Chapter 30. Waterworks and Wastewater Works Operators Licensing Regulations
Part I
Definitions
18VAC160-30-10. Definitions.
A. Section 54.1-2300 of the Code of Virginia provides definitions of the following terms and phrases as used in this chapter:
"Board"
"Operator"
"Owner"
"Wastewater works"
"Waterworks"
B. The following words, terms, and phrases when used in this chapter have the following meanings unless the context clearly indicates otherwise:
"Address of record" means the address designated by the licensee to receive notices and correspondence from the board.
"Applicant" means an individual who has submitted an application for licensure.
"Application" means a completed, board-prescribed form submitted with the appropriate fee and other required documentation.
"Category" means a profession under the board's purview, which includes waterworks and wastewater works as applicable to the licensure of waterworks and wastewater works operators.
"Classification" means the division within each category of license as it relates to the classified facility. Class 1 represents the highest classification for each category of license.
"Contact hour" means 50 minutes of participation in a structured training activity.
"Department" means the Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation.
"DEQ" means the Department of Environmental Quality.
"Direct supervision" means being immediately available and fully responsible for the provision of waterworks and wastewater works operation regulated pursuant to Chapter 23 (§ 54.1-2300 et seq.) of Title 54.1 of the Code of Virginia and this chapter.
"Direct supervisor" means a licensed waterworks or wastewater works operator who assumes the responsibility of direct supervision.
"Licensee" means an individual holding a valid license issued by the board.
"Licensure" means a method of regulation whereby the Commonwealth, through the issuance of a license, authorizes a person possessing the character and minimum skills to engage in the practice of a profession or occupation that is unlawful to practice without such license.
"Maintenance" or "maintain" means performing adjustments to equipment and controls and in-kind replacement and cleaning of normal wear and tear parts such as light bulbs, fuses, filters, pumps, motors, or other like components.
"Master alternative onsite sewage system operator" means an individual licensed by the board who possesses the minimum skills and competency to operate and maintain conventional and alternative onsite sewage systems.
"Operate" means the act of (i) placing into or taking out of service a unit process or (ii) making or causing adjustments in the operation of a unit process at a waterworks or wastewater works.
"Renewal" means the process and requirements for periodically approving the continuance of a license.
"Training credit" means a unit of board-approved training or formal education completed by an individual that may be used to substitute for experience when applying for a license.
"VDH" means the Virginia Department of Health.
Statutory Authority
§§ 54.1-201 and 54.1-2301 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 11, eff. April 1, 2017; amended, Virginia Register Volume 42, Issue 8, eff. January 16, 2026.
Part II
Entry
18VAC160-30-20. Application procedures.
A. All applicants seeking licensure will submit an application with the appropriate fee specified in 18VAC160-30-40. Application will be made on forms provided by the board or its agent.
1. By submitting the application to the department, the applicant certifies that the applicant has read and understands the applicable statutes and the board's regulations.
2. The receipt of an application and the deposit of fees by the board does not indicate approval of the application by the board.
B. The board may make further inquiries and investigations with respect to the applicant's qualifications to confirm or amplify information supplied. All applications must be completed in accordance with the instructions contained in this chapter and on the application. Applications will not be considered complete until all required documents are received by the board. No applicant will be permitted to sit for the applicable board-approved examination until the application is complete and approved.
C. The applicant will be notified within 30 days of the board's receipt of an initial application if the application is incomplete. An individual who fails to complete the application process within 12 months of receipt of the application in the board's office must submit a new application. An applicant has 24 months from approval of the application to pass the board-approved examination. Failure to pass the board-approved examination within 24 months of approval will result in the applicant being required to submit a new application to be considered for licensure.
D. The applicant must immediately report all changes in information supplied with the application, if applicable, prior to issuance of the license or expiration of the application or examination period.
Statutory Authority
§§ 54.1-201 and 54.1-2301 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 11, eff. April 1, 2017; amended, Virginia Register Volume 42, Issue 8, eff. January 16, 2026.
18VAC160-30-30. General fee requirements.
All fees are nonrefundable and will not be prorated. The date on which the fee is received by the department or the department's agent will determine whether the fee is on time.
Statutory Authority
§§ 54.1-201 and 54.1-2301 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 11, eff. April 1, 2017; amended, Virginia Register Volume 42, Issue 8, eff. January 16, 2026.
18VAC160-30-40. Fee schedule.
Fees for a waterworks operator or a wastewater works operator license are as provided in this section.
Fee Type | Fee Amount | When Due |
Initial application (for each profession, class, and category of license) | $100 | With application |
Renewal (for each profession, class, and category of license) | $80 | With renewal application |
Reinstatement (for each profession, class, and category of license) | $105 (renewal fee + $25 reinstatement fee) | With reinstatement application |
Statutory Authority
§§ 54.1-113 and 54.1-201 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 11, eff. April 1, 2017; amended, Virginia Register Volume 34, Issue 7, eff. January 1, 2018; Volume 42, Issue 8, eff. January 16, 2026.
18VAC160-30-50. Examination fee.
