Licensure protects public health, safety and welfare, but the process shouldn’t create unnecessary barriers. CLARB’s Rethink Regulation initiative streamlines policies, processes and procedures to make licensure more efficient, equitable and defensible — without compromising public protection.

Why Rethink Regulation?

Licensure reform is gaining bipartisan support as policymakers seek to simplify regulations, increase economic opportunity and remove barriers to workforce entry. At the same time, technology is driving expectations for faster, more efficient licensure processes, and a focus on equity and accessibility is reshaping professional standards. CLARB is responding by ensuring licensure remains:

  • Defensible – Directly tied to public protection.
  • Consistent – Applied fairly across jurisdictions.
  • Accessible – Attainable by all qualified candidates.

Through research, collaboration and policy updates, we are reducing complexity, improving mobility and ensuring regulatory boards maintain strong, effective oversight.

Key areas of focus

A uniform licensure standard

The CLARB Uniform Standard creates a consistent, defensible framework for evaluating candidates across jurisdictions. It aligns licensure requirements in the U.S., Canada, Puerto Rico and Northern Mariana Islands, expands alternative education pathways, and strengthens experience qualifications—all while remaining flexible for future updates.

A common application for licensure

The CLARB Record serves as a common application for licensure that includes verified history of education, experience, exam results and licensure status. It eliminates redundant paperwork, speeds up board reviews and improves licensure mobility.

Reducing licensure delays

Unnecessary delays create barriers for qualified candidates. CLARB is helping member boards modernize administrative procedures, leverage technology and streamline application reviews to ensure efficient licensure decisions.

Two people meeting in a lobby seated in orange chairs.

The impact of Rethinking Regulation

By modernizing regulation, CLARB is making licensure fair, consistent and accessible—without compromising public safety. The Uniform Standard, CLARB Record and procedural improvements are already reducing complexity and improving mobility. CLARB will continue working with regulatory boards, policymakers and industry leaders to ensure a licensure model that meets today’s needs.

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