In any investigation, proceeding or hearing which the administrator is empowered to institute, conduct or hold, the board, and each member thereof, may administer oaths, certify to official acts, issue subpoenas for the attendance of witnesses and the production of books, papers and records, in like manner and to the same extent as courts of record, and with their aid when necessary. The process issued by the board, or any member thereof, shall extend to all parts of the state and may be served by any person authorized to serve process, or by any person designated for that purpose by the board or a member thereof. The person executing any such process shall receive such compensation as may be allowed by the board and not to exceed the fees prescribed by law for similar services, and such fees shall be paid in the same manner as provided herein for the payment of fees for witnesses. Any citation, notice or other process or any paper or document required by this chapter to be served on any party may be personally served as provided in the code of civil procedure, with the same effect as if served by mail in the manner provided in this chapter.