What type of license can a licensing authority issue to a qualified applicant who has a prior conviction, according to Texas Occupation Code CH. 53.0211(c)?

A provisional license is the appropriate type of license that a licensing authority can issue to a qualified applicant with a prior conviction, according to Texas Occupation Code CH. 53.0211(c). This provision allows individuals with a criminal history to participate in the licensing process but under certain restrictions or conditional terms.

The rationale behind issuing a provisional license is to give applicants a chance to demonstrate their capability to comply with the law and to successfully engage in their professional duties while noting that their past conduct is considered but does not automatically disqualify them. This approach serves both public safety interests and helps reintegrate individuals into the workforce after they have served their time and demonstrated rehabilitation.

In contrast, a standard license is typically reserved for individuals without any prior convictions, while a probationary license generally implies a temporary adherence to specific conditions rather than being a direct offer of license based solely on a past conviction. An unrestricted license, on the other hand, would be granted without any limitations or notice of prior offenses, which is not applicable in the case of an applicant with a criminal history.