Virginia Administrative Code Title 18 - PROFESSIONAL AND OCCUPATIONAL LICENSING
Overview
VAC Title 18 establishes the regulations and standards for professional and occupational licensing in Virginia. This title provides the legal framework for ensuring that individuals and businesses in regulated professions meet minimum qualifications, competency standards, and ethical requirements to protect the public.
The Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR) or other relevant boards administers these rules for different professions.
Key Areas Covered in Title 18
1. General Provisions
Defines the scope and purpose of professional and occupational regulation in Virginia.
Explains the authority of the DPOR and individual licensing boards.
Sets out definitions for terms like “license,” “renewal,” “licensee,” and “board.”
Provides general rules about fees, applications, renewals, and disciplinary actions.
2. Licensing Requirements
Specifies eligibility criteria for licenses in various professions, including education, experience, examinations, and background checks.
Outlines the application process and documentation needed.
Includes reciprocity or endorsement rules for professionals licensed in other states.
3. Standards of Practice and Ethics
Establishes professional conduct rules, including ethical behavior and consumer protection.
Details prohibited acts, such as fraud, misrepresentation, negligence, or practicing without a license.
May include continuing education requirements to maintain licensure.
4. Regulatory Boards and Commissions
Describes the composition, powers, and duties of specific boards for professions like:
Architects
Engineers
Cosmetologists and Barbers
Real Estate Professionals
Health Practitioners (e.g., physical therapists, nurses)
Boards are responsible for issuing licenses, adopting regulations, and enforcing compliance.
5. Inspections, Enforcement, and Disciplinary Actions
Rules for inspections, audits, and investigations of licensees.
Procedures for complaints, hearings, and sanctions, including fines, suspension, or revocation of licenses.
Rules about appeals and administrative hearings for licensees facing disciplinary action.
6. Fees and Financial Regulations
Establishes fee schedules for:
Initial licensing
Renewal
Late applications
Examinations
Provides guidelines for managing funds collected by boards and commissions.
7. Specific Occupations and Professions
Each licensed profession may have chapters or sections detailing:
Specialized requirements
Scope of practice
Record-keeping obligations
Continuing education requirements
Ensures each profession is regulated according to its unique risks and standards.
Purpose of VAC Title 18
Protect the public by ensuring competent and ethical professionals.
Maintain uniform standards across occupations in Virginia.
Provide procedures for enforcement, complaints, and discipline.
Promote consumer confidence in licensed professionals.
Practical Impact
Professionals: Must meet licensing requirements, follow ethical standards, and renew licenses on time.
Consumers/Public: Gain assurance that services are provided by qualified individuals and can report misconduct.
Regulatory Boards: Have clear authority to govern professions, enforce compliance, and protect public welfare.
✅ In short: VAC Title 18 is the legal backbone for licensing and regulating professions and occupations in Virginia. It ensures public safety, standardizes professional practices, and empowers boards to enforce rules fairly.
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