When is an applicant allowed to practice in their profession after submitting an application?

The correct answer is that an applicant is allowed to practice in their profession when the director processes the application. This reflects the standard procedure for licensing and registration in many professional fields, including legal document preparation in Arizona.

Once an application is submitted, it typically undergoes a review process by the governing body—in this case, the director responsible for overseeing legal document preparers. This stage is crucial as it involves verifying that the applicant meets all necessary qualifications, including education and ethical standards. Only after this review and processing can an applicant officially begin practicing, ensuring that all regulatory requirements are satisfied to uphold the integrity of the profession.

This procedure is designed to protect the public by ensuring that only those who have met the criteria can engage in professional activities. Other options suggest practices that deviate from the established protocol or imply a waiting period based on conditions that are not part of the standard application process. For instance, approval based on good cause, holding a hearing, or immediate practice post-submission would not align with the careful vetting process required to maintain professional standards.