The fees for all examinations are subject to charges to the department by an outside vendor based on a contract entered into in compliance with the Virginia Public Procurement Act (§ 2.2-4300 et seq. of the Code of Virginia). Fees may be adjusted and charged to the candidate in accordance with this contract.
Statutory Authority
§§ 54.1-201 and 54.1-2301 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 11, eff. April 1, 2017; amended, Virginia Register Volume 42, Issue 8, eff. January 16, 2026.
18VAC160-30-60. General requirements for licensure.
A. In addition to the specific qualifications for each category and classification of licensure, each applicant for licensure must meet the requirements provided in this section.
B. The applicant must be at least 18 years of age.
C. The applicant must provide an address, which will serve as the address of record. A post office box is only acceptable as the address of record when a physical address is also provided.
D. In accordance with § 54.1-204 of the Code of Virginia, each applicant must disclose the following information.
1. All felony convictions that occurred within 20 years of the date of application.
2. All misdemeanor convictions involving lying, cheating, or stealing, except marijuana convictions, that occurred within three years of the date of application.
The board, in its discretion, may deny licensure to any applicant in accordance with § 54.1-204 of the Code of Virginia. The applicant has the right to request further review of any such action by the board under the Administrative Process Act (§ 2.2-4000 et. seq. of the Code of Virginia).
E. The applicant must report any action taken by any board or administrative body in any jurisdiction against a professional or occupational license, certification, or registration issued to the applicant, to include any suspension, revocation, or surrender of a license, certification, or registration, imposition of a monetary penalty, or requirement to take remedial education or other corrective action. The board, in its discretion, may deny licensure to any applicant for any prior action taken by any board or administrative body in any jurisdiction. The applicant has the right to request further review of any such action by the board under the Administrative Process Act.
F. The applicant for licensure must be in compliance with the standards of conduct and practice set forth in Part VI (18VAC160-30-290 et seq.) of this chapter at the time of application, while the application is under review by the board, and at all times when the license is in effect.
Statutory Authority
§§ 54.1-201 and 54.1-2301 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 11, eff. April 1, 2017; amended, Virginia Register Volume 38, Issue 6, eff. December 8, 2021; Volume 42, Issue 8, eff. January 16, 2026.
18VAC160-30-70. Examination procedures and conduct.
A. Upon approval of the application, the board will notify the applicant of the applicant's eligibility to take the applicable examination.
B. An applicant who does not receive a passing score within 24 months after the date of approval of the application by the board to sit for the examination must submit a new application and meet the entry requirements in effect at the time of submittal of the new application.
C. The applicant must follow all rules established by the board with regard to conduct at the examination. Such rules include all written instructions communicated prior to the examination date and all instructions communicated at the site on the date of examination. Failure to comply with all rules established by the board and the testing organization with regard to conduct at the examination may be grounds for denial of the application or voiding of examination scores.
D. The passing examination score received by an applicant for the category and class of license for which the applicant has applied is valid for a period of 10 years from the date of the examination.
Statutory Authority
§§ 54.1-201 and 54.1-2301 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 11, eff. April 1, 2017; amended, Virginia Register Volume 42, Issue 8, eff. January 16, 2026.
18VAC160-30-80. Individuals certified or licensed in another jurisdiction.
An applicant holding an active, current license or certificate in another jurisdiction who meets the requirements of this chapter, including having equivalent experience and education, must pass a board-approved examination to become licensed.
Statutory Authority
§§ 54.1-201 and 54.1-2301 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 11, eff. April 1, 2017; amended, Virginia Register Volume 42, Issue 8, eff. January 16, 2026.
18VAC160-30-90. License required.
A. No individual will operate a waterworks or wastewater works without possessing a valid category of license issued by the board in a classification equal to or greater than the classification of the applicable waterworks or wastewater works.
B. Provisional licensure alone will not authorize an individual to operate a classified waterworks or wastewater works facility.
Statutory Authority
§§ 54.1-201 and 54.1-2301 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 11, eff. April 1, 2017; amended, Virginia Register Volume 42, Issue 8, eff. January 16, 2026.
18VAC160-30-95. Qualifying experience.
A. Experience used to qualify for licensure must be obtained under the direct supervision of an operator holding a valid license of the same category and of a classification equal to or higher than the classification of the waterworks or wastewater works at which the experience was gained.
B. The direct supervisor must certify the applicant's experience on the application as accurate and relevant to the classification and category of license for which licensure is sought. In the event that a licensed operator is not available to certify the experience of the applicant, the experience may be certified by a representative of the facility owner with first-hand knowledge of the applicant's experience.
C. Experience operating and maintaining water distribution systems will only be considered for Class 5 or Class 6 waterworks operator license applicants.
D. Experience limited solely to nonoperating duties will not be counted as experience as an operator or an operator-in-training.
E. The board will accept an applicant's experience obtained in a previously unclassified wastewater treatment facility that has recently been classified as requiring a licensed Class 3 or Class 4 operator, provided that (i) the application includes verification from the appropriate DEQ regional office that the operator license requirement is a new requirement and (ii) the applicant's experience is verified by the owner of the facility.
Statutory Authority
§§ 54.1-201 and 54.1-2301 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 42, Issue 8, eff. January 16, 2026.
