Director's Welcome

Welcome to the web site for the Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR).

We are a Commerce and Trade agency contributing to the Commonwealth's economic vitality by promoting job creation and protecting the public. We promote job creation by helping qualified people to start businesses and work in their chosen fields. We protect the public by investigating complaints and ensuring regulated professions are compliant with state law and regulations. Our core objectives are to promote a positive business climate, ensure a competent workforce, and provide exceptional customer service.

DPOR regulates only those professions and occupations determined by the General Assembly. A list of the more than 30 occupational and professional fields we regulate through 19 boards can be found on the Licensing & Regulation (Boards) link to the left of this page. In keeping with our mission and values, we strive to issue required professional credentials in the least intrusive, least burdensome, and most efficient way.

Whether you are an applicant exploring a regulated profession, a licensee of one of our regulatory boards, or a consumer interested in what to look for when hiring, we want to provide the information you need. Our knowledgeable employees are available by phone or email and we work to give you exceptional customer service.

Thank you for visiting the DPOR web site. We are proud to serve you as work together to build a Commonwealth of Opportunity for all Virginians.

Sincerely,

Gordon Dixon
Director