STATE OF FLORIDA

DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION

OPERATOR CERTIFICATION PROGRAM

HANDBOOK for

WATER DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM OPERATORS

Operator Certification Program

2600 Blair Stone Rd. MS 3506, Tallahassee, FL 32399-2400

Telephone (850) 245-7500 Fax (850) 245-8411

https://live-depweb.pantheonsite.io/water/certification-restoration/

Customer Satisfaction Survey

http://floridadep.ocpcustomersatisfaction.sgizmo.com/s3/

Revised: March 2017

TABLE OF CONTENTS: PAGE NO.

Introduction

Examination Information (Step 1)

Licensure Requirements (Step 2)

Experience Verification

Mailing Addresses and Contact Information

Technical Assistance and Professional Training

Minimum Examination Eligibility Requirements

Examination Subject Area Overview 8

Minimum Licensure Eligibility Requirements 9

Approved Training Courses

DEP Water Distribution Classification

License Renewal and Failure to Renew

Continuing Education Providers

Approved Correspondence Courses for CEU’S

Frequently Asked Questions Concerning Continuing Education

Things to Remember Before Sending in Your Application

ADDENDUMS

Examination Application Form

Address/Name Change Form

OCP Rule 62-602 F.A.C.

Mission of the Operator Certification Program

The mission of the Florida Operator Certification Program is to promote public health and

safety, protect the environment, and conserve Florida’s water resources by ensuring that all

persons working in drinking water, water distribution, and wastewater meet the highest

standards for certification as determined by the rules and regulations of the Florida Department

of Environmental Protection under the guidelines of the United States Environmental Protection

Agency.

INTRODUCTION: PLEASE READ THIS FIRST!

Florida Administrative Code Chapter 62-602 defines specific requirements for application, examination,

license, renewal, and regulation of Water Distribution Operators. A copy of Chapter 62-602, Florida

Administrative Code is included in this handbook. This handbook contains useful information on

approved training courses, related regulations and associations that assist in training or technical

programs. We encourage you to carefully read all information in the handbook before completing an

application.

You must meet all minimum eligibility requirements for the examination type and level for which you are

applying.

Step One: What is required for the examination process?

1. Completed DEP examination application. (Application must specify EXAMINATION not

certification or licensure.)

2. One color or black and white photo size 2 X 2. (No photocopied pictures)

3. Approved DEP coursework. (Courses are located in this handbook.)

4. Application fee of $75.00 for levels 1, 2, 3 and 4.

5. High school diploma, GED or transcript showing date of graduation. College diplomas or transcripts

are also acceptable. Note: All diplomas or transcripts not in English must be accompanied

with an English translation. Diplomas must be equivalent to a United States high school

diploma. Additional verification may be requested upon review. Internet based High School

Diplomas or GED’s are not acceptable.

Make copies of the completed application before mailing. Also, retain all instructions and the rules

section for your records. Upon review of your application, you will receive a status notification from the

Department. Please type of write CLEARLY on your application to ensure your name and

address is spelled accurately.

Please remember that information in this handbook is subject to change at any time. Only the most

current books have the most up-to-date information. Discard any Distribution handbooks with a revision

date older than the current handbook. If you find information in this book that you believe to be

questionable, please contact our office for clarification. Good luck on your upcoming exams.

Examination fees:

The total fee to be submitted with each examination application for the 1, 2, 3 & 4 exams is:

$75.00 Total ($25.00 non-refundable application fee plus $50.00 examination fee)

Examination Application Processing:

Applications received with missing information, or unacceptable course work, photos, insufficient

experience, or insufficient fees are considered INCOMPLETE. Applicants must meet the minimum

eligibility requirements for the applicable level of certification prior to approval and scheduling. If an

application section does not apply, “N/A” should be written in the respective spaces. The application

must be signed and dated by the applicant.

All examination applications must be submitted with required documentation and fees to be

considered complete. Applications do not come directly to our office. Applications go to Finance and

Accounting before a receipt number is issued. Our department has up to 30 days to process an

application. If you have not received notification at the end of 30 days please contact our office.

Step Two: What is required for the Certification (Licensing) process?

