Can You Get a Professional License with a Criminal Record? (2026 Guide)

A criminal record does not automatically disqualify you from obtaining a professional license. Licensing boards across the country evaluate applicants with criminal histories on a case-by-case basis, weighing factors like the nature of the offense, how much time has passed, and evidence of rehabilitation. However, background check requirements vary significantly by profession and state.

This guide provides a cross-profession overview of background check requirements based on our data covering 27 licensed professions. Use it to understand how your profession compares and to find profession-specific guidance.

How Licensing Boards Evaluate Criminal Records

While each state and profession has its own rules, most licensing boards consider the following factors when reviewing an applicant with a criminal record:

• Nature and severity of the offense — Boards typically distinguish between misdemeanors and felonies, and between violent and non-violent offenses.
• Relationship to the profession — An offense directly related to the duties of the profession (e.g., theft for a profession involving financial responsibility) may receive closer scrutiny.
• Time elapsed since the offense — Most boards view older offenses more favorably, especially when accompanied by a clean record since.
• Evidence of rehabilitation — Completion of treatment programs, community service, steady employment, and character references can all work in your favor.
• Number of offenses — A single offense is generally viewed differently than a pattern of criminal behavior.

Background Check Requirements by Profession

The table below shows how many states require a criminal background check for each profession we track. A higher percentage does not mean the profession is harder to enter with a criminal record — it simply means more states include a background check as part of the application process.

Professions With High Background Check Rates (75%+ of States)

These professions have background check requirements in the majority of states. This is common in healthcare, public safety, and professions involving vulnerable populations. A background check requirement does not mean a criminal record will automatically disqualify you.

• CNA — 50 of 51 states (98%)
• Dentist — 51 of 51 states (100%)
• EMT — 50 of 51 states (98%)
• Esthetician — 43 of 51 states (84%)
• Insurance Agent — 51 of 51 states (100%)
• LPN — 51 of 51 states (100%)
• Massage Therapist — 47 of 51 states (92%)
• Pharmacist — 51 of 51 states (100%)
• Pharmacy Technician — 49 of 51 states (96%)
• Physical Therapist — 51 of 51 states (100%)
• Plumber — 45 of 51 states (88%)
• Real Estate Appraiser — 51 of 51 states (100%)
• Registered Nurse — 49 of 51 states (96%)

Professions With Moderate Background Check Rates (40–74% of States)

These professions require background checks in a significant number of states, though not universally.

• General Contractor — 23 of 51 states (45%)
• HVAC Technician — 22 of 51 states (43%)
• Security Guard — 37 of 51 states (73%)

Professions With Lower Background Check Rates (Under 40% of States)

These professions have background check requirements in fewer states, often because the work involves lower direct public safety risk or because licensing is handled at a local rather than state level.

• Barber — 14 of 51 states (27%)
• Boiler Operator — 0 of 51 states (0%)
• Childcare — 0 of 51 states (0%)
• Cosmetologist — 11 of 51 states (22%)
• Electrician — 14 of 51 states (27%)
• Home Inspector — 14 of 51 states (27%)
• Locksmith — 0 of 51 states (0%)
• Notary — 6 of 51 states (12%)
• Private Investigator — 0 of 51 states (0%)
• Process Server — 8 of 51 states (16%)
• Tow Truck Operator — 15 of 51 states (29%)

Steps to Improve Your Chances

If you have a criminal record and are pursuing a professional license, the following steps may help strengthen your application:

1. Obtain your criminal record — Request a copy of your record so you know exactly what the licensing board will see. Errors on background checks are more common than you might expect, and correcting them before you apply can prevent delays.
2. Research your state’s board policy — Many state boards publish guidelines on how they evaluate criminal records. Look for lists of disqualifying offenses, waiting periods, and any “fair chance” policies.
3. Consider a pre-application review — Some states offer a preliminary review process that lets you find out whether your record might affect your eligibility before you invest in education and training.
4. Gather rehabilitation evidence — Collect documentation of completed treatment programs, community service, steady employment, educational achievements, and character references.
5. Consult an attorney — A lawyer experienced in occupational licensing can review your specific situation, help you understand your rights, and advise on the best approach for your application.

Learn More

For profession-specific guidance on criminal records and licensing, see our detailed guides:

• Can You Get a CNA License With a Criminal Record?
• Can You Get a Security Guard License With a Criminal Record?
• Can You Get a Cosmetology License With a Criminal Record?
• Can You Get a Barber License With a Criminal Record?
• Can You Get an Electrician License With a Criminal Record?
• Can You Get a Plumber License With a Criminal Record?
• Can You Get an EMT License With a Criminal Record?
• Can You Get an HVAC License With a Criminal Record?

You can also browse our full blog for state-specific licensing guides and how-to articles for each profession.