November 13, 2009

Dear Friends:

There are many benefits to holding a state-issued professional license. For one, consumers can feel confident that licensees have met the experience, education, and other qualifications required to obtain that license. Some licensees are also required to have workers' compensation insurance to protect consumers should a worker sustain injuries on the job. All of our licensees must disclose criminal histories on their applications.

By disclosing criminal histories on applications, the department can take the necessary steps to ensure that only qualified candidates receive licenses. Ultimately, decisions regarding licensing are made by the appropriate professional board, council or commission.

Consumers and licensees may wonder, "What happens if there's criminal activity after initial licensure?" During the 2009 Legislative Session, the Florida Legislature passed House Bill 425, which became law last month on Oct.1. The law requires all professional licensees to report to the department within 30 days of being convicted or found guilty of, or having plead nolo contendere or guilty to a crime in any jurisdiction.

Failing to report this information could subject a licensee to disciplinary action, including fines, suspension or license revocation. To report this information, licensees should complete the criminal self-reporting document and mail it to the department.

The department's relationship with licensees is a reciprocal one. We give and take information and services in order to support the industries we serve and protect consumers. Licensees should rest assured that in most cases minor infractions, such as a criminal traffic violation, may not affect their license status at all. However, it is still necessary to report this information. Together, we can protect consumers and maintain the integrity associated with having a state license.

Sincerely,

Charles W. Drago
Secretary

Department of Business and
Professional Regulation
1940 North Monroe Street
Tallahassee, Florida 32399
Customer Contact Center:
850.487.1395
www.MyFloridaLicense.com