During a compliance drill, focus on how the Uniform Securities Act applies here. Focus on what changes once the scenario is viewed through state law. A broker-dealer's registration application filed with the state Administrator becomes effective:

Why B — At noon on the 30th day after filing, unless earlier or later dates are specified by the Administrator

Under USA Section 202(c), a broker-dealer registration becomes effective at noon on the 30th day after an application is filed, unless the Administrator specifies an earlier or later date or a proceeding is pending. This provides a standard timeline while giving the Administrator flexibility. The exam trick is the framing, not the underlying Uniform Securities Act rule.