18VAC160-30-100. Full-time experience or equivalent.
For the purposes of this part, experience requirements are expressed in terms of calendar periods of full-time employment as an operator or as an operator-in-training at a waterworks or wastewater works in the same category for which licensure is sought.
1. A year of full-time employment is defined as a minimum of 1,760 hours during a 12-month period or a minimum of 220 workdays in a 12-month period. A workday is defined as attendance at a waterworks or wastewater works to the extent required for proper operation. More than 1,760 hours or 220 workdays during a 12-month period will not be considered as more than one year of full-time employment.
2. Partial credit may be given for actual hours of work experience if the applicant works as an operator or as an operator-in-training less than full time.
Statutory Authority
§§ 54.1-201 and 54.1-2301 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 11, eff. April 1, 2017; amended, Virginia Register Volume 42, Issue 8, eff. January 16, 2026.
18VAC160-30-110. Qualifications for examination approval.
An applicant for licensure as a waterworks or wastewater works operator must furnish acceptable documentation that one of the following qualifications has been met.
TABLE 1 | |||||
Classes | Education Required | Current License | Minimum Experience | Facility Type | Experience with Substitutions |
Class 6 | High school diploma or equivalent | N/A | Three months | Class 6 or higher facility | N/A |
No high school diploma or equivalent | N/A | Six months | Class 6 or higher facility | N/A | |
Class 5 | High school diploma or equivalent | N/A | Three months | Class 5 or higher facility | N/A |
No high school diploma or equivalent | N/A | Six months | Class 5 or higher facility | N/A | |
Class 4 | High school diploma or equivalent | N/A | Six months | Class 4 or higher facility | N/A |
No high school diploma or equivalent | N/A | One year | Class 4 or higher facility | Six months | |
Class 3 | Bachelor's, master's, or associate's degree | N/A | Six months | Class 4 or higher facility | Three months |
High school diploma or equivalent | N/A | One year | Class 4 or higher facility | Six months | |
No high school diploma or equivalent | N/A | One and one-half years | Class 4 or higher facility | Nine months | |
Class 2 | Bachelor's, master's, or associate's degree | N/A | One year | Class 3 or higher facility | Six months |
High school diploma or equivalent | N/A | Two years | Class 3 or higher facility | One year | |
No High school diploma or equivalent | Class 3 license | Three years | Class 3 or higher facility | One and one-half years | |
Class 1 | Bachelor's, master's, or associate's degree | Class 2 license | One and one-half years | Class 2 or higher facility | Nine months |
High school diploma or equivalent | Class 2 license | Three years | Class 2 or higher facility | One and one-half years | |
No high school diploma or equivalent | Class 2 license | Four years | Class 2 or higher facility | Two years | |
Where applicable, the current license held, minimum experience, and the facility type must coincide with the category of license for which the application is being submitted. | |||||
Statutory Authority
§§ 54.1-201 and 54.1-2301 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 11, eff. April 1, 2017; amended, Virginia Register Volume 42, Issue 8, eff. January 16, 2026.
18VAC160-30-120. Provisional licensure for nonclassified facility operation.
An applicant for licensure as a provisional waterworks or wastewater works operator must furnish acceptable documentation of having met all of the requirements of 18VAC160-30-110, except that the experience requirement may be met through experience gained as an operator or operator-in-training of a nonclassified facility. Such experience must be gained under the following conditions:
1. The experience is obtained at a nonclassified facility that is comparable in size and in treatment process as described in 18VAC160-30-360 and 18VAC160-30-370, as applicable.
2. The experience is obtained while performing nonclassified facility operation duties that provide experience comparable to that obtained at a classified facility. Experience operating and maintaining water distribution systems will only be considered for a Class 5 or Class 6 provisional waterworks operator license. Experience limited solely to nonoperating duties will not be counted as experience as a provisional operator or operator-in-training.
3. Any individual holding a provisional license may apply for licensure by submitting evidence of having met 50% of the experience required by 18VAC160-30-110 and submitting the appropriate application.
Statutory Authority
§§ 54.1-201 and 54.1-2301 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 11, eff. April 1, 2017; amended, Virginia Register Volume 42, Issue 8, eff. January 16, 2026.
18VAC160-30-130. Experience substitutions.
A. Experience obtained as a licensed alternative onsite sewage system operator before April 1, 2017, or a master alternative onsite sewage system operator may be substituted for the Class 4 wastewater works operator-in-training experience requirements.
B. 18VAC160-30-110 provides the maximum experience substitutions that may be applied for each applicable class of license.
1. Experience gained in either waterworks or wastewater works operations may be substituted for up to 50% of the required experience in the alternate category so long as the experience was gained in an equivalent or higher class of facility.
2. Education may substitute for part of the required experience in the category of license applied for at a rate of one month of experience credit for each semester hour of college credit. Coursework must be relevant to the category and classification of the license sought. The college credit must be from an accredited college or university that is approved or accredited by a regional or national accreditation association or an accreditation agency that is recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Education.
3. Board-approved waterworks or wastewater works operator training courses may be utilized for experience at a rate of one month experience for each training credit approved by the board.
