Check the licensing authority’s official website (search by business or professional license number)
Look for a “License Status” or “Verify License” tool on the authority’s site
Search your state/province/territory’s licensing database using the licensee name or license number
Review the license’s status field for terms like “Suspended,” “Inactive,” “Revoked,” or “Not in Good Standing”
Check for any “disciplinary actions” or “enforcement actions” listings tied to the license number
Verify the license expiration date and confirm whether it is currently active versus expired
Contact the licensing authority using the phone number or email listed on the official website
Request a written status confirmation from the licensing authority (if needed)
If applicable, check any public verification portals maintained by the regulator or state board
If the license is for a professional service (e.g., medical, legal, contractor), check the specific board’s database rather than a general directory
For contractors, also check the state’s contractor licensing board and any bond/permit status pages if separate from the license status
Check for notices of suspension or administrative orders posted on the authority’s website or in public records