Cleared to Care: Understanding Florida’s New Background Check Requirements for Licensure

“Cleared to Care” Campaign Launches to Inform Health Care Practitioners

Florida has introduced a significant update to its healthcare licensure process with the passage of HB 975, a new law that expands and standardizes background screening for licensed health care practitioners. Starting July 1, 2025, all healthcare professionals in Florida will be required to complete a Level 2 background screening for initial licensure and license renewals.

The Florida Department of Health has launched the “Cleared to Care” campaign to ensure that practitioners are informed and prepared for this critical change.

🕒 Act Now – Know Your Timeline

Failure to complete your background screening will result in your license being denied or not renewed. Because this process involves multiple steps, such as fingerprinting, identity verification, and state/federal clearance, it’s essential to plan ahead:

• Initial Licensure: A Level 2 background check is now a required part of the application process.
• License Renewal: Renewal opens 90 days before your license expires. Practitioners are encouraged to complete screening early to avoid delays or interruptions in their ability to practice.

🔍 Why HB 975 Was Implemented

🛡️ 1. Closing Screening Gaps

Previously, only specific professions, such as physicians, nurses, and physician assistants—underwent fingerprint-based Level 2 background checks.

HB 975 now includes a broader range of health care providers, such as:

• Dentists
• Optometrists
• Pharmacists
• Mental Health Counselors
• Dietitians
• Occupational/Physical Therapists
• Audiologists and more (FL Senate Bill Analysis).

🛡️ 2. Protecting the Public

The expansion of screening standards is designed to:

• Protect vulnerable populations
• Increase public trust in the safety and integrity of Florida’s healthcare system (Florida Health Source).

🛡️ 3. Integrating the Clearinghouse

All screening results will be submitted to Florida’s Care Provider Background Screening Clearinghouse, a centralized system that supports:

• Ongoing monitoring (Rap Back)
• Efficient license management across agencies

🛡️ 4. Ensuring Uniform Compliance

Whether you’re applying for a new license or renewing an existing one, completing a Level 2 background check is now mandatory. No practitioner will be exempt based on previous screenings.

✅ What This Means for You

If you're a healthcare provider in Florida, HB 975 directly impacts your licensure process. Start preparing now by scheduling your fingerprinting and reviewing your renewal timeline.

Sources:

• Florida Health Source – HB 975 Background Screening Info
• Florida Senate – Bill Summary and Analysis
• Howell, Buchan & Strong – Legal Overview