California

Doctors MUST Use the Name Listed on Their Medical License – It is the Law

Honesty goes a long way in patient-doctor relationships.  Not only does this honesty apply to when patients are talking about their health; it also applies to the name doctors use to practice medicine.  Doctors must be aware that they are legally required to obtain a Fictitious Name Permit (FNP) if they want to use a name other than what is on their license.  The Fictitious Name Permit allows the doctor to practice medicine under a different name.