Kansas Water & Wastewater Operator Certification

Who regulates water operators in Kansas?

Kansas Department of Health and Environment, Water and Wastewater Operator Certification Program administers the credentials covered here.

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Certification types

• Water treatment
• water distribution
• and wastewater treatment/operator certification

Certification levels / grades / classes

Small System and Classes I-IV for both water-supply systems and wastewater-treatment facilities. Kansas has no mandatory distribution, collection, or laboratory personnel certification program.

Initial certification requirements

Submit the KDHE exam application at least two weeks before testing, meet education/experience/point eligibility, and pass the written examination with at least 70%. Examinations are offered at least twice yearly; a candidate may take the same level at most three times per calendar year.

Exam information

Submit the KDHE exam application at least two weeks before testing, meet education/experience/point eligibility, and pass the written examination with at least 70%. Examinations are offered at least twice yearly; a candidate may take the same level at most three times per calendar year.

Renewal cycle

Two years from issuance; renewal notice/application is mailed about 45 days before expiration. Reinstatement is available within two years; after that the operator must reapply and retest.

Continuing-education requirements

Small System: 5 approved hours per two-year term. Classes I-IV: 10 approved hours per two-year term.

Reciprocity / out-of-state operators

Available for both water and wastewater by KDHE request; applicant documents the out-of-state exam, experience, education/training, renewal CE, current certificates, and Kansas employer. K.A.R. 28-16-35 identifies a one-year reciprocity certificate.

Water vs. wastewater differences

Water treatment, water distribution, and wastewater treatment/operator certification.