What authority does the DBPR have in relation to investigations?

The Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) is granted the authority to administer oaths and take depositions as part of its investigative powers. This is essential for conducting thorough investigations into complaints or violations of real estate regulations. Administering oaths ensures that the information provided during these investigations is taken seriously and is legally binding, allowing the DBPR to gather accurate and truthful evidence.

This authority facilitates the process of collecting testimonies and statements from involved parties, which is critical for ensuring that investigations are comprehensive and fair. The ability to take depositions means that the DBPR can conduct examinations under oath, helping to clarify facts and hold individuals accountable for their statements as part of the regulatory process.

The other options, while relating to the functioning of the DBPR, do not accurately capture its investigatory authority. For instance, settling disputes typically falls under the jurisdiction of mediation processes rather than direct administrative actions. Issuing licenses immediately is not a power designated to them, as it involves reviews and compliance assessments. Similarly, while overseeing training programs is a part of the DBPR's broader role, it does not directly relate to their investigative functions. Therefore, the authority to administer oaths and take depositions stands out as a critical facet of the