Becoming a certified backflow tester in Florida
UF TREEO (University of Florida) Backflow Prevention Assembly Tester Training and Certification. This is the FSAWWA-endorsed program, not a state-agency licence.
Getting certified in Florida
Contact hours listed for each scheduled session of the initial tester course.
Initial TREEO tester certification requires passing both exams.
After three years the initial course must be retaken.
Certifying body is UF TREEO, endorsed by Florida Section AWWA (FSAWWA). Utilities may accept other providers; TREEO does not recognize other providers' certificates.
Recertification course (about two days) must be taken from TREEO to keep TREEO status.
Sources: UF TREEO tester course is five days; UF TREEO says its program is the only FSAWWA accredited tester program in Florida; TREEO recertification is every two years
Who may test in Florida
State rule does not name a state tester certification; the CWS's written plan must specify qualifications for testers.
UF TREEO FAQ: no prerequisite to take the course or to test; check with your utility whether it requires a plumbing licence. Secondary statement from the training provider, not a statute.
Statement made by UF TREEO's FAQ about Florida Statutes chapter 489; statute text itself not independently fetched here. Applies to install and repair, not testing.
Statement made by UF TREEO's FAQ about Florida Statutes chapter 633; statute text itself not independently fetched here.
Sources: Rule leaves tester qualifications to each water system's policy; UF TREEO says there is no state prerequisite to test backflow assemblies
Common questions
Who certifies backflow testers in Florida?
UF TREEO (University of Florida) Backflow Prevention Assembly Tester Training and Certification. This is the FSAWWA-endorsed program, not a state-agency licence.