C. Substitutions may not exceed 50% of the total experience required for licensure.
Statutory Authority
§§ 54.1-201 and 54.1-2301 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 11, eff. April 1, 2017; amended, Virginia Register Volume 42, Issue 8, eff. January 16, 2026.
18VAC160-30-140. Education.
A. Applicants seeking to qualify for licensure based on completion of an associate's, bachelor's, or master's degree must submit a transcript from the school where the applicable degree was obtained. Only degrees from an accredited college or university that is approved or accredited by a regional or national accreditation association or an accrediting agency that is recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Education will be considered.
B. The following degrees will be considered to qualify in accordance with 18VAC160-30-110:
1. Bachelor's or master's degree in engineering or engineering technology in a related physical, biological, environmental, or chemical science;
2. Bachelor's degree in a related physical, biological, environmental, or chemical science that includes a minimum 32 semester credit hours in any combination of science and math;
3. Master's degree in a related physical, biological, environmental, or chemical science and a bachelor's degree in any major such that the combined degrees include a minimum 32 semester credit hours in any combination of science and math; or
4. Associate's degree in waterworks, in wastewater works, or in a related physical, biological, environmental, or chemical science that includes a minimum of 16 credit hours in any combination of science and math.
C. Formal education used to meet a specific education requirement for license entry cannot also be used as a training credit for experience substitution.
Statutory Authority
§§ 54.1-201 and 54.1-2301 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 11, eff. April 1, 2017; amended, Virginia Register Volume 42, Issue 8, eff. January 16, 2026.
Part III
Renewal and Reinstatement
18VAC160-30-150. Expiration and renewal.
A. Licenses for waterworks operators will expire on the last day of February of each odd-numbered year. Licenses for wastewater works operators will expire on the last day of February of each even-numbered year.
B. Prior to the license expiration date, the board will send a renewal notice to the licensee's address of record. The licensee must return to the board a renewal notice and the applicable renewal fee.
C. By submitting the renewal or reinstatement fee, the licensee is certifying continued compliance with the Standards of Practice and Conduct (Part VI (18VAC160-30-290 et seq.)) of this chapter, as established by the board. In addition, by submitting the renewal or reinstatement fee, licensees are certifying compliance with the continuing professional education requirements of this chapter.
Statutory Authority
§§ 54.1-201 and 54.1-2301 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 11, eff. April 1, 2017; amended, Virginia Register Volume 42, Issue 8, eff. January 16, 2026.
18VAC160-30-160. Reinstatement.
A. If all of the requirements for renewal of the license as specified in 18VAC160-30-150 are not completed within 30 days of the license expiration date, a reinstatement fee is required as established in 18VAC160-30-40.
B. A license may be reinstated for up to 24 months following the expiration date of the license. An individual who fails to reinstate the license within 24 months after the expiration date must apply for a new license and meet entry requirements in effect at the time of the submittal of the new application.
C. Any regulated activity conducted subsequent to the license expiration date may constitute unlicensed activity and be subject to the prosecution under Chapter 1 (§ 54.1-100 et seq.) of Title 54.1 of the Code of Virginia.
Statutory Authority
§§ 54.1-201 and 54.1-2301 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 11, eff. April 1, 2017; amended, Virginia Register Volume 42, Issue 8, eff. January 16, 2026.
18VAC160-30-170. Status of license during period prior to reinstatement.
A licensee who reinstates a license will be subject to all laws and regulations as if the licensee had been continuously licensed without interruption. The licensee will remain under and be subject to the disciplinary authority of the board during this entire period.
Statutory Authority
§§ 54.1-201 and 54.1-2301 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 11, eff. April 1, 2017; amended, Virginia Register Volume 42, Issue 8, eff. January 16, 2026.
18VAC160-30-180. Board discretion to deny renewal or reinstatement.
A. The board may deny renewal or reinstatement of a license for the same reasons as the board may refuse initial licensure or discipline a licensee. The licensee has the right to request further review of any such action by the board under the Administrative Process Act (§ 2.2-4000 et seq. of the Code of Virginia).
B. The board may deny renewal or reinstatement of a license if the licensee has been subject to a disciplinary proceeding and has not met the terms of an agreement for licensure, has not satisfied all sanctions, or has not fully paid monetary penalties and costs imposed by the board.
Statutory Authority
§§ 54.1-201 and 54.1-2301 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 11, eff. April 1, 2017; amended, Virginia Register Volume 42, Issue 8, eff. January 16, 2026.
Part IV
Continuing Professional Education
18VAC160-30-190. Continuing professional education.
A. Each licensee must have completed the following number of continuing professional education (CPE) contact hours during each renewal cycle. CPE provisions do not apply for the renewal of licenses that were held for less than two years on the date of expiration.
1. Class 1, Class 2, and Class 3 waterworks and wastewater works operators must obtain a minimum of 18 contact hours.
2. Class 4 waterworks and wastewater works operators must obtain a minimum of 16 contact hours.
3. Class 5 waterworks operators must obtain a minimum of six contact hours.
4. Class 6 waterworks operators must obtain a minimum of four contact hours.
B. The licensee may request additional time to meet the CPE requirement. However, CPE contact hours completed during a current licensing renewal cycle to satisfy the CPE requirements of the preceding licensing renewal cycle will be valid only for that preceding license renewal cycle and will not be accepted for any subsequent renewal cycles. The grant of any request for additional time to meet the CPE requirement is at the discretion of the board.
