The Department shall authorize examinations of applicants as nursing home administrators at such times and places as it may determine. Examinations shall be held not less frequently than 2 times every year. The examination of applicants shall be of a character to give a fair test of the qualifications of the applicant to practice nursing home administration.
     Applicants for examination as nursing home administrators shall be required to pay, either to the Department or 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 applicant’s 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.
     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 his or her licensure application, the application shall be denied and the examination shall be void. However, such applicant may thereafter make a new application for examination accompanied by the required fee, and must furnish proof of meeting qualifications for examination in effect at the time of new application.
     An applicant shall have one year from the date of notification of successful completion of the examination to apply to the Department for a license. If an applicant fails to apply within one year, the applicant shall be required to again take and pass the examination.
     The Department may employ consultants for the purpose of preparing and conducting examinations.