What occurs if the annual renewal fee is not paid by the deadline?

When the annual renewal fee is not paid by the deadline, the outcome is that it results in a lapsed certificate. This means that the individual's certification is no longer valid until the fee is paid and the certification is reinstated. A lapsed certificate signifies that the individual is not authorized to perform duties that require that certification, which can have serious implications for their employment and operational responsibilities.

Timely payment of renewal fees is crucial to maintain the active status of the certification, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and maintaining professional credentials. The process for reinstating a lapsed certificate often requires specific steps, which may include payment of the owed fees and possibly fulfilling additional requirements to ensure that the individual remains qualified for their role.