How to become a certified backflow tester, state by state
A backflow tester certification shows you passed an approved training course and a written and hands-on exam. There is no national license: each state, or in some places the water utility, sets the rules, the approved courses and how often you renew.
How certification works
Training course. Most states require an approved course before the exam. Texas requires a 40-hour course, Oregon a 5-day course, Georgia and Idaho a 32-hour class, and California at least 30 hours over at least four days.
Exam. You pass a written exam and a hands-on practical exam. In Missouri the exams come from ABPA or ASSE, are proctored by a third party, and instructors may not test their own students. In Texas the training provider gives the practical exam.
Test gauge. Your test kit must be checked for accuracy every year. Texas, Tennessee, South Carolina, Indiana and California all say so.
Renewal. Certificates last one to three years, depending on the state. Many states require a refresher course or continuing education hours to renew.
Sources: TCEQ, BPAT license requirements; Oregon Health Authority, approved training; Georgia EPD backflow prevention program guidance; Idaho DOPL, BAT course approval guidelines; State Water Board Cross-Connection Control Policy Handbook; Missouri DNR PUB2016; TCEQ RG-478, gauge accuracy; TDEC Cross Connection Manual; SCDES, recertification letter; IDEM manual, test equipment
Certification rules by state
Who certifies testers, where to train and how often to renew, in each state BackflowNear covers. Local water utilities can add their own rules on top of the state's.
| State | Certifying body | Approved courses | Renewal | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arkansas | Arkansas Department of Health | 6 ADH accredited programs | Every 24 months | healthy.arkansas.gov |
| California | State Water Board recognized certifiers (ABPA, ASSE 5110, CA-NV AWWA) | No state course list; course of 30+ hours over 4+ days | At least every 3 years | waterboards.ca.gov |
| District of Columbia | DC Water approval of independently certified providers | No course list | Set by certifier | dcwater.com |
| Florida | No state tester license; UF TREEO is the FSAWWA accredited program | UF TREEO five-day course | Every 2 years (TREEO) | reg.pwd.aa.ufl.edu |
| Georgia | Georgia EPD through GAWP | 32-hour class from a GAWP-approved provider | Every 3 years, 6 CE hours | epd.georgia.gov |
| Idaho | Board of Drinking Water and Wastewater Professionals (DOPL) | 4 listed BAT course providers; 32-hour class | 8-hour refresher every 2 years | adminrules.idaho.gov |
| Illinois | Illinois EPA (CCCDI) | ERTC at SIU Edwardsville, four-day course | Refresher courses offered | epa.illinois.gov |
| Indiana | IDEM | 4 approved 40-hour courses | License does not expire | in.gov |
| Louisiana | Louisiana Department of Health | No tester course list; WSPS plumbers or certified general testers | Not printed | ldh.la.gov |
| Maryland | State Board of Plumbing | 32-hour Board approved program | Recertification training every 5 years | dsd.maryland.gov |
| Minnesota | Department of Labor and Industry, with ASSE 5110 | 8 ASSE approved schools in Minnesota | Every 2 years | revisor.mn.gov |
| Missouri | Missouri DNR, with ABPA or ASSE exams | No published course list; exam schedule on request | Every 3 years | dnr.mo.gov |
| New York | NYS Department of Health | 12 NYSDOH approved providers | Every 3 years, renewal course | regs.health.ny.gov |
| North Carolina | Water Treatment Facility Operators Certification Board | 2 Board approved cross-connection schools | Every year, $30 | reports.oah.state.nc.us |
| Oregon | Oregon Health Authority | 4 approved 5-day tester course providers | Every 2 years (December 31) | oregon.gov |
| South Carolina | SC Department of Environmental Services | State four-day course; 8 recertification stations | Every 3 years | des.sc.gov |
| Tennessee | TDEC Fleming Training Center | 9 TDEC approved providers | Every 3 years | tn.gov |
| Texas | TCEQ | 17 approved 40-hour course providers | Every 3 years, 24 CE hours | tceq.texas.gov |
| Utah | Utah Division of Drinking Water, ABPA exams | DDW links a course list | Every 3 years; refresher course optional | deq.utah.gov |
| Virginia | Board for Contractors (DPOR) | 35 approved backflow schools | Every 2 years, $110 fee | law.lis.virginia.gov |
| Washington | Department of Health, Washington Certification Services | No endorsed courses; training recommended | Every year (December 31) | app.leg.wa.gov |
Sources: Arkansas Department of Health, assembly tester application; State Water Board Cross-Connection Control Policy Handbook; DC Water, backflow service providers; UF TREEO, Backflow Prevention Assembly Tester course; Georgia EPD backflow prevention program guidance; IDAPA 24.05.01; Illinois EPA, cross connection control; IDEM manual, tester license; Louisiana Department of Health, engineering services; COMAR 09.20.04.01; COMAR 09.20.04.02; Minnesota Statutes 326B.437; Missouri DNR PUB2016; 10 NYCRR 5-1.31; 15A NCAC 18D, annual renewal; Oregon Health Authority, tester certification; SCDES, recertification; TDEC Fleming Training Center, Renewal Workshop; TCEQ, BPAT renewal; Utah rule R309-305-7; 18VAC50-30-120, renewal; WAC 246-292
Texas: TCEQ approved 40-hour tester courses
TCEQ licenses backflow prevention assembly testers. A new license needs one required course: Backflow Prevention Assembly Tester (with Practical Skills), course code 1200, a 40-hour course.
