How many years does it take to become a psychiatrist?

Many : It takes 4 years of college, 4 years of medical school, and 4 years of psychiatric residency. Plus, many of us also do additional fellowships within psychiatry. So, at minimum 12 years after high school, and more depending on your fellowships. Becoming board-certified is an additional step.

For humans...: 4 years of college for a bachelors, which may include the required pre-medical courses. 4 years of medical school. 4 years of general psychiatric residency. Any fellowships add 1-2 years each. Internship is generally the first year of residency. Assuming no gaps, (which we can never really assume), it is a minimum of 12 years beyond high school. Don't forget the human element: mileage varies.

Many: Four in college, four in med school, four or more in residency, depending on subspecialization.