Transition to Practice
Starting practice in Ontario
Everything you need to know to begin independent family medicine practice in Ontario — from CPSO registration to your first day in clinic.
Who this guide is for
New graduates
Completing residency in Ontario
International medical graduates
Entering Ontario practice from abroad
Relocating physicians
Moving to Ontario from another province
Your step-by-step onboarding guide
CPSO registration
Required first- Apply to the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) for a certificate to practise
- Determine your certificate class: Independent Practice, Educational, or Short Duration
- Gather required documents: medical school diploma, residency completion letter, MCCEE/MCCQE results, references
- Timeline: Allow 4–8 weeks minimum; apply early
OHIP billing number
Required- Apply to ServiceOntario for your OHIP billing number
- Choose your billing model: FHO, FHT, capitation, FFS — each has different incentives
- Set up billing software (many EMRs include billing modules)
- Contact the OMA for billing guidance and fee schedule resources
Professional liability coverage
Required before seeing patients- Register with the Canadian Medical Protective Association (CMPA)
- CMPA rates vary by practice type — solo, shadow billing, academic
- Ontario physicians may receive CMPA rebates from the Ontario government
- Confirm your CMPA category matches your actual practice
OMA membership
Strongly recommended- Join the Ontario Medical Association (OMA) for advocacy support, legal resources, group insurance and billing guidance
- OMA negotiates physician compensation on behalf of Ontario physicians
- New graduate membership available at reduced rates
OCFP membership
Strongly recommended- Join the Ontario College of Family Physicians for professional support, education, advocacy and resources
- Access the OCFP resource library, Mainpro+ events and peer networks
- Connect with the OCFP Transition to Practice community
Practice setup
Before opening- Choose a practice location and model (solo, FHT, CHC, hospital)
- Select and implement an EMR — OntarioMD can help evaluate options
- Complete infection prevention and control (IPAC) requirements
- Set up secure communication tools for referrals and patient messaging
- Register with Health Quality Ontario quality improvement programs if applicable
CFPC Certification (if not already held)
For residency graduates- Apply to sit the CFPC Certification Exam after completing residency
- Maintain Certification through Mainpro+ continuing professional development
- OCFP offers exam preparation resources and events
Download the complete checklist
A detailed, printable version of every step — with links, timelines and space to track your progress.
View & download checklist →Need support from OCFP?
Whether you are a new graduate, an international medical graduate or a physician relocating from another province, OCFP has peer networks, resources and staff who can help.
Contact OCFP →