TCEQ's training database lists 17 providers approved to teach that course, all in person. The practical part of the exam is given by the training provider; the written part is given at a TCEQ approved computer testing site.
The license fee is $111. Licenses are valid for three years, and renewal takes 24 hours of continuing education, 8 of them hands-on. The database does not print course prices or cities; ask each provider.
| Provider | City | Course | Cost | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arkansas Environmental Academy Texarkana (SAU Tech) | Not printed | Course 1200, 40-hour core tester course with practical skills, in person | Not printed | data.texas.gov |
| Bac-Flo Unlimited | Not printed | Course 1200, 40-hour core tester course with practical skills, in person | Not printed | data.texas.gov |
| Brazos Valley Water Protection | Not printed | Course 1200, 40-hour core tester course with practical skills, in person | Not printed | data.texas.gov |
| C2 Services | Not printed | Course 1200, 40-hour core tester course with practical skills, in person | Not printed | data.texas.gov |
| Construction Education Foundation | Not printed | Course 1200, 40-hour core tester course with practical skills, in person | Not printed | data.texas.gov |
| Hardin and Associates Consulting, LLC | Not printed | Course 1200, 40-hour core tester course with practical skills, in person | Not printed | data.texas.gov |
| International Code Council | Not printed | Course 1200, 40-hour core tester course with practical skills, in person | Not printed | data.texas.gov |
| Sundance Irrigation Training | Not printed | Course 1200, 40-hour core tester course with practical skills, in person | Not printed | data.texas.gov |
| Metroplex Training Center | Not printed | Course 1200, 40-hour core tester course with practical skills, in person | Not printed | data.texas.gov |
| My Construction Education | Not printed | Course 1200, 40-hour core tester course with practical skills, in person | Not printed | data.texas.gov |
| National Water Specialties | Not printed | Course 1200, 40-hour core tester course with practical skills, in person | Not printed | data.texas.gov |
| Associated Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors of Texas | Not printed | Course 1200, 40-hour core tester course with practical skills, in person | Not printed | data.texas.gov |
| Texas Engineering Extension Service (TEEX) | Not printed | Course 1200, 40-hour core tester course with practical skills, in person | Not printed | data.texas.gov |
| Texas Pipe Trades | Not printed | Course 1200, 40-hour core tester course with practical skills, in person | Not printed | data.texas.gov |
| Texas State Technical College (Breckenridge campus) | Not printed | Course 1200, 40-hour core tester course with practical skills, in person | Not printed | data.texas.gov |
| Texas Water Utility Association | Not printed | Course 1200, 40-hour core tester course with practical skills, in person | Not printed | data.texas.gov |
| Viking 2 | Not printed | Course 1200, 40-hour core tester course with practical skills, in person | Not printed | data.texas.gov |
Sources: TCEQ, BPAT required course for a new license; TCEQ Training Database on the Texas Open Data Portal, course 1200; TCEQ, BPAT license requirements
Arkansas: ADH accredited backflow training programs
The Arkansas Department of Health requires certification from an Arkansas accredited training program, or similar, to license an assembly tester technician.
The Department lists six accredited backflow prevention training programs. Re-certification is required every 24 months. A tester who goes more than 36 months without re-certifying must retrain and retest in full.
| Provider | City | Course | Cost | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arkansas Rural Water Association | Lonoke, AR | ADH accredited backflow training program | Not printed | healthy.arkansas.gov |
| Kruger's Training Academy | New York, NY | ADH accredited backflow training program | Not printed | healthy.arkansas.gov |
| Ozarks Technical Community College | Springfield, MO | ADH accredited backflow training program | Not printed | healthy.arkansas.gov |
| Plumbers and Pipefitters Apprenticeship Training of Arkansas (Local 155) | Little Rock, AR | ADH accredited backflow training program | Not printed | healthy.arkansas.gov |
| Plumbers and Pipefitters Local 178 | Not printed | ADH accredited backflow training program | Not printed | healthy.arkansas.gov |
| Southern Arkansas University Tech, Arkansas Environmental Academy | Camden, AR | ADH accredited backflow training program | Not printed | healthy.arkansas.gov |
Sources: Arkansas Department of Health, accredited training programs; Arkansas Department of Health, assembly tester application
Tennessee: TDEC approved tester training providers
TDEC lists nine organizations approved to provide training for Tennessee backflow tester certification. TDEC's own Fleming Training Center runs a 3-day Basic Workshop for $335 and a 1-day Renewal Workshop for $170.
