(1) Complete a criminal history records check in accordance with § 14-308.1 of this article;

(2) Be of good moral character;

(3) Demonstrate oral and written competency in the English language as required by the Board;

(4) Be at least 18 years old; and

(5) (i) Be a graduate of a physician assistant training program approved by the Board; or

(ii) Have passed the physician assistant national certifying examination administered by the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants prior to 1986, maintained all continuing education and recertification requirements, and been in continuous practice since passage of the examination.

(b) Except as otherwise provided in this title, the applicant shall pass a national certifying examination approved by the Board.

(c) An applicant who graduates from a physician assistant training program after October 1, 2003 shall have a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent.