confidential help today.
