To be eligible for a license as a branch pilot in the jurisdiction of the pilot board of a navigation district in Cameron County, a person must:
(1) be at least 25 years of age;
(2) be a United States citizen;
(3) as of the date the license is issued, have resided continuously in this state for at least one year;
(4) be licensed under federal law to act as a pilot on vessels that navigate water on which the applicant will furnish pilot services;
(5) have at least 30 months' service as a deputy branch pilot or equivalent service piloting vessels on water in that board's jurisdiction;
(6) have commanded or controlled the navigation of vessels such as the person would pilot under the license;
(7) have extensive experience in the docking and undocking of vessels;
(8) be in good mental and physical health;
(9) have good moral character;
(10) possess the requisite skill as a navigator and pilot to perform competently and safely the duties of a branch pilot;
(11) be selected for appointment by a branch pilot licensed for water in that board's jurisdiction; and
(12) submit to the board written documentation from a branch pilot licensed for water in that board's jurisdiction that the person:
(A) has successfully completed a deputy branch pilot training program approved by that board; and
(B) is recommended for licensing as a branch pilot.