A proximate audience display operator license issued by the Commissioner is required for an individual to obtain the necessary authorization under Article 54 of Chapter 14 of the N.C. Gen. Stat. to exhibit, use, handle, manufacture, or discharge pyrotechnics at a concert or public exhibition with a proximate audience display of pyrotechnics in this State. The Commissioner may issue a proximate audience display operator license to an individual who meets all of the following requirements:

(1)        Is at least 21 years of age at the time of application.

(2)        Completes the training program approved by the Commissioner for pyrotechnic proximate audience display operators or another program which the Commissioner determines to be substantially equivalent.

(3)        Successfully passes the written examination provided by the Commissioner.

(4)        Submits evidence of active participation as a display operator in the safe performance of at least three displays or as an assistant display operator in the safe performance of at least three displays under the direct supervision of a display operator.

(5)        Has no violations of any provision of this Article or of any similar provision of any other state and submits an “Employer Possessor Letter of Clearance” issued to the individual by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Chapter 40 or, if the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms has not issued a Letter of Clearance to the individual, the individual signs a statement provided by the Commissioner affirming that the individual has not been convicted of violating 18 U.S.C. Chapter 40, Section 842(i). ?(2010-22, s. 7.)