Which power allows the Board to grant licenses in exceptional cases?

The ability of the Board to grant licenses in exceptional cases is derived from the power to waive examination requirements. This power is significant because it allows the Board to exercise discretion when considering applicants who may not meet the standard criteria, particularly in unique or extenuating circumstances. The ability to waive the examination can be crucial for potential licensees who possess significant expertise or experience in the field but may face barriers that prevent them from taking or passing the standard examinations. This flexibility is important for ensuring that qualified individuals have the opportunity to practice, even if they do not fit the usual mold.

In contrast, eligibility requirements are the baseline criteria that all applicants must meet to be considered for a license, and they do not provide room for exceptions. Temporary licenses and certifications for alternative routes may offer alternative pathways or provisional statuses but do not grant the Board the power to bypass examination criteria in exceptional circumstances. Therefore, the waiver of examination stands out as the specific authority that enables the Board to address unique cases, reflecting a compassionate and adaptive approach to licensing.