Must I report criminal charges to a PA licensing board?

Do I Have to Report ARD or Criminal Charges to My Professional Licensing Board in Pennsylvania?

Yes—most likely.
As of April 15, 2018, Pennsylvania law requires professionals licensed through the Bureau of Professional and Occupational Affairs (BPOA) to report certain criminal case outcomes to their licensing board. This includes:

The requirement was established under Public Law P.L. 14, No. 6, and applies to both felony and misdemeanor charges.

When Do I Need to Report?

The key deadline is within 30 days of disposition—not from the date of arrest or when charges were filed. The “disposition” refers to the court’s official resolution of the case, such as the ARD placement date, plea date, or sentencing date.

Failing to report within this window could result in disciplinary action or additional penalties from your professional licensing board.

Does Reporting Mean My License Will Be Suspended?

Not necessarily.
Reporting a criminal resolution does not automatically result in a license suspension. However, the nature of the offense, your professional role, and the final outcome of the case can influence the board’s disciplinary decision.

This is why it’s critical to have experienced legal representation during your criminal case—a favorable resolution may help protect your professional standing and minimize licensing consequences.

Which Professions Are Affected?

Most licensed professions in Pennsylvania fall under this mandatory reporting requirement. This includes, but is not limited to:

If you’re unsure whether your occupation is regulated by the Bureau of Professional and Occupational Affairs, you can view the full list of licensing boards here.