(1) After the expiration of 12 months after the effective date of the 1997 amendatory act that amended this section, the department shall issue a license as an esthetician to an individual who fulfills all of the following requirements:

  (a) Is at least 17 years of age.

  (b) Is of good moral character.

  (c) Has had an education equivalent to the completion of the ninth grade.

  (d) Has completed not less than 400 hours of training either in a licensed school of cosmetology or as an apprentice for not less than 6 months in a licensed cosmetology establishment where skin care services are rendered. The training shall include a minimum number of practical applications as prescribed in rules promulgated by the director.

  (e) If an examination is available, has passed an examination prescribed by the board and the department.

  (2) Until the expiration of 12 months after the effective date of the 1997 amendatory act that added this subsection, the department shall issue a license as an esthetician to an individual who fulfills all of the following requirements:

  (a) Is at least 17 years of age.

  (b) Is of good moral character.

  (c) Has had an education equivalent to the completion of the ninth grade.

  (d) Provides evidence of having obtained the equivalent of 6 months of full-time experience in skin care services in this or any other state within the 12 months immediately preceding the date of application.

  (e) If an examination is available, has passed an examination prescribed by the board and the department.