Once you have passed the examination you must complete a separate application. In this application

you will document actual distribution experience. The sections of the application for current and past

employment can ONLY be verified by a Florida DEP licensed Water Treatment Plant Operator or DEP

licensed Water Distribution Operator in the appropriate field. Wastewater Operators can not verify

experience for Water Distribution.

As per 62-602.420(2)(d), F.A.C., “If the employment experience is not verified by a licensed operator,

an applicant for a treatment plant operator license must provide a reference from a peer who is a

licensed operator of the same type (water or domestic wastewater) to verify the type of experience of

the applicant. If the employment experience is not verified by a licensed operator, an applicant for a

water distribution system operator license must provide a reference from a peer who is either a

licensed water treatment plant operator or a licensed water distribution system operator to verify the

type of experience of the applicant”.

Experience verification must include the following information:

1. Dates of employment from start to end date. Do not use the “to present” as an end date.

2. Hours worked per week.

3. Name of plant worked.

4. Overtime hours if (available).

5. Name and title of person signing (printed).

6. Signature of a DEP licensed Water Distribution operator or DEP Drinking Water operator.

7. Date.

8. Phone number.

Licensure application:

Licensure applications may be submitted at anytime after the rule criteria are met. To be licensed,

you must have the correct hours of actual work experience needed, and pass the appropriate type

and class examination. All applicants will be notified in writing of their application status (complete or

incomplete) within 30 days of receipt by the Department. Once the licensure application is approved,

operators will receive their license and wall certificate within four weeks of the approval letter.

Licensure application fee:

The total fee to be submitted with each licensure application for the 1, 2, 3, or 4 level license is $50.00

($25.00 non-refundable application fee, and $25.00 license fee). The application fee is non-

refundable. If an applicant is determined to be ineligible for licensure, the license fee will be

refunded. Please note: A check or money order is acceptable for payment of fees. No purchase

orders, cash or credit cards can be accepted. All state journal transfers must have the application

and/or renewal notice physically attached or we cannot guarantee that our revenue section will post

the journal transfer to the correct license record.

Experience Verification Current or Past:

When completing the employment verification page on the licensure application, please complete all

sections. Only licensed DEP Water Distribution Operators or Water Plant Operators can sign under

supervisor signature. Anyone else that is verifying the experience must attach a separate letterhead

letter or peer reference letter signed by a DEP licensed Distribution/Water Operator. If the peer letter

is submitted still complete the section to the best of your ability. Under supervisor signature state “See

reference letter”. The applicant and supervisor both need to check for errors before mailing the

application. Please write or type clearly. Keep a copy for your records.

for. One you are approved you will be ready to begin the process of the DEP examination.

What is required to submit an application for licensure?

1. Completed DEP certification or licensure application.

2. Completed employment verification section or peer reference letter.

3. Licensing fee of $50.00 for Levels 1, 2, 3 and 4.

4. Application signed and dated by the applicant.

Once we have received your application and approved it, your license and wall certificate are issued.

Congratulations you are now a certified state of Florida Water Distribution Operator!

OUT OF STATE APPLICANTS:

Florida does not offer reciprocity with any other state or foreign country. You are required to

successfully complete a Department approved training course, pass the state licensing examination

and document the appropriate amount of hands-on operational experience for the license type and

level that you are applying for. Prior to submitting an examination application, please provide our

office with the following information so that your out-of-state distribution system operator license can

be evaluated for the comparable licensing level in Florida. If your higher level of licensing can be

determined to be equivalent to our Florida license, you will be eligible to test at a higher level of

examination than the entry level of 3. For approval you will need to submit the following:

• A copy of your current and active out-of-state license

• A complete flow diagram and detailed description of all plant treatment processes and

operations and plant flow type

• Verification of experience signed by a supervisor and/or licensed operator. Verification

letter(s) must be on company letterhead and include dates of employment, hours worked per

week, overtime hours if applicable, and a detailed description of duties performed. Leaving off

any one item will hinder your approval. Submit an employment resume.

• A copy of the laws and rules of your state showing the level of certification and years of

experience required for the level of license you wish to apply for examination in Florida.

Once the evaluation is completed, you can expect to receive a written response from the Operator Certification

Program Administrator reflecting pre-approval of the credited amount of experience hours and license level

you are eligible to apply

MAILING ADDRESSES AND CONTACT INFORMATION:

There are TWO addresses to use concerning the Operator Certification Program. One is for

applications with fees. The other is for general information. Failure to mail fees with

applications to the P.O. Box address may result in delays in the processing of applications.

