Licensing isn't the solution here. Software changes too quickly, while institutionalized tests and textbooks, and certifications move incredibly slowly. Treatin

Licensing isn't the solution here. Software changes too quickly, while institutionalized tests and textbooks, and certifications move incredibly slowly. Treating this industry the same as others will hopelessly slow down the already glacial pace of government software, while innovation will continue outside the system. Software is a different realm, as other commenters point out. When faced with a problem in the software world, what's the solution? More software! The accrediting bodies that regulators might want to form should focus on free test suites and tools for gauging security. Static code analyzers, auto penetration testers, something along these lines. Regulate the quality of the software, not the software developers. It's easier to objectively test.