Last Updated: October 28, 2024. Report error / Make suggestion

If you have a criminal record and are concerned that it may prevent you from getting a professional license, you are now able to send a preliminary application to the Department of Licensing to determine if your record would disqualify you.

Initial Application Requirements

What professions are eligible?

  • The preliminary application only applies to professions directly overseen by the Department of Licensing, or those that are managed by a DOL supported board or commission (click here to see if your profession is eligible)

How do I submit my application?

What information do I need for my application?

  • You’ll need information for every criminal conviction that occurred within the last 5 years. Don’t include traffic convictions. Include details about:
    • What led to the offense.
    • Where it occurred.
    • The date of conviction.
    • Sentencing information (jail or prison time, fines, etc.).
  • Provide as much information as you can recall and any supporting documents. You can contact the county or district clerk where the conviction(s) occurred to get information.

When should I submit my application?

  • You can submit your application at any time, including before obtaining any required education or paying any fee.

What will the DOL consider when making a determination?

  • The nature and seriousness of the offense;
  • The relationship of the offense to the ability, capacity, and fitness required to perform the job
  • Your age at the time of the offense;
  • How long has it been since the offense;
  • Completion of the criminal sentence; and
  • Other evidence of rehabilitation, treatment, testimonials, employment history, and employment aspirations.

How long does the process take?

  • The DOL will make a determination within two months of receiving your application.  
  • If the DOL determines that your criminal record disqualifies you from the profession they will provide a letter outlining a) the specific factors that the DOL deemed disqualifying; (b) advises you of any action you can take to remedy the disqualification; and (c) provides the earliest date you may reapply for a new determination.

When can I reapply if the DOL said I was disqualified?

  • You cannot submit another preliminary application within two years of the previous determination EXCEPT, if you have taken action to remedy the disqualification as advised by the DOL, you may submit another preliminary application six months after the prior determination.

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