This clause requires you to keep your professional licenses, certifications, or qualifications current—for example, a doctor's medical license, an accountant's CPA status, or a lawyer's bar admission. It matters because these qualifications are often legally required to do the job, and if you lose them, you can't work and the employer can't use you. The clause typically says you must pay for renewal fees and training courses yourself, and that losing a qualification is grounds for dismissal. In most jurisdictions, employers can legally fire you if you can no longer do the job you were hired for. This clause protects the employer but can be unfair if renewal costs are very high.
Accept this clause—it's reasonable and standard. However, negotiate to add that the employer will reimburse you for mandatory renewal fees and training required to maintain the qualification, or at least cover half the cost. Also ask that you get reasonable notice and a chance to renew before dismissal, rather than immediate termination. ---
Frequently Asked Questions
What does this clause mean in simple terms?
This clause requires you to keep your professional licenses, certifications, or qualifications current—for example, a doctor's medical license, an accountant's CPA status, or a lawyer's bar admission.
Why should I care about this clause?
It matters because these qualifications are often legally required to do the job, and if you lose them, you can't work and the employer can't use you.
What are my options?
The clause typically says you must pay for renewal fees and training courses yourself, and that losing a qualification is grounds for dismissal.
How does this affect small businesses?
In most jurisdictions, employers can legally fire you if you can no longer do the job you were hired for.