What does the concept of "grandfathering" refer to in licensing?

The concept of "grandfathering" in licensing refers to the provision that allows individuals who were licensed before new regulations or laws were implemented to continue practicing without needing to re-qualify under the new rules. This is often established to ensure that those who have been working in their profession and maintaining their skills are not unfairly penalized by changes in legislation that impose additional requirements on new license applications.

In this context, individuals who held valid licenses prior to the enforcement of new laws can maintain their right to practice without undergoing the additional requirements that new entrants must fulfill. This practice helps to respect and acknowledge the experience and competencies that seasoned practitioners have built up over time.

The other options relate to aspects of licensing but do not accurately describe the grandfathering concept. New license requirements, mentorship roles, or waiving fees do not encapsulate the idea that existing licenses are maintained without reassessment due to the introduction of stricter regulations.