Within the limits of the appropriation for the department, and in accordance with section 1921 of this title, the commissioner may appoint or promote members to the ranks, grades and position deemed necessary for efficient administration. The commissioner may devise and administer examinations designed to test the qualifications of members and only those applicants shall be appointed or promoted who meet the prescribed standards and qualifications. (Amended 1979, No. 156 (Adj. Sess.), § 2; 1999, No. 142 (Adj. Sess.), § 1.)