A.  The board shall issue a license to each applicant who files an application upon a form and in such manner as the board prescribes, accompanied by such fee as required by La. Rev. Stat. 37:3446, and who furnishes satisfactory evidence to the board that he:

(1)  Is at least twenty-one years of age.

(2)  Is of good moral character.

(3)  Is not in violation of any of the provisions of this Chapter and the rules and regulations adopted hereunder.

(4)  Has declared special competencies and demonstrated professional competence therein by passing a written or oral examination, as the board shall prescribe.

(5)(a)  Has received a master’s degree in rehabilitation counseling or related field and two years experience under the supervision of a licensed vocational rehabilitation counselor or

(b)  Has received a bachelor’s degree in vocational rehabilitation or related field and five years work experience, working under the supervision of a licensed vocational rehabilitation counselor, which period of supervision shall begin prior to September 1, 2008, and shall be completed within six years of the date the written proposal for such supervision is submitted to the board in accordance with the requirements established by the board.

B.  The board shall license to practice all persons who present satisfactory evidence of qualifications as specified in this Section and under provisions of the rules and regulations of the board.  Such licensure shall be signed by the chairman and vice chairman of the board under the seal of the board.

C.  No license shall be denied any applicant based upon the applicant’s race, religion, creed, national origin, sex, or physical impairment.

Acts 1988, No. 555, §1, eff. July 14, 1988; Acts 2004, No. 360, §1.