What should a real estate agent do if they find out that their license has expired?

When a real estate agent discovers that their license has expired, it is crucial to seek reinstatement as soon as possible. An expired license means that the agent is not legally allowed to engage in real estate activities, which can lead to significant legal and professional consequences. By promptly addressing the situation through the reinstatement process, the agent minimizes the risk of non-compliance with licensing laws and helps maintain their professional reputation.

Timely action is vital, as many licensing jurisdictions, including South Dakota, impose deadlines for renewal or reinstatement after expiration. Addressing the issue immediately also shows commitment to professionalism and adherence to legal requirements. Failure to act quickly can lead to complications such as fines, the necessity for additional training, or potentially reapplying for a completely new license, which can be a more tedious and time-consuming process.

In this scenario, seeking reinstatement is the most proactive and responsible course of action for an agent who has found their license has lapsed.