This is as black and white as it gets. Not sure how someone could interpret this any different. Note also there is no wording or mention of waivers for this requirement.
65.91 Inspection authorization.
(a) An application for an inspection authorization is made on a form and in a manner prescribed by the Administrator.
(b) An applicant who meets the requirements of this section is entitled to an inspection authorization.
(c) To be eligible for an inspection authorization, an applicant must—
(1) Hold a currently effective mechanic certificate with both an airframe rating and a powerplant rating, each of which is currently effective and has been in effect for a total of at least 3 years;
(2) Have been actively engaged, for at least the 2-year period before the date he applies, in maintaining aircraft certificated and maintained in accordance with this chapter;
(3) Have a fixed base of operations at which he may be located in person or by telephone during a normal working week but it need not be the place where he will exercise his inspection authority;
(4) Have available to him the equipment, facilities, and inspection data necessary to properly inspect airframes, powerplants, propellers, or any related part or appliance; and
(5) Pass a written test on his ability to inspect according to safety standards for returning aircraft to service after major repairs and major alterations and annual and progressive inspections performed under
part 43 of this chapter.
An applicant who fails the test prescribed in
paragraph (c)(5) of this section may not apply for retesting until at least 90 days after the date he failed the test.
Here's from the Order 8900.1, Vol 5, Chapter 5, Section 7
5-1279 ELIGIBILITY. The ASI needs to evaluate the applicant’s eligibility using the
following criteria before proceeding to test authorization.
None of the requirements of § 65.91
can be waived by the ASI.
A. Certification.
The applicant must hold a current Mechanic Certificate, with both
A&P ratings, that has been in effect for at least 3 years. If the ASI is unable to determine that the
applicant meets the 3-year requirement based on the Mechanic Certificate issue date or a review
of the Safety Performance Analysis System (SPAS) data, the ASI should contact the Airmen
Certification Branch (AFB-720) for verification of the original date of issue. The applicant must
have been actively engaged in maintaining certificated aircraft for at least the 2-year period
before applying