(1) An application by an underage applicant for a driver's license must be referred to the field for a thorough investigation to determine the necessity for issuing the license.

(2) Approval of a request for a restricted license by an underage applicant may be recommended only in cases of dire necessity.

(3) The issuance of a restricted license to an underage applicant is considered necessary if:

(a) family economic pressures are such that the applicant's income is necessary to maintain the family unit (inconvenience or a desire to avoid hiring extra help is insufficient) ;

(b) the applicant lacks school bus transportation; or

(c) the applicant must provide transportation to a chronically ill or disabled parent and no other transportation is available.