There are currently 15 states in the US that require licensure to practice naturopathic medicine as a physician. To obtain this professional license, one must attend a 4-year naturopathic medical school and pass the NPLEX board exam.

*There are other schools that offer correspondence courses in traditional naturopathy and one becomes certified as a "traditional naturopath" and even some call themselves a naturopathic doctor; however, this type of schooling should not be confused with a licensed naturopathic physician who completes 4 years of medical school, passes the board exams, and fulfills a residency.