(1) To obtain a fire suppression system apprentice permit, an applicant must pay an application fee of $75 and either:

(a) meet the qualifications for reciprocity pursuant to Section 9-2506 of this Chapter; or

(b) obtain a permit under subsection (2) of this Section.

(2) The Department shall issue a fire suppression system apprentice permit to any person who:

(a) completes an application for such a permit established by the Department; and

(b) is enrolled in a registered fire suppression system apprenticeship program.

(3) A fire suppression system apprentice permit issued by the Department shall be valid only for such time as the holder is enrolled in a registered fire suppression system apprenticeship program in accordance with this Chapter.

(4) Nothing in this Chapter shall be construed to prohibit a fire suppression system apprentice who is issued a permit pursuant to this Chapter from engaging in work regulated by this Chapter, provided the apprentice is working under the supervision of a fire suppression system certificate holder certified in the relevant classification of work.