MDCMEOverview
The American Board of Dermatology (ABD) significantly simplified its continuing certification program effective January 2026. All diplomates start fresh in January 2026 with five years to complete requirements. The program focuses on CertLink participation rather than traditional CME tracking.
Major 2026 Simplifications
The ABD streamlined requirements effective January 2026:
| Previous Requirement | 2026 Status |
|---|---|
| CME credit reporting | No longer required |
| Self-assessment activities | No longer required |
| Multiple separate components | Consolidated into CertLink |
MOC Requirements
The simplified program has two main requirements:
1. CertLink Participation
- Frequency: 3 quarters per year minimum
- Duration: All 5 years of cycle
- Passing score: 73% correct required
- Assessment timing: After 4 years of participation
2. Practice Improvement
- One activity required every 5 years
- Unchanged from previous program
CertLink Assessment
CertLink is the primary continuing certification tool:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Participation | 3 quarters per year minimum |
| Passing score | 73% correct |
| Assessment period | First 4 years |
| Catch-up exam | Required if <73% after 4 years |
Catch-Up Exam
If you don't achieve the 73% passing score within the first 4 years of CertLink participation, you must complete a Catch-Up Exam.
Fees
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Annual fee | $150 |
Note: In January 2027, overdue fees will result in loss of access to CertLink and all continuing certification tools.
Key Deadlines
- January 2026 — Everyone starts fresh on new 5-year cycle
- Quarterly — CertLink participation (3 of 4 quarters required)
- End of Year 4 — 73% score threshold for exam exemption
- End of 2030 — Final 5-year cycle completion
Medical License Requirement
- Must maintain full, unrestricted medical license in US or Canada
- ABD validates licenses through Federation of State Medical Boards (FSMB)
- Annual fee attestation requirement removed in 2026
Tips for ABD MOC
- Participate quarterly — Don't skip more than one quarter per year
- Track your score — 73% threshold determines if you need Catch-Up Exam
- Pay fees promptly — Access to CertLink depends on current payment
- One QI activity — Don't forget the practice improvement requirement
What's NOT Required (as of 2026)
- CME credit reporting
- Separate self-assessment modules
- Annual fee attestation
- Multiple tracking systems
Subspecialty Considerations
Subspecialty certifications may have additional requirements beyond the primary dermatology certification.