Please do not send checks or money orders without forms or applications. If forms or

applications are mailed without proper payment, contact our office at (850) 245-7500

immediately. Please note that we have a limited number of program staff answering phone

calls. If we are unable to answer your call, it will be sent to our voice mail system. Make sure

you leave your name, telephone number (including the area code), and a message.

Remember to speak slowly and clearly – we can not return the call if we can not

understand the message.

FOR PAYMENT OF FEES:

(Examination application,

certification application, renewal

and late fees, etc.)

Department of Environmental

Protection

Operator Certification Program

Attn: Finance & Accounting

Post Office Box 3070

Tallahassee, Florida 32315-3070

DO NOT SEND CASH!

FOR GENERAL INFORMATION

REQUESTS and

CORRESPONDENCE:

Department of Environmental

Protection

Operator Certification Program

2600 Blair Stone Road M.S. 3506

Tallahassee, Florida 32399-2400

INTERNET ADDRESS

You may visit our website at

http://www.dep.state.fl.us/water/

wff/ocp for additional copies of

this handbook, forms and other

important information.

You may also view your CEU

credits at

http://ocp.dep.state.fl.us

CHANGE OF ADDRESS

It is the responsibility of the operator to inform the OCP office in writing or by fax of any change

of address. No changes will be made over the phone. A change of address form is included

in this handbook for your convenience. Failure to notify our office of your current address will

delay notification of your examination, licensure and renewal status. Our fax number is

(850) 245-8410.

TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE AND PROFESSIONAL TRAINING

FW & PCOA – Operators Assn

Training Office – Shirley Reaves

P O Box 5668

Titusville, Florida 32783

(321) 433-0081 Fax (321) 383-9690

Internet: www.fwpcoa.org/main.html

Florida Department of Health

Ed Bettinger – Bureau of Water Programs

4052 Bald Cypress Way, Bin C22

Tallahassee, Florida 32399-1742

(850) 245-4444 x-2696

Email: ed_bettin[email protected]

FRWA – Florida Rural Water Association

Gary Williams, Executive Director

2970 Wellington, Circle W, Suite 101

Tallahassee, Florida 32309

(850) 668-2746

Toll free (800) 872-8207

Internet: www.frwa.net

University of Florida - TREEO

Training Office – Ron Trygar

3900 Southwest 63

Blvd

Gainesville, Florida 32608

(352) 392-9570 x 216

Email: rtry[email protected]fl.edu

FSAWWA – FL Section American Water

Works

Casey Cumiskey, Training Coordinator

1300 Ninth Street

Suite B-124

Saint Cloud, Florida 34769

(407) 957-8447 Fax (407) 957-8415

Email: fsaww[email protected]

Mitchell Training, INC.

5414 SW 177

Street

Archer, Florida 32618

(352) 495-3767 Fax (352) 495-3592

Email: www.mtrain.com

RELATED REGULATORY INFORMATION:

Drinking Water Program

Tallahassee Office (850) 245-8623

Drinking Water Rules are:

62-550, F.A.C.

62-555, F.A.C.

62-560, F.A.C.

62-699, F.A.C., Staffing requirements for Distribution and Water/Wastewater treatment plants

To look up the above rules go to: www.dep.state.fl.us

MINIMUM EXAMINATION ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

(Step One: For Water Distribution System Systems Examinations)

Level 4

1. High school diploma or equivalent. (Required course completion is optional)

Level 3

1. High school diploma or equivalent.

2. Document successful completion of a Department-approved training course, taken no more than

5 years prior to the examination date.

Level 2

1. High school diploma or equivalent.

2. An active Level 3 Distribution System license.

3. Document successful completion of a Department-approved training course, taken no more than

5 years prior to the examination date.

Level 1

1. High school diploma or equivalent.

2. An active Level 2 Distribution System license.

3. Document successful completion of a Department-approved training course, taken no more than

5 years prior to the examination date.

All Applicants applying with a NON-FLORIDA LICENSE must submit the following with the

Examination Application in order for us to approve the class requested.

