What must an applicant do if their license has been suspended for more than 5 years?

When a dental hygiene license has been suspended for more than five years, the applicant must reapply for a license. This process is essential because a significant amount of time has passed since the license was valid, indicating that the individual may have lost touch with current practices, regulations, and standards within the profession. Reapplying typically involves demonstrating that they are still qualified to practice, which may include providing evidence of continuing education and any other requirements set by the licensing board.

In many jurisdictions, including New Jersey, the reapplication process ensures that the applicant meets the current standards of practice and is fit to resume professional duties. This step helps protect public safety and maintains the integrity of the profession, as those who have been away from practice for an extended period may need to update their skills and knowledge before being reinstated.

Other options, such as completing continuing education credits or submitting affidavits of employment, may be part of the reapplication process, but they are not substitutes for the necessary requirement of reapplying for the license itself. In some cases, if the suspension is lengthy, there might be no need for the individual to take certain actions if those actions do not directly relate to the license’s reinstatement. Nonetheless, the primary obligation is to re