OCCUPATIONAL LICENSING AND CRIMINAL RECORDS
If you are struggling to obtain an occupational license because of your criminal record, Georgia Justice Project may be able to help.
1 in 7 jobs require an occupational license. Because 40% of adult Georgians have a criminal record, they may be barred from these jobs. Every licensing applicant with a criminal record risks denial because of their record, even if it is old, pardoned or expunged.
Preparing to Apply for an Occupational License with a Criminal Record
If you are eligible, there are a few steps that you should take before applying:
- Prepare before you start your training or education for the job requiring a license.
- See if you can get a preliminary decision from the licensing board.
- Gather your documents months before you apply.
- Fill out the application honestly.
- Explain your record to the licensing board.
- Be ready to appeal if it is denied.
Need additional help?
If you are unsure about your situation or need help with applying for your occupational license, please email Intake@GJP.org or call 404.827.0027 ext. 238. If you would like more information about applying for an occupational license with a criminal record, how to explain your record to an occupational licensing board, or working in a child care or elder care facility, go to the occupational licensing section of our resources page.