For the other providers, TDEC says to contact them directly for dates and fees. Certificates must be renewed every three years, and test kits must be certified every year.
| Provider | City | Course | Cost | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Backflow Control | Potts Camp, MS | TDEC approved tester training | Not printed | tn.gov |
| Backflow Preventer | Memphis, TN | TDEC approved tester training | Not printed | tn.gov |
| Fleming Training Center (TDEC) | Murfreesboro, TN | Course 101 Basic Workshop, 3 days; Course 102 Renewal Workshop, 1 day | $335 basic; $170 renewal | tn.gov |
| Memphis Light, Gas and Water | Memphis, TN | TDEC approved tester training | Not printed | tn.gov |
| Plumbers and Pipefitters Local 572 JATC | Nashville, TN | TDEC approved tester training | Not printed | tn.gov |
| Plumbers and Steamfitters Local 43 JATC | Chattanooga, TN | TDEC approved tester training | Not printed | tn.gov |
| Plumbers and Steamfitters Local 102 JATC | Knoxville, TN | TDEC approved tester training | Not printed | tn.gov |
| Memphis Plumbers JAC Local 17 | Memphis, TN | TDEC approved tester training | Not printed | tn.gov |
| Tennessee Association of Utility Districts | Murfreesboro, TN | TDEC approved tester training | Not printed | tn.gov |
Sources: TDEC Fleming Training Center, cross-connection control; TDEC Cross Connection Manual
North Carolina: Board approved cross-connection schools
The North Carolina Water Treatment Facility Operators Certification Board issues the Cross-Connection Control certificate. One route to it is completing a cross-connection control school approved by the Board.
NC DEQ lists two approved certification schools that offer the cross-connection school. The certificate is renewed every year, and the renewal costs $30.
| Provider | City | Course | Cost | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NC One Water | Not printed | Board approved cross-connection school | Not printed | deq.nc.gov |
| North Carolina Rural Water Association (NCRWA) | Not printed | Board approved cross-connection school | Not printed | deq.nc.gov |
Sources: NC DEQ, DW operator certification schools; 15A NCAC 18D, operator certification rules
Virginia: Board for Contractors approved backflow schools
Virginia's Board for Contractors keeps a list of approved backflow prevention device worker schools, dated October 6, 2026. To sit the exam, applicants need four years of experience and at least 32 hours of training, or 16 hours with seven or more years of experience. All training must include a wet lab.
The table lists the schools approved for general backflow training. Schools the list marks as approved only for installation training incidental to highway, landscape irrigation and fire sprinkler work are left out. The certification expires two years after issue, and renewal costs $110.
| Provider | City | Course | Cost | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Central Virginia Community College | Lynchburg, VA | Board for Contractors approved backflow school | Not printed | dpor.virginia.gov |
| Associated Builders and Contractors, Virginia Chapter | Richmond, VA | Board for Contractors approved backflow school | Not printed | dpor.virginia.gov |
| Danville Community College, Workforce Development | Danville, VA | Board for Contractors approved backflow school | Not printed | dpor.virginia.gov |
| Backflow Management, Inc. | New Kensington, PA | Board for Contractors approved backflow school | Not printed | dpor.virginia.gov |
| Paul D Camp Community College | Franklin, VA | Board for Contractors approved backflow school | Not printed | dpor.virginia.gov |
| City of Norfolk Utilities Office of Cross Connection Backflow Prevention | Norfolk, VA | Board for Contractors approved backflow school | Not printed | dpor.virginia.gov |
| American Society of Sanitary Engineers | Westlake, OH | Board for Contractors approved backflow school | Not printed | dpor.virginia.gov |
| TREEO Center at the University of Florida | Gainesville, FL | Board for Contractors approved backflow school | Not printed | dpor.virginia.gov |
| Plumbers & Steamfitters Local Number 10 | Richmond, VA | Board for Contractors approved backflow school | Not printed | dpor.virginia.gov |
| Washington Suburban Master Plumbers Association | Damascus, MD | Board for Contractors approved backflow school | Not printed | dpor.virginia.gov |
| JPH Engineering, Inc. (Cross Connection Consulting) | Savannah, GA | Board for Contractors approved backflow school | Not printed | dpor.virginia.gov |
| Maryland Plumbing, Heating, Cooling Contractors Association | Ellicott City, MD | Board for Contractors approved backflow school | Not printed | dpor.virginia.gov |
| Navy Public Works Center | Norfolk, VA | Board for Contractors approved backflow school | Not printed | dpor.virginia.gov |
| Florida Water & Pollution Control Operators Association | Cocoa, FL | Board for Contractors approved backflow school | Not printed | dpor.virginia.gov |
| National Environmental Technology Training Institute | Gainesville, FL | Board for Contractors approved backflow school | Not printed | dpor.virginia.gov |
| Chesapeake Cross Connection Institute | Crownsville, MD | Board for Contractors approved backflow school | Not printed | dpor.virginia.gov |
