A. In order to distribute the continuation workload as uniformly as practicable throughout the twelve months of the calendar year, the director may provide for staggered continuation dates for the right to use a dealer license plate. In order to initiate a staggered continuation system, the director may initially provide or continue the right for more or less than a twelve month period, but not more than eighteen months, and may prorate the fees.

B. If a dealer fails, neglects or refuses to pay the required fee for the ensuing year on or before midnight on the continuation date, the fee is delinquent, and the department shall charge and collect a penalty equal to the fee if the dealer files an application for reinstatement after the continuation date.