(a) If a hearing is desired, the respondent shall file a request, in writing, with the appropriate TTB officer within 15 days after receipt of the citation or within such time as the appropriate TTB officer may allow.

(b) Where a respondent requests a hearing, the appropriate TTB officer shall forward a copy of the request together with a copy of the citation to the Administrator for the assignment of an administrative law judge.

(c) After the Administrator notifies the appropriate TTB officer of the assignment of the administrative law judge, the appropriate TTB officer shall serve a notice of designation of the administrative law judge on the respondent.

(d) The administrative law judge shall set a time and place for a hearing and shall serve notice thereof on the parties at least 10 days in advance of the hearing date.