(a) If the commissioner finds that one or more grounds exist for the discretionary suspension or revocation of a certificate of authority issued under this article, the commissioner may, in lieu of the suspension or revocation, impose a fine upon the certificate holder in an amount not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000) for each nonwillful violation and in an amount not to exceed ten thousand dollars ($10,000) for each willful violation.
(b) The commissioner may grant not more than 30 days from the date of the order for the payment of any fine.