What happens to a license if it is not renewed by Dec 31 of the odd-numbered year?

If a cosmetology license is not renewed by December 31 of an odd-numbered year, it becomes inactive. This means that the licensee can no longer legally practice cosmetology until they take the necessary steps to reactivate their license, which often involves paying a reinstatement fee or fulfilling continuing education requirements. The inactive status serves as a safeguard to ensure that practitioners maintain up-to-date knowledge and skills relevant to the industry, thereby protecting public health and safety.

In this case, the distinction between the inactive status and other potential outcomes, such as automatic renewal or revocation, highlights the structured nature of professional licensing. Remaining on inactive status allows for the possibility of reactivation, as opposed to being permanently revoked, which would require a more complicated process to address and rectify.