Registered Dental Hygienist in Alternative Practice (RDHAP) Law and Ethics Practice Exam

What happens if a license is renewed after its expiration?

1. It remains valid until the next scheduled renewal

2. It requires the payment of a delinquency fee

3. It cannot be renewed

4. It is automatically voided

The correct answer is: It requires the payment of a delinquency fee

When a license is renewed after its expiration, it typically requires the payment of a delinquency fee. This is a common practice to encourage timely renewals and penalize those who do not adhere to the renewal schedule. Delinquency fees serve as a deterrent against late renewals and help manage the administrative costs associated with processing late applications. Therefore, individuals who allow their licenses to lapse but still wish to maintain their professional credentials must be prepared to pay this additional fee to reactivate their license. Other options do not accurately reflect standard licensing practices. For instance, while some licenses may remain valid for a short grace period after expiration, this generally does not apply once the renewal has missed its deadline. Moreover, not all licenses become void or non-renewable simply because the renewal is late; many jurisdictions allow for options like reinstatement, given that fees and possible continuing education requirements are met. Thus, the requirement of a delinquency fee provides a pathway for individuals to regain their professional status despite a lapse in licensure.