Under what circumstance may a broker refuse to release a salesperson's license?

In the context of Georgia Real Estate License Laws, a broker's obligation to release a salesperson's license is clear. The law stipulates that a broker must return a salesperson's license upon request, regardless of the circumstances that may exist at the time of the request. This rule is intended to ensure that salespersons have the ability to work independently and seek new opportunities without undue hindrance from their current brokerage.

While it may seem reasonable for a broker to withhold a license if a salesperson owes money or has not returned property, the law does not permit such actions. This is to protect individuals in the real estate profession and to promote fair practices within the industry. Thus, the correct understanding of the law is that a broker cannot refuse to release a salesperson’s license under any circumstance, reinforcing the principle that the license belongs to the individual and not to the broker.