| Professional Code Training Inc | Bedford, VA | Board for Contractors approved backflow school | Not printed | dpor.virginia.gov |
| PMPV (VAPHCC) | Norfolk, VA | Board for Contractors approved backflow school | Not printed | dpor.virginia.gov |
| Richmond City Public Schools, Adult Evening Technical Center | Richmond, VA | Board for Contractors approved backflow school | Not printed | dpor.virginia.gov |
| Washington, DC Joint Plumbing Apprenticeship Committee | Lanham, MD | Board for Contractors approved backflow school | Not printed | dpor.virginia.gov |
| Roto-Rooter Plumbing School | Jessup, MD | Board for Contractors approved backflow school | Not printed | dpor.virginia.gov |
| Liberty University Technical Studies | Alta Vista, VA | Board for Contractors approved backflow school | Not printed | dpor.virginia.gov |
| Delaware Rural Water Association | Milford, DE | Board for Contractors approved backflow school | Not printed | dpor.virginia.gov |
| Integrated Cross Connection Partners LLC | Frederick, MD | Board for Contractors approved backflow school | Not printed | dpor.virginia.gov |
| Pipe Trades Technologies Inc | Bel Air, MD | Board for Contractors approved backflow school | Not printed | dpor.virginia.gov |
| Krugers Training Academy | New York, NY | Board for Contractors approved backflow school | Not printed | dpor.virginia.gov |
| BAUL Academy of Unique Learning | Mechanicsville, VA | Board for Contractors approved backflow school | Not printed | dpor.virginia.gov |
| Virginia Section American Water Works Association (VA AWWA) | Lynchburg, VA | Board for Contractors approved backflow school | Not printed | dpor.virginia.gov |
| Backflow Prevention Institute | Johns Island, SC | Board for Contractors approved backflow school | Not printed | dpor.virginia.gov |
| Pennsylvania Water Specialties Company | Pittston, PA | Board for Contractors approved backflow school | Not printed | dpor.virginia.gov |
| 2 Day Waterworks LLC | Falls Church, VA | Board for Contractors approved backflow school | Not printed | dpor.virginia.gov |
| Fire Solution Inc | Ashland, VA | Board for Contractors approved backflow school | Not printed | dpor.virginia.gov |
| JATC Norfolk Local 110 | Norfolk, VA | Board for Contractors approved backflow school | Not printed | dpor.virginia.gov |
| American Fire Sprinkler Association, Virginia Chapter | Richmond, VA | Board for Contractors approved backflow school | Not printed | dpor.virginia.gov |
| Backflow Education and Resources, LLC | Midlothian, VA | Board for Contractors approved backflow school | Not printed | dpor.virginia.gov |
Sources: Virginia Board for Contractors, approved backflow schools (list dated 10/06/2026); 18VAC50-30-42, backflow worker exam eligibility; 18VAC50-30-120, renewal
Indiana: IDEM approved 40-hour courses
IDEM's Cross Connection Control and Backflow Prevention Manual (2016 edition) names four organizations approved to certify backflow device inspectors. To become an Indiana licensed tester, attend one of their 40-hour courses and pass the written and oral exams.
Indiana does not accept other states' backflow licenses. The Indiana license does not expire, but testing equipment must be tested and calibrated every year.
| Provider | City | Course | Cost | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| American Backflow Prevention Association | Not printed | 40-hour approved course with written and oral exams | Not printed | in.gov |
| Indiana School of Backflow and Cross Connection | Not printed | 40-hour approved course with written and oral exams | Not printed | in.gov |
| Indiana State Pipe Trades Association | Not printed | 40-hour approved course with written and oral exams | Not printed | in.gov |
| Test Gauge and Backflow Supply | Not printed | 40-hour approved course with written and oral exams | Not printed | in.gov |
Source: IDEM Cross Connection Control and Backflow Prevention Manual
Oregon: OHA approved 5-day tester courses
The Oregon Health Authority requires a 5-day tester course from an approved provider before you apply. The course certificate expires 12 months after you finish it.
OHA lists four approved providers of the tester course and its renewal courses. Certifications expire on December 31 every two years. OHA may grant reciprocity to testers certified in another state with equivalent standards.
| Provider | City | Course | Cost | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Backflow Management, Inc. (BMI) | Portland, OR | 5-day tester course and renewal courses | Not printed | oregon.gov |
| Clackamas Community College | Oregon City, OR | 5-day tester course and renewal courses | Not printed | oregon.gov |
| Northwest Cross Connection Training | Manzanita, OR | 5-day tester course and renewal courses | Not printed | oregon.gov |
| Plumbers Local 290 (members only) | Tualatin, OR | 5-day tester course and renewal courses | Not printed | oregon.gov |
Sources: Oregon Health Authority, approved training; Oregon Health Authority, tester certification
New York: NYSDOH approved certification courses
New York requires an initial certification course from a training provider approved by the Department of Health. The Department lists 12 approved providers with their upcoming initial and renewal course dates.
