By: Caitlin A. Koppenhaver
“Cleared to Care” Campaign Helps You Stay Compliant and Licensed
If you’re a licensed health care provider in Florida, there’s a big change coming your way. Florida’s House Bill 975 (HB 975), which became law effective July 1st, 2025 requires most licensed providers to complete a background screening when applying for or renewing their individual licensure. Staying compliant with the new law is mandatory to maintain licensure. To help licensed providers comply and prepare, the state has launched a “Cleared to Care” campaign.
Who Needs to Do This?
Most licensed health care professionals in Florida will be affected, including doctors, nurses, therapists, and more. However, there are a few exemptions. Emergency medical technicians, paramedics, pharmacy interns, registered pharmacy technicians, and radiologic technicians are exempt unless applying through the military active-duty spouse licensure pathway. Fingerprint retention requirements do not apply to these professions.
What You Need to Know
This isn’t just a routine update. If you delay the screening process, your license application or renewal could be delayed or expired. Because fingerprinting and processing may take time, especially since this has become a requirement for most licensed healthcare professions, it’s important to complete this step as soon as possible.
For License Renewals
You can start renewing 90 days before your license expires. It’s best to get your fingerprinting completed as soon as possible to avoid delays in obtaining or renewing your Florida license.
For New Applicants
You must complete the background screening as part of your application. Don’t wait until the last minute. There are also resources for out-of-state applicants to complete this step.
Act Now, Don’t Risk Losing Your License
With thousands of practitioners needing to comply, waiting until the last minute is risky. Start your background screening early to avoid delays or interruptions in your ability to practice.
Additional Resources:
Florida’s Cleared to Care Campaign: 205.03.25-ClearedtoCare-Poster.pdf
Background Screening Steps and FAQ: Initiate a Screening – FL HealthSource • Health Care Resources for Consumers & Providers
