The National Board of Podiatric Medical Examiners (NBPME) examinations are written qualifying tests currently recognized or utilized by legal agencies governing the practice of podiatric medicine in the states, provinces, and federal agencies listed in the Candidate Bulletin. Legal agencies may, at their discretion, grant successful candidates a license to practice podiatric medicine without further written examination.
The National Board examinations consist of three objective examinations; Part I, Part II, and Part III, formerly known as The Podiatric Medical Licensing Examination for States (PMLexis). Part I is generally taken after the completion of the candidate's second year of study. It samples the candidate's knowledge in the basic science areas of General Anatomy; Lower Extremity Anatomy; Biochemistry; Physiology; Medical Microbiology and Immunology; Pathology; and Pharmacology. Questions covering these content areas are interspersed throughout the test. Part II is generally taken near the completion of the candidate's final year of study. It samples the candidate's knowledge in the clinical areas of General Medicine; Dermatology; Radiology; Orthopedics/Biomechanics; Surgery/Anesthesia/Hospital Protocol; and Community Health/Jurisprudence. Questions covering these content areas are interspersed throughout the test. Part III is a licensing exam designed to determine whether a candidate's knowledge and clinical skills are adequate for safe practice.