Call your DNR. Don't email, don't write a letter, call. I couldn't get the time of day until I called.
For example: In GA the DNR publishes it's official stance as "non-native hots: illegal" and it usually back that up with the suggestion that there is not a permit. The reason is they don't want everyone getting a permit. Now when I called, they gave me the time of day to explain that a permit is attainable if you fit the criteria. Usually this includes scientific reasoning to possess the snake or educational reasoning. I was doing shows at the time, so I would have qualified. There were other details and criteria, but I was just using an example. Once they realized I wasn't another goof with a snake on the phone call, they opened up real quick and got me all the info for a permit.
No one can answer better how to get a license better than those who issue them, but you also gotta be ready to play by their rules.