What is a characteristic of a practice act?

A practice act is a legal framework that governs a particular profession, establishing the requirements for practicing within that field. The characteristic that highlights a practice act is that it typically mandates certification and registration by the state. This ensures that professionals meet established standards of education, training, and ethical practice before being allowed to perform their work.

When a practice act stipulates that certification and registration are required, it serves to protect the public by ensuring that practitioners are qualified and held accountable for their professional conduct. Furthermore, this legal requirement helps to regulate the industry, providing a structured pathway for individuals seeking to enter the profession, while also upholding the profession's credibility.

In contrast, the other options signify different levels of regulation that do not align with the core function of a practice act. Advisory registration, optional certifications, or no requirements tend to indicate a more lax regulatory environment that does not provide the same level of public protection or professional accountability.