(1) An applicant for certification as a fire sprinkler inspector under this chapter making application to the department prior to July 1, 2012, shall be certified by the department without completing the certification requirements as established in this chapter if:
(a) The applicant is currently certified by the state of Kentucky, or (b) The applicant is currently licensed, certified, or registered as a fire sprinkler inspector in another state whose standards are substantially equal to those in this chapter.
(2) Prior to July 1, 2012, the department may issue a pending certification to an applicant. A pending certification shall allow the applicant to act in the capacity applied for until the applicant's permanent certification is issued or the application is denied.
(3) After July 1, 2012, certification under this section shall cease.