What should a professional do if they miss the deadline for completing CE?

When a professional misses the deadline for completing continuing education (CE), the most responsible course of action is to contact their licensing board for guidance on potential penalties or extensions. This step is crucial because each licensing board has specific protocols in place for handling such situations. By reaching out, the professional can determine if there are any options available to remediate the situation, such as obtaining an extension for completing the required CE or understanding the penalties involved.

This proactive approach demonstrates a commitment to compliance and professionalism. Moreover, different boards may have varying levels of disciplinary actions or opportunities for appeal, making it essential to get accurate information directly from the source responsible for enforcement. It also ensures that the professional remains in good standing with their licensing authority, which is critical for their career and maintaining licensure.

In contrast, options like ignoring the issue or relying on employers could lead to more severe consequences, such as disciplinary action or loss of licensing, while automatically facing penalties without recourse would not address the situation proactively.