(1) Initial certification is a document issued by DDA that indicates a children's state-operated living alternative provider meets the requirements under this chapter to deliver out-of-home services.

(2) The provider must obtain initial certification no more than ninety days after the first date of service delivery.

(3) The provider must allow a DDA-contracted evaluator to complete an on-site certification evaluation.

(4) Based on the findings of the certification evaluation, DDA may issue:

(a) Initial certification; or

(b) Provisional certification.

(5) An initial certification is valid for no more than twelve months.