(a) The department shall issue an air conditioning and refrigeration technician certification to an applicant who:
(1) submits a verified application;
(2) passes a competency examination;
(3) meets the requirements of this chapter and the rules adopted under this chapter; and
(4) pays the required fees.
(b) An applicant who receives a certification under this subchapter may use the designation "certified technician."
(c) A certification issued under this subchapter expires on the first anniversary of the date of issuance.