Illinois Cultural Competency CE Requirement for Physicians
Starting with the July 31, 2026 renewal, all Illinois physicians must complete 1 hour of cultural competency continuing education. This new state-mandated requirement applies to all licensed physicians in Illinois.
What You Need to Know
- Required: 1 hour of cultural competency training
- Frequency: Every 6 years
- First Deadline: July 31, 2026
- Applies To: All Illinois physicians
- Counts Toward: Your 150-hour CME requirement
What Is Cultural Competency?
According to Illinois law (68 Ill. Adm. Code 1130.525), cultural competency means “a set of integrated attitudes, knowledge, and skills that enables a healthcare professional to care effectively for patients from diverse cultures, groups, and communities.”
This training helps you:
- Understand how cultural background influences patient health beliefs
- Communicate effectively with diverse patient populations
- Reduce health disparities in your practice
- Provide more equitable, patient-centered care
Other Illinois CME Requirements for 2026
In addition to cultural competency, Illinois physicians must complete:
Every 3 Years:
Every 6 Years:
- Safe Opioid Prescribing – 1 hour (if you hold a controlled substance license)
- Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia Care – 1 hour (if you see patients 26+)
Save time and money: Complete all 4 mandated courses at once with our Illinois Mandatory Bundle (Sexual Harassment, Implicit Bias, Cultural Competency, and Alzheimer’s).
Complete Your Cultural Competency Requirement Online
Renew Now CE offers a 1-hour online cultural competency course that meets Illinois state requirements.
Course Features:
- ✓ ANCC-accredited continuing education
- ✓ Meets Illinois IDFPR requirements
- ✓ 100% online – complete on any device
- ✓ Self-paced learning
- ✓ Instant certificate of completion
Complete Your Cultural Competency CE Now →
FAQs
When did this requirement start?
The first deadline is July 31, 2026.
Does this increase my total CME hours?
No. The 1 hour counts toward your existing 150-hour CME requirement.
Can I complete this now, before my renewal?
Yes. Any training completed during your current license cycle (August 1, 2023 – July 31, 2026) counts toward the requirement.
I’m a new physician – do I need this for my first renewal?
Physicians renewing for the first time after initial licensure are exempt from the 150-hour CME requirement, including mandated topics.
Don’t wait until the July 31, 2026 deadline. Complete your cultural competency requirement today or save with our 4-course Illinois bundle.
Last Updated: October 2025 | Illinois Physician License Renewal Deadline: July 31, 2026
