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You will find that many top-paying professions in the United States are licensed at the state level. A key to understanding
state licensing is to study how a particular state government is structured. Every state has
its own unique government structure, although many states conform to national standards. One of the
first places to check for state licensing is the state's official website, which should provide
links or at least answers as to where to find specific state licenses.
Many state licenses are granted by agencies, commissions or boards within state departments.
For example, in California various licenses can be found through the Department of Consumer Affairs,
which consists of several boards such as the Dental Board, Bureau of Barbering and Cosmetology
and the Board of Professional Engineers. But there are other departments that also issue licenses.
A fishing license may be issued by the Department of Fish and Game in one state and the Department
of Natural Resources in another state.
Don't let the complexity of the multiple state governments confuse or discourage you. Once you understand
how your state government is set up and learn more about the industry you are pursuing, you will
have no problem finding the license you are looking for. In many cases a state license is only
valid in the state where it is issued, but there are some professions in which interstate
practice is acceptable with one state license.
