On April 10th the state of Arizona became the first state to grant a professional license to any person who becomes an Arizona resident and held a similar license for at least a year in another state without disciplinary action. This law applies almost universally to licensed professions.
WHAT THE NEW LAW DOES
Arizona’s new universal licensing recognition law makes it easier for people who are already licensed in another state to get licensed at the same level in Arizona. Under the new law, Arizona’s licensing boards will recognize out-of-state occupational licenses for people who have been licensed in their profession for at least one year, are in good standing in all states where they are licensed, pay applicable Arizona fees, AND meet all residency, testing, and background check requirements. Applicants interested in receiving their Arizona license under the new law should contact the appropriate Arizona licensing board for an application.
WHAT THE NEW LAW DOES NOT DO
The new law DOES NOT recognize other states’ occupational licenses automatically. For example, workers licensed in other states who move to Arizona still MUST apply for a license through the appropriate Arizona licensing board before working. However, under the new law, workers will not be required to duplicate training and other requirements that often needlessly delay or prevent them from getting to work.
EXAMPLES OF OCCUPATIONS AFFECTED
- Barbers
- Behavioral Health Professionals
- Chiropractors
- Contractors
- Cosmetologists
- Dentists
- Real Estate Agents
- Nurses
- Optometrists
- Pharmacists
- Physicians
- Respiratory Therapists
- Veterinarians
- And more…
HOW THE LAW PROTECTS PUBLIC HEALTH AND SAFETY
Arizona’s new universal licensing law ensures protections for public health and safety. In order to qualify for a license under the new law, an applicant must be in standing in all states where they are licensed and not have any past or pending investigations or complaints. Arizona licensing boards will be required to verify that an individual is in good standing in all states where they are licensed. Individuals seeking to work in occupations that require a background check, such as nurses and behavioral health professionals will still need to complete those background checks. A person may be prevented from receiving a license in Arizona if they have disqualifying criminal background. In addition, professionals receiving licenses under the new law can only become licensed in practice within areas they have been trained and certified to practice in their original state.
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