What is the consequence of not renewing a real estate license within the designated period?

When a real estate license is not renewed within the designated period, the consequence is that the license becomes inactive. This means that while the individual may still hold a license, they are not legally allowed to engage in real estate transactions or represent clients until they take the necessary steps to reactivate their license. This can involve fulfilling continuing education requirements or paying any applicable renewal fees.

The other options represent more serious consequences or misunderstandings of the renewal process. Termination implies a complete end to the license without the possibility of regaining it, which is different from an inactive status that can be rectified. Imposing a fine typically occurs for specific violations rather than simply failing to renew on time. Facing criminal charges would be a result of more severe violations of laws related to real estate practices, not merely an oversight or lapse in renewal. Therefore, the correct consequence aligns with the policy of maintaining a system that allows for eventual reactivation rather than penalizing with total loss or criminal repercussions.