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USMLE Step 1 – US Medical Licensing Exam

USMLE Step 1 – US Medical Licensing Exam salary

What people holding this certification commonly earn, the roles it supports, and how it compares with related certifications.

Typical annual pay$200K–$350K (post-residency)Directional range from public salary sources

A range, not a promise. Individual pay depends on the factors below.

What changes the number

Role

The same certification pays differently for an analyst, an engineer and a manager.

Location

Pay varies widely between countries and between cities in the same country.

Experience

Certifications add the most on top of hands-on work you can show.

Employer and industry

Large firms and regulated industries often pay more for certified staff.

Roles that use USMLE Step 1 – US Medical Licensing Exam

PhysicianMedical ResidentSurgeonSpecialist Doctor

Salary compared with other Medical certifications

CertificationLevelTypical salary
USMLE Step 1 – US Medical Licensing ExamAdvanced$200K–$350K (post-residency)
CPC – Certified Professional CoderIntermediate$55K–$80K
RDMS – Registered Diagnostic Medical SonographerIntermediate$65K–$95K
NCLEX-RN – National Council Licensure Exam (Nursing)Advanced$70K–$120K
PANCE – Physician Assistant National Certifying ExamAdvanced$110K–$150K

USMLE Step 1 – US Medical Licensing Exam salary questions

How much do USMLE Step 1 – US Medical Licensing Exam certified professionals earn?

Reported pay for USMLE Step 1 – US Medical Licensing Exam holders is commonly in the $200K–$350K (post-residency) range. Your own pay depends on role, location, employer and total experience.

Which jobs use USMLE Step 1 – US Medical Licensing Exam?

Common roles include Physician, Medical Resident, Surgeon, Specialist Doctor.

Will USMLE Step 1 – US Medical Licensing Exam guarantee a pay rise?

No certification guarantees a raise. It tends to help most when you are applying for a new role or a promotion, alongside real experience you can show.