C. The licensee will not receive CPE credit for completing the same continuing education course with the same content more than once during a license renewal cycle.
D. A licensee may receive CPE credit for teaching a course that otherwise meets the requirements of this chapter; however, additional credit will not be given for subsequent offerings of a course or activity with the same content within the same renewal cycle. In addition, a licensee may receive four hours of CPE no more than once during a single renewal cycle for the initial development or substantial updating of a CPE course.
E. Safety subjects will not count for more than 25% of the total required CPE hours.
Statutory Authority
§§ 54.1-201 and 54.1-2301 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 11, eff. April 1, 2017; amended, Virginia Register Volume 42, Issue 8, eff. January 16, 2026.
18VAC160-30-200. CPE subject matter for waterworks operators.
A. The following course topics will be accepted for CPE credit for waterworks operators:
1. Waterworks operations;
2. Monitoring, evaluating, and adjusting treatment processes and systems, including technology;
3. Operating and maintaining equipment;
4. Security and safety procedures;
5. General science and mathematical principles;
6. Administrative processes and procedures applicable to licensure; and
7. Laws and regulations applicable to the profession.
B. Of the total 18 hours required, a minimum of four contact hours pertaining to utility management is required of Class 1 and Class 2 waterworks operators.
Statutory Authority
§§ 54.1-201 and 54.1-2301 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 11, eff. April 1, 2017; amended, Virginia Register Volume 42, Issue 8, eff. January 16, 2026.
18VAC160-30-210. CPE subject matter for wastewater works operators.
A. The following course topics will be accepted for CPE credit for wastewater works operators:
1. Wastewater works operations;
2. Monitoring, evaluating, and adjusting treatment processes and systems, including technology;
3. Operating and maintaining equipment;
4. Security and safety procedures;
5. General science and mathematical principles;
6. Administrative processes and procedures applicable to licensure; and
7. Laws and regulations applicable to the profession.
B. Of the total 18 hours required, a minimum of four contact hours pertaining to utility management is required of Class 1 and Class 2 wastewater works operators.
Statutory Authority
§§ 54.1-201 and 54.1-2301 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 11, eff. April 1, 2017; amended, Virginia Register Volume 42, Issue 8, eff. January 16, 2026.
18VAC160-30-220. Use of training credits and formal education for CPE credit.
Any course approved by the board for substitution as training credits or formal education semester hours, as provided for in Part V (18VAC160-30-240 et seq.) of this chapter, will also be acceptable on an hour-for-hour basis for CPE contact hours. One semester hour of college credit equals 15 CPE contact hours.
Statutory Authority
§§ 54.1-201 and 54.1-2301 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 11, eff. April 1, 2017; amended, Virginia Register Volume 42, Issue 8, eff. January 16, 2026.
18VAC160-30-230. Maintenance of CPE.
A. For a period of at least two years following the end of the license renewal cycle for which the CPE was taken, the following evidence must be maintained to document completion of the required hours of CPE:
1. Evidence of completion of a structured training activity, which must consist of the name, address, and contact information of the sponsor;
2. The dates the licensee participated in the training;
3. Description of the subject matter presented; and
4. A statement from the sponsor verifying the number of hours completed.
B. The board may conduct an audit of its licensees to ensure compliance with the applicable CPE requirements. Licensees who are selected for audit must provide the necessary documentation stipulated in this section.
Statutory Authority
§§ 54.1-201 and 54.1-2301 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 11, eff. April 1, 2017; amended, Virginia Register Volume 42, Issue 8, eff. January 16, 2026.
18VAC160-30-235. Training courses, generally.
In accordance with 18VAC160-30-110, training courses approved by the board may be substituted for experience. All training courses must be approved by the board in accordance with the provisions of this part. Training courses may be delivered in person or using distance, virtual, or online education technology. Training courses may be approved retroactively; however, no applicant will receive credit for the training course until such approval is granted by the board.
1. Up to one training credit will be awarded for each 10 hours of classroom contact time or for each 20 hours of laboratory exercises and field trip contact time. Training credit will not be earned for breaks, meals, or receptions. A training credit awarded is equivalent to one month of experience.
2. Training courses that meet the requirements of 18VAC160-30-280 may be accepted for substitution of experience without approval by the board.
Statutory Authority
§§ 54.1-201 and 54.1-2301 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 42, Issue 8, eff. January 16, 2026.
Part V
Training Course Approval
18VAC160-30-240. Approval of training courses.
A training provider seeking approval of a training course must submit an application for training course approval on a form provided by the board.
