(a) For the protection of the people of West Virginia, the commissioner shall not issue, renew or permit to exist any adjuster's license, except to an individual who:

(1) Is eighteen years of age or more.

(2) Is a resident of West Virginia, except for nonresident adjusters as provided in section nine of this article.

(3) Satisfies the commissioner that he or she is trustworthy and competent.

(b)(1) The commissioner may, at his or her discretion, test the competency of an applicant for a license under this section by examination. However, in order to qualify for a crop adjuster license, an applicant must pass a written examination that tests the knowledge of the individual concerning the insurance laws of this state and the duties and responsibilities of a multi-peril crop adjuster. In lieu of such an examination, the commissioner may accept certification that the individual has passed a proficiency examination approved by the federal Risk Management Agency.

(2) If such an examination is required, each examinee shall pay a $25 examination fee for each examination to the commissioner, which fees shall be used for the purposes set forth in section thirteen, article three of this chapter. The commissioner may, at his or her discretion, designate an independent testing service to prepare and administer such examination subject to direction and approval by the commissioner, and examination fees charged by such service shall be paid by the applicant.

(c) The requirements of this section do not apply to licenses issued to emergency adjusters.