(1) For the purpose of investigating the character, competency, and integrity of the applicants, or for the purpose of investigating complaints made against the licensee, the director of the department may issue subpoenas and compel the attendance of witnesses. All subpoenas shall be issued under the hand of the director of the department and upon service the witness shall be tendered the fees to which he or she would be entitled to receive if subpoenaed in a court of law.

    (2) A person duly subpoenaed who fails to obey the subpoena or, without cause, refuses to be examined or to answer any legal or pertinent questions as to the character, qualifications, or alleged misdeeds of the applicant or licensee is guilty of a misdemeanor.

    (3) The testimony of such witnesses shall be under oath, which a designee of the director of the department may administer. Willful false swearing in any such proceeding is considered perjury.