(a) Duration of license.--A license issued pursuant to this act shall be on a biennial basis. The biennial expiration date shall be established by the board in consultation with the commissioner. Application for renewal of a license shall biennially be forwarded to an individual holding a current license prior to the expiration date of the current renewal biennium. The application form must indicate whether certification will expire before the biennial renewal cycle will expire.

(b) Inactive status.--An individual licensed under this act may request an application for inactive status. The application form may be completed and returned to the board. Upon receipt of an application, the individual shall be maintained on inactive status without fee and shall be entitled to apply for a licensure renewal at any time. An individual who requests the board to activate his license and who has been on inactive status for a period of five consecutive years shall, prior to receiving an active license, satisfy the requirements of the board's regulations for ensuring continued competence, including holding current certification and remitting the required fee. The board shall promulgate regulations to carry into effect the provisions of this subsection.