Wastewater Operator Certification Program



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The Wastewater Operator Certification program (WWOCP) administers Wastewater Treatment Plant Certification examinations, certifications (grades I to V), and certification renewals. Additionally, the WWOCP classifies Wastewater Treatment Plants. Currently, there are approximately 6,000 active certified wastewater treatment plant operators. Since 1972, the State Water Board examines and certifies wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) operators for competency to operate WWTPs. Since 1994, the State Water Board has registered contract operators to operate WWTPs. As of April 2013, all classified privately owned Wastewater Treatment Plants must have certified wastewater treatment plant operators and now have the same requirements as publically owned WWTPs.


Latest Information


If you have questions about the Wastewater Operator Certification Program (WWOCP), contact us.

If you have questions about the Drinking Water Operator Certification Program (DWOCP), view the Drinking Water Treatment & Distribution System Operators page.

Upcoming Events

Wastewater Operators

Operator Certification Information System (OCIS)
(Access your file in our database!)

Wastewater Operator Certificate Renewals
(Renewal is very important; as it is illegal to work as an operator with an expired certificate.)

Wastewater Operator Online Payments



Step One: Online Payment Form

Step Two: Online Payment

Disclosure: By clicking on the above "Online Payment" link, you will be redirected to the State’s data collector website, First Data.

First Data is not under the control of the State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) and the SWRCB is NOT responsible for the contents or links contained in their website.

The SWRCB recommends that you view. First Data's security and confidentiality statements.

Online Quick Payment Instruction
Online Payments User Guide
Online Payments FAQ

Contact Information

  • Mailing Address:
    Wastewater Operator Certification
    State Water Resources Control Board
    P.O. Box 944212
    Sacramento, CA 94244-2120

    Physical Address
    State Water Resources Control Board
    Wastewater Operator Certification Program
    1001 "I" Street, 17th Floor
    Sacramento, CA 95814

    Telephone: (916) 341-5819
    Fax: (916) 341-5734
    Email: wwopcertprogram@waterboards.ca.gov



  (Page last updated 03/26/2024)