A person licensed to practice forestry by a state or country whose requirements are commensurate with the requirements of this State, upon payment of the fee established pursuant to § 48-27-140, may be registered and licensed to practice forestry in this State, with renewal privileges set forth in § 48-27-190. The board shall deny licensure to a person convicted of a felony or crime involving moral turpitude. However, the applicant may be licensed by the board if:

(1) At least five years have passed since he was convicted, sentenced, or released from incarceration, whichever is later.

(2) No criminal charges are pending against him.