Certification is valid for three years, and you renew by passing a renewal course before it expires. New York has no reciprocity with any other state.
| Provider | City | Course | Cost | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AAA Backflow Certification of NY LLC | New Hyde Park, NY | NYSDOH approved tester certification courses | Not printed | healthweb-back.health.ny.gov |
| Cross Connection Control Bureau, City of New York UA Plumbers Local 1 Training Center | Long Island City, NY | NYSDOH approved tester certification courses | Not printed | healthweb-back.health.ny.gov |
| Cross Connection Control Foundation of the Niagara Frontier | Webster, NY | NYSDOH approved tester certification courses | Not printed | healthweb-back.health.ny.gov |
| DST-NY | Copiague, NY | NYSDOH approved tester certification courses | Not printed | healthweb-back.health.ny.gov |
| Krugers Training Academy | New York, NY | NYSDOH approved tester certification courses | Not printed | healthweb-back.health.ny.gov |
| New England Water Works Association | Holliston, MA | NYSDOH approved tester certification courses | Not printed | healthweb-back.health.ny.gov |
| NYS Backflow Testers Association | White Plains, NY | NYSDOH approved tester certification courses | Not printed | healthweb-back.health.ny.gov |
| Skybridge Restoration Inc. | Queens, NY | NYSDOH approved tester certification courses | Not printed | healthweb-back.health.ny.gov |
| Southern Tier Cross Connection and Backflow Prevention School | Binghamton, NY | NYSDOH approved tester certification courses | Not printed | healthweb-back.health.ny.gov |
| Specialty Pipeline Services | LaGrange, NY | NYSDOH approved tester certification courses | Not printed | healthweb-back.health.ny.gov |
| Westchester Backflow Prevention School | Peekskill, NY | NYSDOH approved tester certification courses | Not printed | healthweb-back.health.ny.gov |
| Z3 Consultants, Inc. | Poughkeepsie, NY | NYSDOH approved tester certification courses | Not printed | healthweb-back.health.ny.gov |
Sources: NYSDOH, approved backflow tester certification courses (revised July 2026); NYSDOH backflow FAQ; 10 NYCRR 5-1.31; NYSDOH certification procedures
Idaho: Board listed BAT course providers
Idaho's Board of Drinking Water and Wastewater Professionals requires a 32-hour class before licensing and an 8-hour refresher every two years.
DOPL's training links page lists four backflow course providers. BAT & Supply notes that it provides ABPA tester certification and Idaho refresher training.
| Provider | City | Course | Cost | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Northwest Backflow Educators (HR2Inc) | Garden City, ID | BAT course provider | Not printed | dopl.idaho.gov |
| Idaho Rural Water Association | Boise, ID | BAT course provider | Not printed | dopl.idaho.gov |
| BAT & Supply (Backflow Assembly Testing & Supply LLC) | Tetonia, ID | Tester certification (ABPA) and Idaho refresher training | Not printed | dopl.idaho.gov |
| IAPMO Backflow Prevention Institute | Johns Island, SC | BAT course provider | Not printed | dopl.idaho.gov |
Sources: Idaho DOPL, Board of Drinking Water and Wastewater Professionals; Idaho DOPL, training and information links; Idaho DOPL, BAT course approval guidelines; IDAPA 24.05.01
Minnesota: ASSE approved schools
Minnesota's Department of Labor and Industry requires current ASSE 5110 certification for a backflow tester certificate, and links to ASSE's list of approved schools.
Eight schools on that list are in Minnesota and teach the 5110 tester course. ASSE says to contact each school for schedules and pricing. Minnesota certificates are renewed every two years.
| Provider | City | Course | Cost | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MetroTesting, Minnesota | Blaine, MN | ASSE 5110 tester certification school | Not printed | forms.iapmo.org |
| Backflow Prevention Institute, IAPMO, Minnesota | Anoka, MN | ASSE 5110 tester certification school | Not printed | forms.iapmo.org |
| Local 6 JATC | Rochester, MN | ASSE 5110 tester certification school | Not printed | forms.iapmo.org |
| Minneapolis Plumbers JATC, Local 15 | Maple Grove, MN | ASSE 5110 tester certification school | Not printed | forms.iapmo.org |
| Local 417 Sprinkler Fitters JATC | Minneapolis, MN | ASSE 5110 tester certification school | Not printed | forms.iapmo.org |
| Plumbers and Pipefitters Local 11 Training Center | Duluth, MN | ASSE 5110 tester certification school | Not printed | forms.iapmo.org |
| Soderholm Associates, Equip Training | Ramsey, MN | ASSE 5110 tester certification school | Not printed | forms.iapmo.org |
| St Paul JAC 34 | St. Paul, MN | ASSE 5110 tester certification school | Not printed | forms.iapmo.org |
Sources: Minnesota DLI, backflow prevention certification; ASSE International, approved schools; Minnesota Statutes 326B.437
South Carolina: state course and recertification stations
SCDES certifies every tester in South Carolina and runs the four-day tester course itself. Testers certified elsewhere attend a one-day SCDES class; the reciprocity fee is $175.