1. Copy of Active out-of-state Distribution System license.

2. Approved State of Florida coursework.

3. Out of State course work taken can be approved with a descriptive/outline and number of

hours (must be no more than 5 years prior to the application date). This course work must be

approved by the Department prior to examination.

Note: All diplomas or transcripts not in English must be accompanied with a translation.

Diplomas must be equivalent to a United States high school diploma. Verification may be

requested upon review.

EXAMINATION SUBJECT AREA OVERVIEW

The Water Distribution System Operators examinations are composed of four levels; Operators –

Level 1, Level 2, Level 3 and Level 4. These examinations are given, for each type and level, on one

day. The examination time allocated is two (2) hours with 50 questions. All exams are composed of

multiple choice questions.

Level 1 Water Distribution System Operators.

Each examination item may be from one of the subject areas listed below:

Perform Administrative Duties

Drinking Water Regulations

Install Equipment

Maintain Equipment

Disinfection

Operate Equipment

System Design

System Inspection

Water Quality

Perform Safety and Security Procedures

Math

Level 2 Water Distribution System Operators.

Each examination item may be from one of the subject areas listed below:

Perform Administrative Duties

Drinking Water Regulations

Install Equipment

Maintain Equipment

Disinfection

Operate Equipment

System Design

System Inspection

Water Quality

Perform Safety and Security Procedures

Math

Level 3 Water Distribution System Operators.

Each examination item may be from one of the subject areas listed below:

Perform Administrative Duties

Drinking Water Regulations

Evaluate Operation of Equipment

Install Equipment

Maintain Equipment

Disinfection

Operate Equipment

System Design

System Inspection

Water Quality

Perform Safety and Security Procedures

Math

EXAMINATION SUBJECT AREA OVERVIEW

Level 4 Water Distribution System Operators.

Each examination item may be from one of the subject areas listed below:

Perform Administrative Duties

Drinking Water Regulations

Install Equipment

Maintain Equipment

Disinfection

Operate Equipment

System Design

System Inspection

Water Quality

Perform Safety and Security Procedures

Math

MINIMUM LICENSURE ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

(Step Two: Once you have passed the State examination)

Level 4

1. Pass the Level 4 examination for the license type;

2. A peer reference letter (only if your experience was not signed by a certified water operator or

certified FDEP distribution operator);

3. Be the owner or owner’s manager, agent, or trainee operating the system for at least 3 calendar

months, not hours); OR document successful completion of an approved Level 4 Course

accompanied by one hour of experience.

Level 3

1. Pass the Level 3 examination for the license type, no more than 4 years prior to application.

2. Document at least 2,080 hours of appropriate operational experience prior to application

and a peer reference letter (only if your experience was not signed by a certified water

operator or certified distribution operator).

Level 2

1. Pass the Level 2 examination for the license type, no more than 4 years prior to application.

2. Document at least 6,240 hours of actual operational experience prior to application and a peer

reference letter (only if your experience was not signed by a certified water operator or certified

distribution operator).

Level 1

1. Pass the Level 1 examination for the license type, no more than 4 years prior to application.

2. Document at least 10,400 hours of actual operational experience prior to application and a peer

reference letter (only if your experience was not signed by a certified water operator or certified

distribution operator).

IMPORTANT NOTE: Rule 62-602.420(2)(d), F.A.C., If the employment experience is not verified by

a licensed operator, an applicant for a water distribution system operator license must provide a

reference from a peer who is either a licensed water treatment plant operator or a licensed water

distribution system operator to verify the type of experience of the applicant. A sample peer reference

letter is included in the forms section of this handbook.

All Applicants applying with a NON-FLORIDA LICENSE must submit the following with the

Examination Application in order for DEP to approve the license classification level requested.

1. Copy of active out-of-state operator license.

2. Submit out of state licensing requirements for the level of license you have. Upon

review, the Department will verify equivalency to a Florida license.

3. Florida approved course work taken with descriptive/outline and number of hours

(must be no more than 5 years prior to the application date).

4. Work experience (dates from – to, hours worked per week in the type applied and

overtime).

5. High school diploma or GED.

Training-Outside of Florida (Please note that the State of Florida does not have reciprocity with

other states or countries).

Courses that have not been approved by the Operator Certification Program may not be accepted.

