We begin this article about "is a PhD a doctor?" from somewhere between the thrill of earning a doctorate and the confusion at a dinner party when someone asks if there's a doctor in the house. 

There's a lot of room for interpretation in the title of Doctor as it pertains to a PhD. We're going to clarify the technicalities, etiquette, and real-world usage that separates academic pride from everyday introductions.

All I ask is that you set aside what you think “doctor” means—whether you picture someone in a lab coat, medical facility, or someone with a doctorate.

Understanding the PhD

The first part of understanding if getting a PhD makes you a doctor is knowing what a PhD is at its face value. 

A PhD is short for Doctor of Philosophy, but even that definition can be confusing. “Philosophy” here just means “love of wisdom.” The hook for a PhD is a desire and ability to research and contribute new knowledge to a field. 

PhDs exist in science, math, literature, education, history, economics, psychology, and several other areas. You can get a PhD in computer science, medieval poetry, climate change, or sociology—the list goes on. However, you must bring something new to the field through innovation or creation. 

Does Getting a PhD Make You a Doctor?

Anyone who completes a PhD has earned the title of Doctor. Anyone who has earned a doctoral degree in any field is technically a doctor. That's where social norms and writing guides start to muck up the etiquette. 

For example, an attorney who completes a Juris Doctor (JD) degree through law school has technically earned a doctoral degree, though they do not commonly use the title 'Doctor'.

How to Address PhDs in General Conversation

In general conversation, someone with a PhD is technically entitled to be called a “Doctor,” but whether you use it depends on context, setting, and the PhD's personal preference. 

In everyday life, most PhDs don’t insist on the title unless they’re in a professional or academic environment. For example, you might say “Dr. Smith” when introducing a guest speaker at a conference, but just “Jane” at a neighborhood barbecue.

AP Style Writing: PhD vs. Doctor

In writing, the style guide matters. The Associated Press (AP) Stylebook, widely used in journalism, reserves the title 'Dr.' for medical doctors, dentists, and veterinarians. Someone with a PhD would be referred to by name, with their academic credentials explained in the body of the story—for instance, “Jane Smith, who holds a doctorate in chemistry…”

Chicago Style Manual: PhD vs. Doctor

Chicago Style, commonly used in academia and publishing, is more flexible. It allows for the use of “Dr.” for PhDs, especially in contexts where academic titles are relevant. Still, even in Chicago Style, many writers prefer to list the name followed by “PhD” or to refer to their academic role (like “Professor Smith”).

Ultimately, it’s best to follow the norms of the setting and default to whatever the person prefers if you’re unsure. When in doubt, asking is always fine.

Medical Doctors vs. PhDs

The biggest confusion with PhDs vs doctors comes with the assumption that a "doctor" is someone who treats medical issues. 

Medical Doctors (MDs) earn their degree upon graduating from medical school. They then complete a residency, which can last up to seven years, to specialize in a particular field of medicine. They focus on treating illnesses and injuries, diagnosing conditions, prescribing medication, and performing procedures or surgeries depending on their specialty.

MDs will focus on using research and science to improve the health of patients. PhDs in the medical field create research and find new treatments for MDs to use in practice.

Example of PhD vs. Doctor in the Real World

In the 1950s, engineer and PhD Wilson Greatbatch invented the first implantable cardiac pacemaker by developing a small device that could regulate heart rhythms. He partnered with MD William Chardack, a surgeon who successfully implanted the device in a human patient in 1960. 

Greatbatch brought innovation; Chardack brought clinical expertise. Their collaboration is a clear example of how PhDs and MDs can work together to turn scientific breakthroughs into life-saving treatments. They both have the educational right to be called Doctors.

Global Differences in the Use of "Doctor"

The guidance so far about "Does getting a PhD make you a doctor?" goes as far as the United States' borders. How is this handled around the rest of the world? Here are a few examples:

  • United Kingdom: Both medical doctors and PhDs are called “Doctors.” You’ll often see “Dr. Jane Smith,” whether she’s a cardiologist or a chemistry researcher. 
  • Germany: Titles are taken very seriously. Anyone with a PhD can be formally called “Dr.,” and if they hold multiple doctorates, you might even see “Dr. Dr.” written. Medical doctors and PhDs both use “Dr.” in official documents, signage, and everyday introductions.
  • France: Medical doctors are usually addressed as “Docteur” in practice. PhDs can use the title, too, but it’s more common in academic settings and less emphasized socially.
  • Japan: Medical doctors use the term "ishi" (医師), and the honorific "sensei" (先生) is often used for both doctors and PhDs. “Sensei” is more about respect for a teacher or expert than a direct translation of “Doctor.”
  • Brazil and many Latin American countries: People with PhDs are referred to as “Doutor” or “Doctora,” just like medical doctors. Titles are used more formally and often included in legal documents, business cards, and formal conversations.

Even with the similarities and differences, a PhD who moves overseas travels with the title better than an MD. A medical doctor likely would have to go through more training or residencies. A PhD will only need to adapt to the new language or research requirements.  

The Final Answer: Does a PhD Make You a Doctor? 

By all technical definitions, yes, a PhD has earned the title of doctor. The only caveat is that PhD holders should never portray themselves as medical doctors. 

Regardless of your desired title, it helps to understand which career path is right for you. We have quizzes to help you get started.