The chiropractic quality assurance commission (CQAC) conducts background checks on applicants to assure safe patient care. Completion of a national criminal background check may require additional time. The CQAC may issue a temporary practice permit when the applicant has met all other licensure requirements, except the national criminal background check requirement. The applicant must not be subject to denial of a license or issuance of a conditional license under this chapter.

(1) A temporary practice permit may be issued to an applicant who:

(a) Holds an unrestricted, active chiropractic license in another state that has substantially equivalent licensing standards to those in Washington state;

(b) Is not subject to denial of a license or issuance of a conditional or restricted license; and

(c) Does not have a criminal record in Washington.

(2) A temporary practice permit grants the individual the full chiropractic scope of practice.

(3) A temporary practice permit will not be renewed, reissued, or extended. A temporary practice permit expires when any one of the following occurs:

(a) The license is granted;

(b) A notice of decision on application is mailed to the applicant, unless the notice of decision on application specifically extends the duration of the temporary practice permit; or

(c) One hundred eighty days after the temporary practice permit is issued.

(4) To receive a temporary practice permit, the applicant must:

(a) Submit the necessary application, fee(s), and documentation for the license.

(b) Meet all requirements and qualifications for the license, except the results from a fingerprint-based national background check, if required.

(c) Provide verification of having an active unrestricted chiropractic license from another state that has substantially equivalent licensing standards to those in Washington state.

(d) Submit the fingerprint card and a written request for a temporary practice permit when the department notifies the applicant the national background check is required.