Applicability; renewals; reinstatements

5. a. Notwithstanding any other act or regulation to the contrary, the provisions of this section shall apply to every holder of a professional or occupational license or certificate of registration or certification issued or renewed by a board specified in section 2 of P.L.1978, c.73 (C.45:1-15), who seeks renewal of that license or certificate. b. Every holder of a professional or occupational license or certificate of registration or certification, issued or renewed by a board specified in section 2 of P.L.1978, c.73 (C.45:1-15), who seeks renewal shall submit a renewal application and pay a renewal fee prior to the date of expiration of the license or certificate of registration or certification. If the holder does not renew the license or certificate prior to its expiration date, the holder may renew it within 30 days of its expiration date by submitting a renewal application and paying a renewal fee and a late fee. During the 30-day period, the license shall be valid and the licensee shall not be deemed practicing without a license. Any professional or occupational license or certificate of registration or certification not renewed within 30 days of its expiration date shall be suspended without a hearing. c. Any individual who continues to practice after the 30 days following the expiration date of that individual's license or certificate of registration or certification shall be deemed to be engaged in unlicensed practice of the regulated profession or occupation, even if no notice of suspension has been provided to the individual. d. A professional or occupational license or certificate of registration or certification suspended pursuant to this section may be reinstated as provided in section 2 of P.L.2013, c.182 (C.45:1-7.4). e. A board specified in section 2 of P.L.1978, c.73 (C.45:1-15) shall send a notice of renewal to each of its holders of a professional or occupational license or certificate of registration or certification, as applicable, at least 60 days prior to the expiration of the license or certificate. The notice of renewal shall explain inactive renewal and advise the licensee of the option to renew as inactive. If the notice to renew is not sent at least 60 days prior to the expiration date, no monetary penalties or fines shall apply to the holder for failure to renew provided that the license is renewed within 60 days from the date the notice is sent. f. A renewal applicant electing to renew as inactive shall not engage in professional or occupational practice within the State or hold himself out as eligible to engage in professional or occupational practice within the State.