A tester's license expires every three years. To recertify, contact one of the recertification stations SCDES lists; the proctor sets the dates and costs. Test gauges must be certified or calibrated every year.
| Provider | City | Course | Cost | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SC Department of Environmental Services (state course) | West Columbia, North Charleston and Seneca, SC (2026 classes) | Four-day tester certification course | Not printed | des.sc.gov |
| Zorn Consulting, LLC | Cope, SC | Recertification station (written exam and wet lab) | Set by proctor | des.sc.gov |
| Palmetto Alliance Institute | Oconee, Pickens and Anderson area | Recertification station (written exam and wet lab) | Set by proctor | des.sc.gov |
| Campobello Water (clinics at Inman) | Spartanburg area | Recertification station (written exam and wet lab) | Set by proctor | des.sc.gov |
| City of Columbia | Columbia area | Recertification station (written exam and wet lab) | Set by proctor | des.sc.gov |
| City of Florence | Florence area | Recertification station (written exam and wet lab) | Set by proctor | des.sc.gov |
| Charleston Water System | Charleston area | Recertification station (written exam and wet lab) | Set by proctor | des.sc.gov |
| Greenwood C.P.W. | Greenwood area | Recertification station (written exam and wet lab) | Set by proctor | des.sc.gov |
| Grand Strand Water and Sewer Authority | Myrtle Beach, Conway and Marion areas | Recertification station (written exam and wet lab) | Set by proctor | des.sc.gov |
Sources: SCDES, cross-connection control and backflow prevention; SCDES, tester certification course overview; SCDES reciprocity application; SCDES, recertification stations and study guide
Illinois: ERTC at SIU Edwardsville
Illinois EPA's cross-connection control device inspector (CCCDI) program is taught mainly by the Environmental Resources Training Center at SIU Edwardsville.
The certification course runs four days. ERTC's 2023 schedule listed classes in Edwardsville, Springfield, Joliet, Rockford and Peoria at $575 for 24.0 hours. One and two day refresher courses are also held.
| Provider | City | Course | Cost | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Environmental Resources Training Center, SIU Edwardsville | Edwardsville, IL (classes also in Springfield, Joliet, Rockford, Peoria) | Four-day CCCDI course, 24.0 hours | $575 (2023 schedule) | siue.edu |
Sources: Illinois EPA, cross connection control; SIUE Environmental Resources Training Center, CCCDI certification; SIUE ERTC, CCCDI 2023 course schedule
States without a published course list
Missouri: certification comes from passing ABPA or ASSE written and hands-on exams, and the state certifies you after that. Missouri DNR provides its yearly exam schedule on request.
Florida: there is no state tester license. UF TREEO's five-day tester course is the only FSAWWA accredited program in Florida; its certification lasts two years with a third year of grace.
Georgia: Georgia EPD contracts with the Georgia Association of Water Professionals (GAWP). Every applicant takes a 32-hour class from a GAWP-approved provider, and GAWP publishes the current provider list.
Washington: training is not required to sit the exam, and the Department of Health does not endorse any course, though training is highly recommended. The exam has a computer-based part and a Department practical part.
California: the State Water Board recognizes certifying organizations, not training courses. ABPA, ASSE 5110 and CA-NV AWWA certificates are accepted.
Utah: the Division of Drinking Water's tester page links its own list of certification courses; the exam comes from a third party such as ABPA. A refresher course is optional.
Maryland: the State Board of Plumbing approves 32-hour backflow certification programs. Louisiana: plumbers with a Water Supply Protection Specialist endorsement may test. District of Columbia: DC Water approves independently certified providers.
Sources: Missouri DNR PUB2016; UF TREEO, backflow; UF TREEO, Backflow Prevention Assembly Tester course; Georgia EPD backflow prevention program guidance; Washington Certification Services, BAT program; WAC 246-292; State Water Board, recognized tester certifications (August 26, 2026); State Water Board, tester and specialist certification; Utah Division of Drinking Water, backflow assembly tester; COMAR 09.20.04.01; Louisiana Department of Health, engineering services; DC Water, backflow service providers
Experience and exam bodies
Texas asks for a high school diploma or GED and two years of work experience in an approved area. Georgia asks for six months in plumbing or drinking water distribution. South Carolina's state course has no prerequisites.
Utah names ABPA as an approved third-party exam agency, and Minnesota requires ASSE 5110. Check which certificate your state and your water utility accept before you book a course.
