Under what condition can an expired license be renewed without penalty?

A license can be renewed without penalty if the holder was in active service in the armed forces. This provision acknowledges the unique circumstances that military personnel face, such as deployment or relocation, which may prevent them from keeping their professional licenses current. As a way to support service members, many states, including Ohio, provide mechanisms that allow for an easier renewal process under these conditions, understanding that military duties can lead to unintentional lapses in licensing.

In contrast, being out of state for any reason does not automatically exempt a license holder from penalties. Similarly, simply having a valid reason for a delay does not guarantee a penalty-free renewal, as the specific conditions may vary. Finally, while paying a late fee allows for the renewal of a license after its expiration, it does not eliminate the penalty; rather, it serves as a form of remedy for maintaining licensure.