The application must include:
1. The name of the training provider;
2. Provider contact person, address, and contact information;
3. Training course title;
4. Identification of the profession, category, and class of license to which the course is applicable;
5. Method of delivery;
6. Detailed course schedule, including start and end times and a list of planned breaks;
7. Instructor qualifications, including name, license number, if applicable, and a list of trade-appropriate designations, as well as a professional resume with a summary of teaching experience and subject matter knowledge and qualifications acceptable to the board;
8. Training course syllabus or outline;
9. Materials to be provided to participants; and
10. A description of the means that will be used to assess the learning of each participant to determine successful completion of the training course, such as examinations, projects, personal evaluations by the instructor, or other recognized evaluation techniques.
Statutory Authority
§§ 54.1-201 and 54.1-2301 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 11, eff. April 1, 2017; amended, Virginia Register Volume 42, Issue 8, eff. January 16, 2026.
18VAC160-30-250. (Repealed.)
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 11, eff. April 1, 2017; amended, Virginia Register Volume 42, Issue 8, eff. January 16, 2026.
18VAC160-30-260. Maintenance of records.
All providers of approved training courses must establish and maintain a record for each participant. The record must include the participant's name and address, the course name and hours attended, the course syllabus or outline, the names of the instructors, the date of successful completion, and the board's approved training course identification number. Records must be available for inspection during normal business hours by authorized representatives of the board. Providers must maintain these records for a minimum of five years.
Statutory Authority
§§ 54.1-201 and 54.1-2301 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 11, eff. April 1, 2017; amended, Virginia Register Volume 42, Issue 8, eff. January 16, 2026.
18VAC160-30-265. Reporting of changes.
Any change in the information provided in 18VAC160-30-240 must be reported to the board within 90 days of the change. Any change in information submitted will be reviewed to ensure compliance with the provisions of this chapter.
Statutory Authority
§§ 54.1-201 and 54.1-2301 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 42, Issue 8, eff. January 16, 2026.
18VAC160-30-270. Withdrawal of approval.
The board may withdraw approval of a training course for the following reasons:
1. The course being offered no longer meets the standards established by the board.
2. The provider, through an agent or otherwise, advertises its services in a fraudulent or deceptive manner.
3. The provider, instructor, contact person, or designee of the provider falsifies any information relating to the application for approval, course information, or participant records.
4. The training course provider fails to provide the participant with documentation of course completion showing the hours completed, the date of training, and the training course identification number assigned by the board.
5. A change in the information provided results in noncompliance with this part.
6. The provider fails to comply with 18VAC160-30-265.
7. The provider fails to respond to the board or any of its agents.
Statutory Authority
§§ 54.1-201 and 54.1-2301 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 11, eff. April 1, 2017; amended, Virginia Register Volume 42, Issue 8, eff. January 16, 2026.
18VAC160-30-275. Board authority to audit approved training courses.
The board may conduct an audit of any board-approved training course provider to ensure continued compliance with this chapter.
Statutory Authority
§§ 54.1-201 and 54.1-2301 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 42, Issue 8, eff. January 16, 2026.
18VAC160-30-280. Acceptance of training courses offered by certain entities.
A. Training courses provided by (i) federal, state, or local government agencies; (ii) a regional or national accreditation association; or (iii) an accrediting agency that is recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Education do not require board approval to be used for experience substitution, provided the training course information submitted to the board includes the following:
1. The course must include the continuing education units awarded by the entity.
2. The course's subject matter must be related to the license category and classification, if applicable, for which experience substitution is sought.
B. The board may request additional information from the provider as necessary to ensure compliance with this section. If the board cannot ensure compliance, the training course may not be used for experience substitution, or the provider may pursue board approval pursuant to this chapter.
Statutory Authority
§§ 54.1-201 and 54.1-2301 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 11, eff. April 1, 2017; amended, Virginia Register Volume 42, Issue 8, eff. January 16, 2026.
Part VI
Standards of Practice and Conduct
18VAC160-30-290. Grounds for disciplinary action.
The board may place a licensee on probation in accordance with § 54.1-201 A 7 of the Code of Virginia; impose a monetary penalty in accordance with § 54.1-202 A of the Code of Virginia; or revoke, suspend, or refuse to renew any license when the licensee has been found to have violated or cooperated with others in violating any provision of the regulations of the board or Chapter 23 (§ 54.1-2300 et seq.) of Title 54.1 of the Code of Virginia.
Statutory Authority
§§ 54.1-201 and 54.1-2301 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 11, eff. April 1, 2017; amended, Virginia Register Volume 42, Issue 8, eff. January 16, 2026.
18VAC160-30-300. Maintenance of license.
A. No license issued by the board may be assigned or otherwise transferred.
B. A licensee must report, in writing, to the board any change of the following:
1. The licensee's legal name. Such report must be accompanied by documentation acceptable to the board that verifies the name change.
2. The licensee's address, to include the physical address when applicable.
C. A change of name or address must be reported to the board within 60 days of the change. The board is not responsible for the licensee's failure to receive notices, communications, and correspondence caused by the licensee's failure to report to the board any change of name or address.
Statutory Authority
§§ 54.1-201 and 54.1-2301 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 11, eff. April 1, 2017; amended, Virginia Register Volume 42, Issue 8, eff. January 16, 2026.
18VAC160-30-310. Notice of adverse action.