Sources: TCEQ, BPAT education and experience; Georgia EPD guidance; SCDES, tester certification; Utah Division of Drinking Water 2019 program changes; Minnesota DLI, backflow prevention certification
Sources and dates
- TCEQ, BPAT license requirements, read October 8, 2026https://www.tceq.texas.gov/licensing/licenses/bpatlic
- Oregon Health Authority, approved training, read October 8, 2026https://www.oregon.gov/oha/PH/HEALTHYENVIRONMENTS/DRINKINGWATER/CROSSCONNECTION/CERTIFICATION/Pages/training.aspx
- Georgia EPD backflow prevention program guidance, read October 8, 2026https://epd.georgia.gov/document/document/georgia-backflow-prevention-program-guidance-document-final-sept-1-2021pdf/download
- Idaho DOPL, BAT course approval guidelines, read October 8, 2026https://dopl.idaho.gov/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/WWP-BAT-GUIDELINES.pdf
- State Water Board Cross-Connection Control Policy Handbook, read October 8, 2026https://www.waterboards.ca.gov/drinking_water/certlic/drinkingwater/docs/2026/cross-connection-control-policy-handbook-apr-2026.pdf
- Missouri DNR PUB2016, read October 8, 2026https://dnr.mo.gov/document-search/missouri-backflow-prevention-assembly-tester-pub2016/pub2016
- TCEQ RG-478, gauge accuracy, read October 8, 2026https://www.tceq.texas.gov/downloads/drinking-water/plan-technical-review/prevention/rg-478.pdf
- TDEC Cross Connection Manual, read October 8, 2026https://www.tn.gov/content/dam/tn/environment/water/ftc/ccc/tdec_ftc_ccc-manual.pdf
- SCDES, recertification letter, read October 8, 2026https://des.sc.gov/sites/des/files/Documents/BOW/Cross%20Connection%20%26%20Backflow%20Prevention/2025/Recert%20stations%20%26%20%20Study%20Guide%202025%20(1).pdf
- IDEM manual, test equipment, read October 8, 2026https://www.in.gov/idem/cleanwater/files/dw_permits_ccc_backflow_prev_manual.pdf
- Arkansas Department of Health, assembly tester application, read October 8, 2026https://healthy.arkansas.gov/wp-content/uploads/ASSEMBLY-TESTING-APPLICATION-FORM-2026.pdf
- DC Water, backflow service providers, read October 8, 2026https://www.dcwater.com/work-with-us/compliance/backflow-service-providers
- UF TREEO, Backflow Prevention Assembly Tester course, read October 8, 2026https://reg.pwd.aa.ufl.edu/search/publicCourseSearchDetails.do?method=load&courseId=1302833&selectedProgramAreaId=1015917&selectedProgramStreamId=1081253
- IDAPA 24.05.01, read October 8, 2026https://files.dfm.idaho.gov/dfm-admin-website/rules/current/24/240501.pdf
- Illinois EPA, cross connection control, read October 8, 2026https://epa.illinois.gov/topics/drinking-water/field-operations/cross-connection-control.html
- Louisiana Department of Health, engineering services, read October 8, 2026https://ldh.la.gov/bureau-of-engineering-services
- COMAR 09.20.04.01, read October 8, 2026https://regs.maryland.gov/us/md/exec/comar/09.20.04.01
- COMAR 09.20.04.02, read October 8, 2026https://regs.maryland.gov/us/md/exec/comar/09.20.04.02
- Minnesota Statutes 326B.437, read October 8, 2026https://www.revisor.mn.gov/statutes/cite/326B.437
- 10 NYCRR 5-1.31, read October 8, 2026https://regs.health.ny.gov/content/section-5-131-cross-connection-control
- 15A NCAC 18D, annual renewal, read October 8, 2026http://reports.oah.state.nc.us/ncac/title%2015a%20-%20environmental%20quality/chapter%2018%20-%20environmental%20health/subchapter%20d/subchapter%20d%20rules.pdf
- Oregon Health Authority, tester certification, read October 8, 2026https://www.oregon.gov/oha/PH/HEALTHYENVIRONMENTS/DRINKINGWATER/CROSSCONNECTION/CERTIFICATION/Pages/certification.aspx
- SCDES, recertification, read October 8, 2026https://des.sc.gov/programs/bureau-water/drinking-water/cross-connection-control-backflow-prevention
- TDEC Fleming Training Center, Renewal Workshop, read October 8, 2026https://www.tn.gov/environment/program-areas/wr-water-resources/fleming-training-center/ccc.html
- Utah rule R309-305-7, read October 8, 2026https://adminrules.utah.gov/api/public/getHTML/uac-html/edad8cfd-43f6-4592-8e95-7abfad50b864.html
- 18VAC50-30-120, renewal, read October 8, 2026https://law.lis.virginia.gov/admincode/title18/agency50/chapter30/section120/
- WAC 246-292, read October 8, 2026https://app.leg.wa.gov/WAC/default.aspx?cite=246-292&full=true
- TCEQ, BPAT required course for a new license, read October 8, 2026https://www.tceq.texas.gov/licensing/training/AllTrainingProviders
- TCEQ Training Database on the Texas Open Data Portal, course 1200, read October 8, 2026https://data.texas.gov/resource/qurn-xwim.json?course_cd=1200&$limit=500
- Arkansas Department of Health, accredited training programs, read October 8, 2026https://healthy.arkansas.gov/wp-content/uploads/Backflow-Training-Programs-2025.pdf
- NC DEQ, DW operator certification schools, read October 8, 2026https://deq.nc.gov/about/divisions/water-resources/operator-certification/drinking-water-operator-certification/dw-operator-certification-schools
