(a) If upon completion of the application for a certificate of authority the commissioner finds that the insurer has met the requirements for and is entitled thereto under this title, he shall issue to the insurer a proper certificate of authority; if he does not so find, the commissioner shall issue his order refusing such certificate. The commissioner shall act upon an application for a certificate of authority within a reasonable period after its completion.
(b) The certificate, if issued, shall specify the kind, or kinds, of insurance the insurer is authorized to transact in this state. At the insurer's request, the commissioner may issue a certificate of authority limited to particular types of insurance or insurance coverages within the scope of a kind of insurance as defined in Chapter 5 of this title.
(c) Although issued to the insurer, the certificate of authority is at all times the property of the State of Alabama. Upon any expiration, suspension, or termination thereof, the insurer shall promptly deliver the certificate of authority to the commissioner.