Membership FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions – Prospective Members
How does one become a “certified” Mohs surgeon?
The American Board of Dermatology (ABD) recently received approval from the American
Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS) for a new board certification in Micrographic Dermatologic Surgery (MDS).
Per the ABD website, candidates for the Micrographic Dermatologic Surgery subspecialty
certification must:
1. Possess a current, valid, full and unrestricted license to practice medicine or osteopathy in at
least one state or province within the United States or Canada;
2. Hold primary certification in general dermatology from ABD;
3. Be up to date in Maintenance of Certification (MOC) if certification by ABD is time-limited;
4. Demonstrate experience in the subspecialty by:
- successfully completing the ACGME-accredited MSDO fellowship
OR - during an initial 5-year practice pathway eligibility period only, attesting to practicing micrographic surgery; and
5. Pass the MDS certification examination.
For additional information, please visit https://www.abderm.org/public/announcements/mds-
subspecialty-certification-approved.aspx.
Is participation in the ASMS Fundamentals of Mohs Surgery course a requirement for membership?
opportunity for all Mohs surgeons, course attendance is a requirement only for Associate Fellow and Fellow membership candidates.
When and where is the ASMS Fellow examination offered?
Candidates are not required to attend the associated meeting in order to sit for the examination, however request must be made to the ASMS at least 30 days prior to the selected exam date, with completed payment of $325.