When does a board decision about an applicant's certification become effective?

The effective date of a board decision regarding an applicant's certification is determined by the receipt of the applicant's fingerprint results. This is significant because fingerprint results are an essential part of the certification process, ensuring that the applicant meets the required background checks and has no disqualifying criminal history. The completion of this background check is critical to maintaining the integrity of the certification process, as it protects the public and upholds the standards of the profession.

While the notification to the applicant, the board's voting decision, and the submission of additional documents play important roles in the overall certification process, they do not influence when the decision itself becomes effective. The emphasis is on the completion of prerequisite checks, such as fingerprinting, that must be satisfied for the certification to be valid and recognized.