Astrology is not governed by any governmental or legislative body. While this produces benefits for both the astrologer and the client, it does create an area of concern by making it difficult for people to (know how to) select an astrologer; this provides an opportunity for those who should not be involved in the craft to profit from the public's ignorance.

The basis for selecting an astrologer however, is the same as for selecting any practitioner and the same criteria and level of discernment should be applied. At the outset it is important to enquire after the discipline of astrology practiced; the area of astrology is vast and there are numerous options available to the public. It is at this initial stage of selection that common sense should prevail.

1. It is imperative that those seeking an astrologer contact only practitioners who are easily contactable: do not contact astrologers via the internet who don’t have traceable contact details; an email address is insufficient.

2. In every craft, especially those with any esoteric/spiritual/alternative leaning, you will encounter charlatans; astrology is certainly no exception.

3. Enquire after the astrologer’s qualifications and duration of study, as well as the number of years in practice.

4. There are many astrologers who claim to practice professionally and to have established astrological practices when they are not qualified: to become proficient in the craft of astrology takes years, not months.

5. There are far too many self-taught astrologers: this corrupts the essence and application of the craft as the derivation of knowledge is completely subjective; clients require objectivity.

6. It is the public's responsibility to apply discernment: anyone is able to own and maintain a web site: filling it with the work of others and copying their ideas does not an astrologer make; if need be, ask for contactable references.

7. It is also the responsibility of the public to be aware of the average fees charged by astrologers.

8. While astrology is not governed by any body or legislation, there is an unwritten market (and skills) related norm; it is for this reason that the public should be even more discerning when contacting an astrologer.

9. Those who hold no certifiable qualifications, charging similar fees to those who do, should cause the public to smell an astrological rat; similarly anyone charging fees that clearly exceed the average fees charged by qualified and credible astrologers, is as suspicious.

10. Astrologers, just like anyone else, will base their fees on their level of qualifications and the number of years they have been practicing.

11. Do note that no qualified, professional astrologer will offer their services for free; an astrology practice is a business just like any other and should be conducted as such.