(a) The Department shall authorize examinations of applicants as respiratory care practitioners at the times and places as it may determine. The examination shall test an applicant’s competence and qualifications to practice respiratory care.
     (b) Applicants for examination shall pay, either to the Department or to the designated testing service, a fee covering the cost of providing the examination. Failure to appear for the examination on the scheduled date, at the time and place specified, after the application for examination has been received and acknowledged by the Department or the designated testing service shall result in the forfeiture of the examination fee.
     (c) If an applicant neglects, fails, or refuses to take an examination, or fails to pass an examination for a license under this Act within 3 years after filing an application, the application shall be denied and the fee forfeited. However, the applicant may thereafter submit a new application accompanied by the required fee. The applicant shall meet the requirements in force at the time of making the new application.
     (d) The Department may employ consultants for the purpose of preparing and conducting examinations.