Drinking Water Operator Certification Last updated 02/28/2025

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Fees

License Fee Description Exemptions
$0.00
None

Description

The Department issues certification cards on a 2-year certification cycle. Certifications expire on December 31st every two years based upon the first letter in the last name of the individual. Individuals with a last name beginning with A-K expire in even numbered years, and individuals with last names beginning with L-Z expire in odd numbered years.

Duration

2 years

Renewal Information

Renewal notices are mailed out in October of each year. Operators must submit renewal information and payment by December 31st.

CEUs are not submitted with renewal applications. CEUs are audited during the Spring. Operators will receive notice if they are being audited.

Duplicate License Requirements

None

Processing Time

Processing Time Description
1 Month

Prerequisites and Requirements

Prerequisites

1. A high school diploma (a transcript is acceptable), GED, Associate degree, Bachelor’s degree, Master’s degree, or PhD.

2. Minimum of one year of experience directly related to the certification type for which the applicant is applying. The amount of experience depends on what level of certification you are applying for.
Note: "One year" is defined as "equivalent to 12 months" full time, with 100% of that time spent on activities directly related to the certificate type for which the applicant is applying.

Required Documentation

None

Examination Information

Applicants for any level of water treatment or water distribution certification are required to take and pass the 100 multiple-choice Association of Boards of Certification exam.

Score required to pass exam: 70% or above.

Note: Applicants cannot take the same exam more than twice in any 12-month period.

Continuing Education Requirements

Operators must successfully complete 2.0 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) every two years.

Bonding Requirements

None

Insurance Requirements

None

Additional Information

Other Information

For more information visit the website www.healthoregon.org/opcert

Statutes, Administrative Rules, Ordinances

Other Detail Information

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