(1) Upon approval by the department of an original applicant's education and experience requirements, the department will issue a letter of exam eligibility to take the examination pending completion of fingerprint and background checks.

(2) Only an original applicant for licensure or certification as an appraiser must take an examination. Reciprocal applicants, temporary permit applicants, and trainees and trainee mentors are not generally subject to an examination. However, for nonroutine reciprocal applicants under ARM 24.207.502 or licensees reactivating an inactive or administratively suspended license, the board may require the applicant to demonstrate competency by taking the licensing examination.

(3) Examinations are administered by a testing agency under contractual agreement with the board.