(a) In addition to registering as a geologist, qualified persons may also be eligible for certification in a specialty. Such specialties may be
created by the board by regulation, with such regulations to contain any required additional qualifications. Only a registered geologist is eligible for certification in a specialty. Application may be submitted for both registration as a geologist and certification in a specialty at the same time, but the applicant must be approved for registration as a geologist before being considered for certification in a specialty. The certification in a specialty is dependent, in every case, upon the approval of registration as a geologist.
(b) An applicant for certification in a specialty shall meet all of the requirements of a registered geologist and such special requirements as the board may establish by regulation.