A. A licensee must notify the board of the following actions against the licensee:
1. Any disciplinary action taken by any jurisdiction, board, or administrative body of competent jurisdiction, including any reprimand, revocation, suspension, or denial of a license, certificate, or registration; imposition of a monetary penalty; requirement to take remedial education; or other corrective action.
2. Any voluntary surrendering of a license, certificate, or registration done in connection with a disciplinary action taken by any jurisdiction, board, or administrative body.
3. Any conviction, finding of guilt, or plea of guilty, regardless of adjudication or deferred adjudication, in any jurisdiction of the United States of any (i) misdemeanor involving lying, cheating, or stealing, except marijuana convictions, or (ii) felony, there being no appeal pending therefrom or the time for appeal having lapsed. Review of convictions will be subject to the requirements of § 54.1-204 of the Code of Virginia.
B. The notice must be given to the board in writing within 30 days of the action. A copy of the order or other supporting documentation must accompany the notice.
Statutory Authority
§§ 54.1-201 and 54.1-2301 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 11, eff. April 1, 2017; amended, Virginia Register Volume 38, Issue 6, eff. December 8, 2021; Volume 42, Issue 8, eff. January 16, 2026.
18VAC160-30-320. Prohibited acts.
The following acts are prohibited and any violation may result in disciplinary action by the board:
1. Violating, inducing another to violate, cooperating with another to violate, or combining or conspiring with or acting as agent, partner, or associate for another to violate any of the provisions of Chapter 1 (§ 54.1-100 et seq.), 2 (§ 54.1-200 et seq.), 3 (§ 54.1-300 et seq.), or 23 (§ 54.1-2300 et seq.) of Title 54.1 of the Code of Virginia, or any of the regulations of the board.
2. Obtaining or attempting to obtain a license by false or fraudulent representation or maintaining, renewing, or reinstating a license by false or fraudulent representation.
3. Failing to report a change as required by 18VAC160-30-300.
4. A licensee having been convicted or found guilty in any jurisdiction or disciplined by any jurisdiction, board, or administrative body in any jurisdiction of any offense or violation enumerated in 18VAC160-30-310. Review of convictions will be subject to the requirements of § 54.1-204 of the Code of Virginia.
5. Failing to inform the board in writing within 30 days that the licensee was convicted, found guilty in any jurisdiction, or disciplined by any jurisdiction, board, or administrative body of any offense or violation enumerated in 18VAC160-30-310.
6. Actions constituting negligence, misconduct, or incompetence in the practice of the profession, including:
a. Having undertaken to perform or having performed a professional assignment that the licensee is not qualified to perform by education, experience, or training.
b. Not demonstrating reasonable care, judgment, or application of the required knowledge, skill, and ability in the performance of the licensee's duties.
c. Failing to adequately supervise and review work performed by licensed or unlicensed employees under direct supervision of the licensee.
d. Failing to act in providing waterworks and wastewater works operator services in a manner that safeguards the interests of the public.
7. Actions constituting improper, fraudulent, or dishonest conduct, including:
a. Making any misrepresentation or engaging in acts of fraud or deceit when providing professional services.
b. Submitting or recording or assisting another in the submission or recording of false or misleading operational information relating to the performance and monitoring requirements of a waterworks or wastewater works.
c. Allowing a license issued by the board to be used by another.
Statutory Authority
§§ 54.1-201 and 54.1-2301 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 11, eff. April 1, 2017; amended, Virginia Register Volume 42, Issue 8, eff. January 16, 2026.
18VAC160-30-330. Conflicts of interest.
The licensee must:
1. Promptly and fully inform an employer or client of any business association, interest, or circumstance that may influence the licensee's judgment or the quality of service.
2. Not accept compensation, financial or otherwise, from more than one party for services on or pertaining to the same project, unless the circumstances are fully disclosed to and agreed to by all interested parties in writing.
3. Neither solicit nor accept financial or other valuable consideration from material or equipment suppliers for specifying their products or services, unless the circumstances are fully disclosed and agreed to by all interested parties in writing.
4. Not solicit or accept gratuities, directly or indirectly, from contractors or their agents or other parties dealing with a client or employer in connection with work for which the licensee is responsible, unless the circumstances are fully disclosed and agreed to by all interested parties in writing.
Statutory Authority
§§ 54.1-201 and 54.1-2301 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 11, eff. April 1, 2017; amended, Virginia Register Volume 42, Issue 8, eff. January 16, 2026.
18VAC160-30-340. Licensee responsibility.
A. The primary obligation of the licensee is to the public. If the licensee's judgment is overruled and not adhered to when advising appropriate parties of circumstances of a substantial threat to the public health, safety, or welfare, the licensee must inform the employer or client, as applicable, of the possible consequences and notify appropriate authorities.
B. The licensee will not knowingly associate in a business venture with, or permit the use of the licensee's name by, any person where there is reason to believe that person is engaging in activity of a fraudulent or dishonest nature or is violating any law or regulation of the board.
Statutory Authority
§§ 54.1-201 and 54.1-2301 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 11, eff. April 1, 2017; amended, Virginia Register Volume 42, Issue 8, eff. January 16, 2026.
18VAC160-30-350. Response to inquiry and provision of records.
