(a) Upon payment of the proper fees, an applicant for a license to practice respiratory care shall submit to the board written evidence, verified by oath, that the applicant:
- (1) Has completed an approved respiratory care educational program; and
- (2) Passed a certification or registration examination, except where otherwise provided in this article. This examination may be administered by the state or by a national agency approved by the board. The board shall set the passing score for the examination.