As a professional in Pennsylvania, you have worked hard to earn and maintain your license. Yet, a slight mistake or error may put your professional career in jeopardy and could lead to you losing your license.

The professional licensing system through the Pennsylvania Department of State is designed to protect industries from fraudulent activity. You may be able to find inconsistencies or administrative mistakes that could help you keep your license and professional standing in the community.

Violations that could jeopardize your license

In Pennsylvania, professionals across a wide-range of industries, including health care, accounting, therapy, social work, real estate, pharmacy, dental, nursing homes, veterinarians and architecture. Your license may be at risk if you engage in any of the following activities:

• Medical malpractice
• Theft or fraud
• Practicing or driving under the influence of a controlled substance or alcohol
• Embezzlement
• Domestic abuse
• Failing to disclose disciplinary actions from other states

When a license is at risk, the professional board will perform a license examination, review and investigate any issues with the license.

Understand possible consequences

There are several potential consequences if the board finds a violation has taken place. You may have your license suspended or revoked. Furthermore, you may have a fine imposed depending on the severity of the situation. Other disciplinary actions may be issued according to the details surrounding the matter at hand. In some cases, this includes criminal convictions.

Some licensed industries have disciplinary boards that oversee violations and determine the best course of action. The board will evaluate the severity of the violation and take into account other factors, such as whether other violations occurred and the tenure of the professional before making their final decision.