Hereafter, no vehicle may be operated as an ambulance, except its licensed owner apply for and receive an ambulance permit issued by the Department for that vehicle. Prior to issuing an original permit for an ambulance, the vehicle for which the permit is issued shall meet all requirements as to vehicle design, construction, staffing, medical and communication equipment and supplies, and sanitation as set forth in this chapter or in the standards and regulations established by the Board. Permits issued for ambulances shall be valid for a period not to exceed two years.