(A) An optometrist who intends not to continue practicing optometry in this state due to retirement or a decision to practice in another state or country may apply to the state vision professionals board to have the certificates issued to the optometrist placed on inactive status. Application for inactive status shall consist of a written notice to the board of the optometrist's intention to no longer practice in this state. The board may not accept an application submitted after the applicant's certificate of licensure and any other certificates have expired. The board may approve an application for placement on inactive status only if the applicant's certificates are in good standing and the applicant is not under disciplinary review pursuant to section 4725.19 of the Revised Code.

(B) An individual whose certificates have been placed on inactive status may submit an application to the board for reinstatement. For reinstatement to occur, the applicant must meet all of the following conditions:

(1) Pay the renewal fees for the year in which application for reinstatement is made and the reinstatement fee specified under division (A)(9) of section 4725.34 of the Revised Code;

(2) Pass all or part of the licensing examination accepted by the board under section 4725.11 of the Revised Code as the board considers appropriate, if the board considers examination necessary to determine whether the application for reinstatement should be approved;

(3) If the applicant has been practicing optometry in another state or country, submit evidence of being in the active practice of optometry in the other state or country and evidence that the applicant's license to practice in the other state or country is in good standing.

(C) The board shall approve an application for reinstatement if the conditions specified in division (B) of this section are met. An optometrist who receives reinstatement is subject to the continuing education requirements specified under section 4725.16 of the Revised Code for the year in which reinstatement occurs.

Amended by 132nd General Assembly File No. TBD, HB 49, §130.11, eff. 1/21/2018.

Effective Date: 02-12-2001 .