Who is eligible to apply for licensure by endorsement?

The eligibility to apply for licensure by endorsement in Georgia is specifically designed for individuals who hold a current license in another state. This provision allows licensed professionals to transfer their credentials from one jurisdiction to another, streamlining the process for those who have already demonstrated competence and met the necessary qualifications in a different state.

The rationale behind this is to recognize the professional qualifications and experiences of those who have already been licensed elsewhere, thereby facilitating mobility among licensed practitioners. By ensuring that candidates have a current and valid license, the state maintains standards of practice and ensures that applicants have been evaluated by a licensing board similar to Georgia's.

In contrast, the other options, such as only Georgia residents or recent graduates of psychology programs, do not accurately reflect the criteria for licensure by endorsement. Residents of Georgia may pursue licensure through different pathways, and recent graduates typically must complete the standard licensure requirements rather than applying by endorsement. Similarly, holding federal credentials alone does not equate to holding a state license, which is essential for endorsement eligibility. This focus on current state licensure establishes the necessary qualifications that align with Georgia's standards for professional practice in psychology.