Becoming a certified backflow tester in Oregon
OAR 333-061-0072(5) and (6): pass an OHA approved tester course (five days, per OHA) with at least 70 percent on the written exam and 90 percent on the physical performance exam, then apply within 12 months with proof of high school graduation or a GED.
Getting certified in Oregon
OAR 333-061-0072(7): last names starting A to K expire in even numbered years, L to Z in odd numbered years. Testers may only test with a current certification.
OAR 333-061-0072(7)(e) to (g): renew with a tester renewal or initial course taken within the two years before expiry plus yearly test gauge calibration reports. Renewal is accepted without a reinstatement fee until January 31; a tester lapsed a full year must reapply as new.
OAR 333-061-0072(9): initial certification $195 and renewal $195 (each two years), reciprocity review $35, reinstatement $50. Initial fees may be prorated. Testers certified in another state may apply by reciprocity.
OHA: Oregon licensed plumbers and journeymen are not required to hold backflow tester certification, but OHA strongly encourages it because many water systems require it before accepting test reports.
Sources: Certification requires an approved course with written and hands on exams; Licensed plumbers do not need the certificate, but many water systems ask for it
Who may test in Oregon
OAR 333-061-0072(1) and (2): field tests may be done only by testers certified by the Oregon Health Authority (OHA), or by journeyman or apprentice plumbers who have completed an approved backflow tester course.
OHA: a tester who tests for a fee, or the company the tester works for, must hold a Construction Contractors Board (CCB) or Landscape Contractors Board (LCB) license.
Sources: Only OHA certified testers and journeyman or apprentice plumbers may test; Testers who charge for testing need a contractor license
Approved training 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
Common questions
Who certifies backflow testers in Oregon?
The Oregon Health Authority certifies backflow assembly testers after an approved course with written and hands-on exams. Certificates last two years.