Five years of training in an ACGME accredited program is required. Then, successful completion of both a written and oral exam is required to achieve certification. Please refer to the ABOto’s Booklet of Information for additional details.

How is the ABOto different from the AAO-HNS?

The ABOto administers examinations. The AAO-HNS is a membership organization that provides continuing education and other services.

Does the ABOto give CME credits for taking the exam?

No. CME credits are usually awarded for educational activities, such as home study courses or seminar attendance.

Does the ABOto have any publications on procedures or services?

The ABOto publishes a Booklet of Information , which outlines policies and procedures. The Booklet can be downloaded from this website. The ABOto also publishes a brochure, designed for use in the patient waiting area, which explains what an otolaryngologist does, and the training and certification process. These brochures are only sold to diplomates of the ABOto. Click here for pricing and order forms.

Do you provide referrals?

The ABOto is the certifying organization for Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery; we do not provide referrals.

Is my doctor certified? Can you give me background information on a doctor? Is my doctor "in good standing"?

Click on "Diplomate Verification" to confirm that your doctor is certified by the ABOto. However, the ABOto does not provide any other information. You may wish to contact your state medical board to verify licensure. For the phone number and website address for your state, please visit the Federation of State Medical Boards web site at www.fsmb.org

Does the ABOto charge for written verification?

Yes, there is a $35 processing fee for written verification.

Does the ABOto provide mailing lists?

No, the ABOto does not provide lists.

When are future exam dates?

Please click important dates for meeting and exam dates.

How can I obtain an application for the OTE or the Written Exam, and when are applications due?

The application for the Written Exam becomes available May 1st of each year and is due July 10th. The OTE application becomes available September 1st of each year and is due October 25th. These can be downloaded from this website.

When will I know the results of the examination?

Exam results are mailed out no later than six weeks after an exam.

Can you suggest review materials or courses?

Please contact the AAO-HNS for such information.

Why does the ABOto request dues?

Fees for the exam are currently $3,050 per candidate. Many years ago, candidate fees supported all activities of the ABOto. Now, however, such fees barely cover the cost of the examination process. Because increasing demands of the ABOto effect all diplomates, not just those who apply annually for the examination, we implemented diplomate dues in 1990. It was our hope that each diplomate would accept the individual responsibility for assuring the continued success of the ABOto, and well over 80% of our diplomates each year have assumed this responsibility. The are no sanctions for non-payment of dues.

I am retired or disabled. Must I still pay dues?

When you retire, please notify us. Dues invoices will no longer be sent to you. We do not have an "inactive" or "disabled" Diplomate status, but do not expect payment under these circumstances. We will maintain your status as "active" until you request a change to "retired." Please disregard invoices until you have returned to full practice.

When are exam admission tickets mailed?

Admission tickets are mailed three weeks prior to the exam.

Does the ABOto offer recertification?

Not at this time. Ten year, time limited certificates were first issued in 2002. A Maintenance of Certification process is under development, and a pilot exam has been conducted.