What is the key characteristic of a provisional license?

A provisional license serves as a temporary licensing option for individuals who have completed their educational requirements but may need to fulfill additional criteria before being granted a full, unrestricted license to practice. This can include completing specific supervised training hours, passing exams, or meeting other professional requirements.

The provisional status indicates that the licensee is still in the process of completing the necessary steps to achieve full licensure. This temporary designation is essential for ensuring that individuals have the opportunity to gain practical experience and oversight while working towards meeting the complete qualifications needed for independent practice.

In contrast, full independent practice is not permitted under a provisional license; hence, it does not grant the same level of autonomy as a fully issued license would. Provisional licenses are typically time-limited and not granted indefinitely, as they are contingent upon meeting further requirements. Additionally, a provisional license does require some form of supervised training, ensuring that the licensee is supported as they transition into their professional role.