How long after training am I eligible to take the pediatric dermatology subspecialty certification exam?
Certification in general dermatology is required prior to certification in pediatric dermatology. Candidates remain eligible for certification in pediatric dermatology for five years after completion of their fellowship as long as they hold primary certification or are board eligible for primary certification by the ABD. An individual who is not eligible for certification in general dermatology is not eligible for certification in pediatric dermatology.
A pediatric dermatologist who has not been certified within five years of training may no longer claim to be “board eligible” unless the ABD determines that that physician has been prevented from taking the exam within the applicable five-year period by military deployment or by catastrophic illness. If either of these situations exists, a dermatologist wishing to claim to be “board eligible” or wishing to take the exam after the expiration of the five-year period may be granted a one- or two-year deferral by submitting a request to the Board. The decision to grant or deny a deferral will be at the sole discretion of the Board.
