The Department may, upon its own motion, and shall, upon the verified written complaint of any person setting forth facts which if proved would constitute grounds for refusal, suspension or revocation of a license or permit, investigate the actions of any applicant or any person or persons holding or claiming to hold a license or permit. Before refusing to issue or renew, and before suspending or revoking a license or permit, the Department shall in writing notify the applicant for or holder of a license or permit, hereinafter called the respondent, that a hearing will be held to determine whether the respondent is qualified to hold such license or permit, and shall afford the respondent an opportunity to be heard in person or by counsel. Such written notice shall be delivered to the respondent at least 10 days prior to the hearing by personal service on the respondent or by registered or certified mail sent to the respondent’s business address as shown in his latest correspondence with the Department. At the hearing, both the respondent and the complainant shall be afforded ample opportunity to present in person or by counsel such statements, testimony, evidence and argument as may be pertinent to the charges or to any defense thereto. The Department may continue such hearing from time to time. If the Department shall not be sitting at the time and place fixed in the notice or to which the hearing has been continued, the Director may continue such hearing for a period not to exceed 30 days.
     The Department, by the signature of the Director, may subpoena any person in this State, and receive evidence in the same manner and with the same fees as prescribed for judicial proceedings in civil cases.
     Any authorized agent of the Department may administer oaths to witnesses at any hearing which the Department is authorized to conduct.