- Virginia Board for Contractors, approved backflow schools (list dated 10/06/2026), read October 8, 2026https://www.dpor.virginia.gov/sites/default/files/boards/Tradesman/New%20Format%20-%20Backflow.pdf
- 18VAC50-30-42, backflow worker exam eligibility, read October 8, 2026https://law.lis.virginia.gov/admincode/title18/agency50/chapter30/section42/
- NYSDOH, approved backflow tester certification courses (revised July 2026), read October 8, 2026https://healthweb-back.health.ny.gov/environmental/water/drinking/cross/courses.htm
- NYSDOH backflow FAQ, read October 8, 2026https://healthweb-back.health.ny.gov/environmental/water/drinking/cross/backflow_faq.htm
- NYSDOH certification procedures, read October 8, 2026https://healthweb-back.health.ny.gov/environmental/water/drinking/cross/backflow_cert_instructions_and_procedures.htm
- Idaho DOPL, Board of Drinking Water and Wastewater Professionals, read October 8, 2026https://dopl.idaho.gov/wwp/
- Idaho DOPL, training and information links, read October 8, 2026https://dopl.idaho.gov/wwp/wwp-training-and-information-links/
- Minnesota DLI, backflow prevention certification, read October 8, 2026https://dli.mn.gov/workers/plumber/backflow-prevention-certification
- ASSE International, approved schools, read October 8, 2026https://forms.iapmo.org/asse/schools/
- SCDES, tester certification course overview, read October 8, 2026https://des.sc.gov/sites/des/files/Documents/BOW/Cross%20Connection%20%26%20Backflow%20Prevention/SC%20DES%20Backflow%20Tester%20course%20overview.pdf
- SCDES reciprocity application, read October 8, 2026https://des.sc.gov/sites/des/files/Documents/BOW/Cross%20Connection%20%26%20Backflow%20Prevention/2025/SCDES%20Backflow%20Tester%20%20Lisence%20Appl_2025.pdf
- SIUE Environmental Resources Training Center, CCCDI certification, read October 8, 2026https://www.siue.edu/ertc/cross-connection-control-device-inspector/
- SIUE ERTC, CCCDI 2023 course schedule, read October 8, 2026https://www.siue.edu/ertc/cross-connection-control-device-inspector/pdf/CCCDIFlyer2023.pdf
- UF TREEO, backflow, read October 8, 2026https://treeo.ufl.edu/backflow/
- Washington Certification Services, BAT program, read October 8, 2026https://wcs.greenriver.edu/bat/employers.shtm
- State Water Board, recognized tester certifications (August 26, 2026), read October 8, 2026https://www.waterboards.ca.gov/drinking_water/certlic/drinkingwater/docs/2025/testers.pdf
- State Water Board, tester and specialist certification, read October 8, 2026https://www.waterboards.ca.gov/drinking_water/certlic/drinkingwater/specialists-certification.html
- Utah Division of Drinking Water, backflow assembly tester, read October 8, 2026https://deq.utah.gov/ddw/backflow-assembly-tester
- Utah Division of Drinking Water 2019 program changes, read October 8, 2026https://deq.utah.gov/ddw/ccc-rule-updates
Common questions
How long is a backflow certification course?
It depends on the state. Texas and Indiana require 40-hour courses, Oregon a 5-day course, Georgia, Idaho and Maryland 32 hours, South Carolina four days and Tennessee's state Basic Workshop 3 days. California requires at least 30 hours over at least four days.
How much does backflow tester certification cost?
Course prices are set by each provider, and most state lists do not print them. Tennessee's Fleming Training Center charges $335 for its 3-day basic course and $170 for renewal. Texas charges a $111 license fee on top of the course.
How often do I renew a backflow tester certification?
Washington and North Carolina renew every year. Oregon, Virginia, Minnesota, Idaho and Arkansas run on two-year cycles. Texas, Tennessee, Georgia, New York, South Carolina, Missouri and Utah certificates last three years. Indiana's license does not expire.
What is the difference between ASSE and ABPA certification?
Both are organizations that certify testers by written and hands-on exam. Missouri accepts either. Minnesota requires ASSE 5110. Utah uses ABPA as its third-party exam. California accepts ABPA, ASSE 5110 and CA-NV AWWA.
Can I use my backflow certification in another state?
Often not. New York has no reciprocity with any state, Indiana does not recognize other states' licenses, and South Carolina requires a one-day SCDES class. Oregon may grant reciprocity if your state's standards are equivalent.
Do I need to calibrate my backflow test kit?
Yes. Texas, Tennessee, South Carolina and Indiana require test gauges or kits to be tested or calibrated every year, and California's exam covers checking accuracy at least once a year.
Do I need experience before taking a backflow course?
Some states require it. Texas asks for a high school diploma and two years of work experience, Georgia six months in plumbing or water distribution, and Virginia four years (or seven years with a shorter course). South Carolina's course has no prerequisites.