All licenses issued under this Act shall expire on January 31, next following the date of issuance, except that a license issued after October 31 and before January 31 shall expire on January 31 next occurring after the license has been in effect for one year. A license may be renewed for an ensuing license year without examination by making application therefor and paying the prescribed fee at least 30 days prior to the expiration date of the current license and such application shall extend the period of validity of the current license until a new license is received or the Department refuses to issue a new license under the provisions of this Act. A license issued under this Act which has expired may be reinstated immediately upon payment of the reinstatement fee, provided, however, not more than 3 years have elapsed since the date of expiration. A license which has expired for more than 3 years may be restored only by payment of the restoration fee and submitting evidence satisfactory to the Department of the current qualifications and fitness of the registrant, and by successfully passing the examination for a Water Well Contractor, Water Well Pump Installation Contractor, or Water Well and Pump Installation Contractor’s License.
     Beginning January 1, 2000, a contractor seeking a renewal license under this Act shall provide substantial evidence that he or she has attended at least one continuing education session in the preceding 2 years in order to qualify for a renewal license.