The board may, in its discretion, hold a hearing for the purpose of determining any question presented to it involving any right, benefit, or obligation of a person under this part. Where a hearing is held, the proceedings shall be conducted in accordance with Chapter 5 (commencing with Section 11500) of Part 1 of Division 3, and the board shall have all of the powers granted therein; except that Section 11508 shall not apply, and the hearing shall be held at the time and place determined by the board.