Annual Educational Conference Frequently Asked Questions

General Conference Information

What is the CLEAR Annual Educational Conference?
The CLEAR Annual Educational Conference (AEC) is the premier professional development event for regulators and regulatory stakeholders. It brings together regulatory leaders, board members, investigators, administrators, policymakers, and researchers from around the world to explore emerging issues in professional regulation and share leading practices that strengthen public protection.

When and where is the 2026 conference taking place?
The 2026 Annual Educational Conference will take place September 14–17, 2026 in Portland, Oregon (USA). Registration for the 2026 conference is in-person only.

Who should attend the conference?
The conference is designed for professionals working in or alongside regulatory bodies, including:
    Executive Directors / Registrars
    Licensing and registration staff
    Investigators and enforcement personnel
    Board members and public members
    Credentialing and examination professionals
    Policy analysts and legal counsel
    Regulatory researchers and consultants

Is this conference only for U.S. regulators?
No. CLEAR’s conference welcomes participants from around the world and regularly includes speakers and attendees from Canada, the United States, Europe, Australia, New Zealand, the Middle East, and other regions. The conference emphasizes cross-jurisdictional learning and international collaboration.

Program & Sessions

How is the conference program organized?
Sessions are organized into four main tracks:
    Regulatory Administration and Governance 
    Compliance, Discipline, and Enforcement
    Entry to Practice Standards and Continuing Competence
    Testing and Examinations

What topics will be covered in this year’s program?
Sessions address key issues facing regulators today, including:
     Regulatory governance and board modernization
     Compliance, discipline, and enforcement practices
     Workforce mobility and pathways to licensure
     Credentialing, examinations, and competency assessment
     Artificial intelligence and emerging technologies
     Public trust, transparency, and stakeholder engagement
     Regulatory innovation and modernization

Are sessions designed for specific experience levels?
Yes. Sessions are typically identified as introductory, intermediate, or advanced, allowing attendees to select content that best matches their experience and professional responsibilities.

Will there be keynote or plenary presentations?
Yes. The conference features three plenary sessions (one each day of conference programming) that bring all attendees together to explore major themes affecting the future of professional regulation.

Are there breakout or interactive sessions?
Yes. In addition to the three plenary sessions, the conference agenda includes ten breakout blocks as well as a dedicated time for poster sessions. All four conference tracks are featured in each breakout block, giving attendees additional opportunities to engage with the content most relevant to their work. Many breakout sessions include interactive formats such as live audience polling, facilitated discussions, and audience Q&A. Breakout formats are designed to encourage dialogue and shared best practices among regulators.

Networking & Community

What networking opportunities are available?
The conference includes multiple opportunities to connect with peers from across jurisdictions and professions, including: 
    Networking reception and meals
    Informal discussion sessions
    Pre-conference workshops
    Collaborative session formats
    Optional social activities
    Many attendees find these peer exchanges to be one of the most valuable aspects of the conference.

Why attend the CLEAR conference instead of a profession-specific conference?
CLEAR’s conference provides a cross-profession regulatory perspective, allowing participants to learn from approaches used in other sectors and jurisdictions. This broader view often sparks innovative ideas that can be adapted to a wide range of regulatory contexts.

Registration

When will registration open?
[Answer to be provided]

How much does registration cost?
[Answer to be provided]

Are there discounted rates available?
[Examples to confirm]

Early-bird registration

CLEAR member rates

What is included in the conference registration fee?
[To confirm but typically includes]

Access to all conference sessions

Conference materials

Networking events/receptions

Refreshments and select meals

Additional Conference Offerings

Will there be pre-conference workshops?
Yes. Pre-conference workshops will take place on Monday, September 14, prior to the main conference, to offer attendees a deeper exploration of specific regulatory topics. Separate registration is required.

Are there any evening activities during the conference?
Yes. In addition to the Welcome Reception (Monday, September 14), CLEAR organizes evening social activities that allow you to explore our host city with your fellow attendees. Separate registration is required.

Travel & Accommodations

Where will the conference be held?
[Venue name and address]

Is there a conference hotel?
Yes. CLEAR has arranged a room block at the conference hotel for attendees.

How can I reserve a hotel room at the conference rate?
[Booking link and deadline to be added]

Are there travel recommendations for getting to Portland?
[To add airport and transportation guidance]

Do international attendees need a visa to attend?
International attendees may require a visa to enter the United States depending on their nationality. Attendees should consult their local embassy or consulate for the most current visa requirements.

Can CLEAR provide a visa support letter?
[Answer to be provided]

Virtual Participation

Will there be a virtual attendance option?
[Answer to be provided]

Will sessions be recorded and available after the conference?
[Answer to be provided]

Continuing Education

Will continuing education credits be offered?
[Answer to be provided]

Will attendees receive a certificate of participation?
[Answer to be provided]

Speakers & Proposals

How were session proposals selected?
Sessions are selected through a peer-reviewed process conducted by CLEAR’s Annual Conference Program Committee, which evaluates proposals based on relevance, innovation, practical value, and alignment with conference themes.

Can I access presentation materials after the conference?
[Answer to be provided]

Accessibility & Inclusion

Is the conference accessible to individuals with disabilities?
CLEAR is committed to creating an inclusive and accessible conference environment.

How can I request accommodations?
[Answer to be provided]

Additional Questions

Who should I contact if I have questions about the conference?
[Contact email]