What type of licenses does the Nuclear Regulatory Commission issue?

The Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) is responsible for regulating the nation's civilian use of nuclear materials and ensuring safety in nuclear facilities. One of the primary types of licenses the NRC issues is known as specific licenses. These licenses are granted for specific activities such as the possession, use, and transfer of nuclear materials.

Specific licenses entail detailed conditions and guidelines tailored to the particular circumstances of the applicant, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards aimed at protecting public health and safety. This level of specificity helps the NRC enforce regulations effectively and monitor activities that might pose risks associated with nuclear materials.

General licenses, on the other hand, are typically used for activities that pose less risk and may not require the same level of oversight as specific licenses. Temporary and provisional licenses are less commonly referenced in the context of the NRC's framework, as the NRC focuses on the stability and detailed compliance provided by specific licensing.