The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 9 letter word LICENSING
L
I
C
E
N
S
I
N
G
More clues leading to the result LICENSING
Buddy explains!

The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does LICENSING mean?
LICENSING verb- To give a formal (usually written) authorization.
- Authorize officially.
- A giving of license to do something; sanction.