CWEA Home    Technical Certification Home     Print Entire Handbook

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Question: Is it required that I begin at the Grade I level then work my way up from there to higher levels?
Answer: No, you may take any test that you qualify for with your education and experience. However, if you are just starting out you can see by the education and experience requirements that you can work your way up the grade levels faster if you become certified at Grade I then achieve each successive certification as soon as you get the required education and experience.

Question: If I take a Grade II, III, or IV test will I have to know the Test Content Areas for the lower level tests?
Answer: Yes, the subject matter for each test builds on the subject matter for those tests below its grade level. A thorough knowledge of the Test Content Areas for the grade level that your are taking is most important to your preparation, but you should expect questions from any of the lower grade levels.

Question: Is continuing education required to renew my certification?
Answer: Not right now, but continuing education will be required for renewal around 2001.

Question: How long is the test?
Answer: All tests have about 75-100 questions and 3 hours are given for completion.

Question: Can I take more than one certification test at once?
Answer: Yes, but you can only take up to two at a time. You will be given a total of three hours to complete both tests.

Question: How do I get a receipt showing I paid for the test?
Answer: A receipt is sent to all applicants who have paid their fees about one month after the application deadline. Hold on to this receipt until the certification process is over in case you have to submit it to your employer for reimbursement.

Question: If I am applying for the Grade IV test do I need to be a Supervisor?
Answer: No, you just need to have about one year of supervision experience. You do not have to hold the title of “Supervisor.”

Question: Does my qualifying experience need to be at a wastewater treatment plant?
Answer: Not necessarily. Similar experience maintaining a water treatment facility is also acceptable as long as it generally fits the Essential Duties. Experience from other industries is also acceptable if it generally fits the Essential Duties.

<< Previous Page        Next Page >>

Copyright © 2000 Califormia Water Environment Association