(a) To obtain an air conditioning and refrigeration technician certification, an applicant must:(1) be at least 18 years old at the time of application;(2) submit a completed application on a department-approved form;(3) at the time of application, have either:(A) completed a career and technology education program;(B) completed a certification training program; or(C) performed 24 months of air conditioning and refrigeration-related work:(i) under the supervision of a licensed air conditioning and refrigeration contractor; or(ii) as part of the applicant's military occupational specialty within the armed forces of the United States;(4) pass the examination;(5) submit the required fees; and(6) complete all requirements, including passing the exam, within one year of the date the application is filed.(b) An applicant must submit the proper documentation as prescribed by the department to receive credit for the claimed amount and type of classroom instruction and practical experience.(c) An applicant who receives a certification pursuant to this section may use the designation "certified technician."(d) A certification issued under this section expires on the first anniversary of the date of issuance.