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Operator Requirements

Small Water System Requirements

Small water systems need an operator with a small water system (SWS) operator certification. You can apply for a SWS operator certification after attending our free 1-day training and completing the exam with a passing score of 70%. Once you complete the course and pass the exam you will need to submit a SWS operator application along with your course completion certificate, and exam certificate. Those applying for certification after 2020 must also include a copy of their high school diploma/transcripts, GED, or college diploma/transcripts.

No fees are associated with the SWS operator certification. 

To renew a SWS operator certification, the operator must complete a free SWS training course (see below) every 3 years, and submit a new PDF iconSWS operator application with the course completion certificate. No other courses are required or can be substituted for these requirements. You only need to take and pass the SWS exam once as long as you don't let your SWS certification expire.  

An operator who is certified at Levels 1-4 can be the operator for a small water system. The system still needs to complete a new SWS operator application form every 3 years and submit it to the State. 

Inform Drinking Water Services of any changes within 30 days.