A. A licensee must respond within 10 days to a request by the board or any of its agents regarding any complaint filed with the department.
B. Unless otherwise specified by the board, a licensee of the board must produce to the board or any of its agents within 10 days of the request any document, book, or record concerning any transaction pertaining to a complaint filed in which the licensee was involved or for which the licensee is required to maintain records. The board may extend such timeframe upon a showing of extenuating circumstances prohibiting delivery within such 10-day period.
C. A licensee must not provide a false, misleading, or incomplete response to the board or any of its agents seeking information in the investigation of a complaint filed with the board.
D. With the exception of the requirements of subsections A and B of this section, a licensee must respond to an inquiry by the board or its agent within 21 days.
Statutory Authority
§§ 54.1-201 and 54.1-2301 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 11, eff. April 1, 2017; amended, Virginia Register Volume 42, Issue 8, eff. January 16, 2026.
18VAC160-30-360. Wastewater works.
A. A Class 4 wastewater works licensee may operate any wastewater works classified under the Sewage Collection and Treatment Regulations (9VAC25-790) as a Class IV treatment works or any other wastewater works classified by DEQ or VDH as a Class IV or Class 4 wastewater works.
B. A Class 3 wastewater works licensee may operate any wastewater works classified under the Sewage Collection and Treatment Regulations as a Class III or Class IV treatment works or any wastewater works classified by DEQ or VDH as a Class III or Class IV or Class 3 or Class 4 wastewater works facility.
C. A Class 2 wastewater works licensee may operate any wastewater works classified under the Sewage Collection and Treatment Regulations as a Class II, Class III, or Class IV treatment works or any wastewater works classified by DEQ or VDH as a Class II, Class III, or Class IV or Class 2, Class 3, or Class 4 wastewater works.
D. A Class 1 wastewater works licensee may operate any wastewater works classified under the Sewage Collection and Treatment Regulations as a Class I, Class II, Class III, or Class IV treatment works or any wastewater works classified by DEQ or VDH as a Class I, Class II, Class III, or Class IV or Class 1, Class 2, Class 3, or Class 4 wastewater works.
Statutory Authority
§§ 54.1-201 and 54.1-2301 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 11, eff. April 1, 2017; Errata, 33:15 VA.R. 1905 March 20, 2017; amended, Virginia Register Volume 42, Issue 8, eff. January 16, 2026.
18VAC160-30-370. Waterworks.
A. A Class 6 waterworks licensee may operate any waterworks classified under the VDH Waterworks Regulations (12VAC5-590) as a Class 6 waterworks or any waterworks classified by VDH as a Class 6 waterworks.
B. A Class 5 waterworks licensee may operate any waterworks classified under the VDH Waterworks Regulations as a Class 5 or Class 6 waterworks or any waterworks classified by VDH as a Class 5 or Class 6 waterworks.
C. A Class 4 waterworks licensee may operate any waterworks classified under the VDH Waterworks Regulations as a Class 4, Class 5, or Class 6 waterworks or any waterworks classified by VDH as a Class 4, Class 5, or Class 6 waterworks.
D. A Class 3 waterworks licensee may operate any waterworks classified under the VDH Waterworks Regulations as a Class 3, Class 4, Class 5, or Class 6 waterworks or any waterworks classified by VDH as a Class 3, Class 4, Class 5, or Class 6 waterworks.
E. A Class 2 waterworks licensee may operate any waterworks classified under the VDH Waterworks Regulations as a Class 2, Class 3, Class 4, Class 5, or Class 6 waterworks or any waterworks classified by the VDH as a Class 2, Class 3, Class 4, Class 5, or Class 6 waterworks.
F. A Class 1 waterworks licensee may operate any waterworks classified under the VDH Waterworks Regulations as a Class 1, Class 2, Class 3, Class 4, Class 5, or Class 6 waterworks or any waterworks classified by VDH as a Class 1, Class 2, Class 3, Class 4, Class 5, Class 6 waterworks.
Statutory Authority
§§ 54.1-201 and 54.1-2301 of the Code of Virginia.
Historical Notes
Derived from Virginia Register Volume 33, Issue 11, eff. April 1, 2017; amended, Virginia Register Volume 42, Issue 8, eff. January 16, 2026.
Forms (18VAC160-30)
Waterworks Operator License Application, A436-1955EXLIC-v3 (eff. 1/2026)
Provisional Waterworks Operator License Application, A436-1955PLIC-v4 (eff. 1/2026)
Wastewater Works Operator License Application, A436-1965EXLIC-v4 (eff. 1/2026)
Provisional Wastewater Works Operator License Application, A436-1965PLIC-v4 (eff. 1/2026)
Provisional Description and Experience Verification Application, A436-1955_65PEXP-v4 (eff. 1/2026)
Training Course Approval Application, A465-19CRS-v6 (eff. 1/2026)
Education and Training Substitution Form, A436-19EDTRv4, (eff. 4/2017)
Waterworks Operator - Universal License Recognition Application, A436-1955ULR_v3 (eff. 1/2026)
Wastewater Works Operator - Universal License Recognition Application, A436-1965ULR_v3 (eff. 1/2026)