37-3-309. Application for license. A person desiring a license to practice medicine shall apply to the department on an approved form. The application must be accompanied by the license fee and documents, affidavits, and certificates necessary to establish that the applicant possesses the qualifications prescribed by this chapter apart from an examination required by the board. The burden of proof is on the applicant, but the department may make an independent investigation to determine whether the applicant possesses the qualifications and whether the applicant has committed unprofessional conduct. The applicant shall provide necessary authorizations for the release of records and information pertinent to the department's inquiry.