Out-of-state training must meet the Department of Environment Protection’s standards for water and

wastewater treatment plant operators. Applicants must submit detailed description of out-of-state

training to confirm that the training meets Florida's standards. Course work must have been completed

no more than 5 years prior to the application date.

Approved Training Courses:

All courses have met the established Florida Department of Education standards and are offered at

local community colleges and vocational technical centers throughout the state. Please check in your

area for available times and course levels. If no courses are available, refer to the listing of DEP

Approved Course List in this handbook.

Approved training courses are valid for examination eligibility purposes for five years from the date the

course was completed. Approved training courses older than five years must be retaken in order

to qualify for the respective examination. Expired course work will result in denial of your

examination application. A copy of the training course completion certificate(s) must be attached to

the examination application. It’s not necessary to resubmit coursework or high school diplomas with

re-examination applications.

NOTE: Exams may contain questions on the topics covered in the required course work of the lower

license levels. We strongly recommend that you review all lower license level material when testing

at a higher level. OCP EXAMS DO NOT TEST A PARTICULAR COURSE.

APPROVED TRAINING COURSES

Listed below are the approved courses by the Operator Certification Program. Please be aware that

these courses are subject to change, always check with the course provider that you want to utilize.

Only one course is required for the level that you are applying for.

California State University, Sacramento

Office of Water Programs

6000 J St.

Sacramento, CA 95819-6025

Fax: (916) 278-6142, (916) 278-5959

www.owp.csus.edu

• Level 2 & 3 Water Distribution System

Operation and Maintenance,

• Level 1 - Manage For Success

Daytona Beach Water Distribution System

Lynn Stevens

125 Basin Street

Daytona Beach, FL 32114

386-562-1512

• Levels 2 & 3 Water Distribution

Florida Section American Water Works

Association

Casey Cumiskey, Training

Coordinator/Membership Specialist

1300 Ninth Street, Suite B124

St. Cloud, FL 34769

(407) 957-8447

Fax: (407) 957-8415

Email: fsaww[email protected]

• Levels 2 & 3 Water Distribution

Florida Water & Pollution Control

Operators Association

(FWPCOA)

Training Office – Shirley Reaves

P O Box 5668

Titusville, Florida 32783

(321) 433-0081

Fax: (321) 383-9690

Internet: http://fwpcoa.org

• Levels 1, 2 & 3 Water Distribution

• Level 3 On-line Water Distribution

• Level 2 On-line Water Distribution

•

Florida Rural Water

2970 Wellington Circle, W, Suite 101

Tallahassee, FL 32309-6885

(800) 872-8207

Fax: (850) 893-4581

Email: frwa@frwa.net

Internet: http://www.frwa.net

• Levels 1, 2, 3, & 4 Water Distribution

• Level 1 Utility Management Certification

Fort Pierce Utility Authority

206 South 6th Street

Fort Pierce, Florida 33948

(772)466-1600

Fax: (772)-460-3649

Internet: www.fpua.com

• Levels 2 & 3 Water Distribution

Florida Gateway College

Workforce & Economic Development

149 SE College Place

Lake City, FL 32025-2007

(386) 754-4308

Fax: (386) 754-4778

Internet: www.lakecitycc.edu

Email: water2[email protected]

• Level 3 (Classroom) Water Distribution

• Level 3, On-line Course Water Distribution

Michigan State University

Henry Center for Executive Development

3535 Forest Rd

Lansing, MI 48910

(517) 353-8711

• Level 1 Supervision Concepts and Practices

of Management,

Mid Florida Tech

Orange County Public Schools

2900 West Oak Ridge Road

Orlando, Florida 32809

(407) 251-6161

Internet: http://www.mft.ocps.net

• Levels 2 & 3 Water Distribution

Mitchell Training, Inc.

