Every applicant for a certificate of competence shall have at least one year of practical experience in the operation of a laser. Such required experience may be obtained by a trainee who is designated by and working under the direct supervision of a certified mobile laser operator. Such experience shall include knowledge of laser safety precautions and shall be acceptable to the commissioner. The commissioner may waive the one-year experience requirement if the applicant submits evidence of his successful completion of a laser operator training course acceptable to the commissioner.