5414 SW 177th Street

Archer, Florida 32618

(352) 317-1726

Fax (352) 331-5395

Email: mtrain[email protected]

Internet: www.mtrain.com

• Levels 1, 2 & 3 Water Distribution

Palm Beach State College

4200 Congress Avenue

Lake Worth, FL 33461

561-868-3885

Internet: www.palmbeachstate.edu

• Level 3 Water Distribution

Palm Harbor Community School

1900 South Omaha Street

Palm Harbor Florida 34683

(727) 669-1140

Fax: (727) 725-7936

• Levels 2 & 3 Water Distribution

Pinellas Technical Education Center

Public Works Academy

901 34th Street South

St. Petersburg, Florida 33711

(727) 893-2500

Fax: (727) 550-2248

Internet: http://www.myptec.org

• Levels 1, 2 & 3 Water Distribution

R. Dillon DBA Exam Review Books and

Seminars

5079 Woodstone Circle North

Lake Worth, Florida 33463

(561)758-9747

• Level 1 Water Distribution

• Level 2 Water Distribution

• Level 3 Water Distribution

University of Florida TREEO Center

3900 SW 63rd Street

Gainesville, Florida 32608

(800) 327-4218 or (352) 392-1711

Fax: (352) 392-6910

Internet: www.treeo.ufl.edu/water

Email: sw[email protected]

• Level 1 Water Distribution

• Levels 2 & 3, Online Course Water

Distribution

Institute of Florida Studies

Hillsborough Community College

1206 North Park Road

Plant City, Florida 33563

(813) 757-2186

Internet: www.hccfl.edu

• Water Distribution Level 3

DEP WATER DISTRIBUTION CLASSIFICATIONS

The table for DEP classification by level and category according to DEP Rule 62-699, F.A.C., is provided as a

reference for completing plant employment experience.

1. Water Distribution System Category I

Distribution

System

Level 1

Level 2

Level 3

Level 4

Distribution

system connected

to a Class A, B, or

C water treatment

plant.

Serving 100,000 or

more persons.

The lead/chief

operator must be a

Level 1 water

distribution system

operator or a Class C

or higher water

treatment plant

operator. Additionally,

a Level 3 or higher

water distribution

system operator or a

Class C or higher

water treatment plant

operator shall be in

on-site charge of any

water distribution

system operation or

maintenance activity

that may affect water

quality or quantity and

that is listed in

Footnote 1 below

unless the activity is

being performed by a

licensed contractor

working within the

scope of his or her

license.

Serving at least

10,000 persons and

less than 100,000

persons.

The lead/chief

operator must be a

Level 2 or higher

water distribution

system operator or a

Class C or higher

water treatment

plant operator.

Additionally, a Level

3 or higher water

distribution system

operator or a Class

C or higher water

treatment plant

operator shall be in

on-site charge of

any water

distribution system

operation or

maintenance activity

that may affect

water quality or

quantity and that is

listed in Footnote 1

below unless the

activity is being

performed by a

licensed contractor

working within the

scope of his or her

license.

Serving at least

1,000 persons and

less than 10,000

persons.

The lead/chief

operator must be a

Level 3 or higher

water distribution

system operator or a

Class C or higher

water treatment

plant operator.

Additionally, a Level

3 or higher water

distribution system

operator or a Class

C or higher water

treatment plant

operator shall be in

on-site charge of

any water

distribution system

operation or

maintenance activity

that may affect

water quality or

quantity and that is

listed in Footnote 1

below unless the

activity is being

performed by a

licensed contractor

working within the

scope of his or her

license.

Serving less than

1,000 persons

The lead/chief

operator must be

a Level 4 or

higher water

distribution

system operator

or a Class D or

higher water

treatment plant

operator.

Additionally, a

Level 4 or higher

water distribution

system operator

or a Class D or

higher water

treatment plant

operator shall be

in on-site charge

of any water

distribution

system operation

or maintenance

activity that may

affect water

quality or quantity

and that is listed

in Footnote 1

below unless the

activity is being

performed by a

licensed

contractor

working within

the scope of his

or her license.

The following water distribution system operation or maintenance activities may affect water quality or quantity: cleaning (swabbing,

pigging, scraping, or air-purging) existing or repaired water mains; tapping, depressurizing/dewatering, or disinfecting existing or repaired

water mains; dewatering, cleaning, or disinfecting existing or repaired finished-water storage tanks; and manually operating pumps, or

adjusting automatic pump controls or automatic control valves, as necessary to regulate water distribution system flows or pressures.

Part I of Chapter 489, F.S., and rules adopted thereunder and administered by the Department of Business and Professional Regulation

and the Construction Industry Licensing Board regulate the construction industry and establish whether construction work, including the

repair or replacement of water distribution system facilities, must be performed by a licensed contractor.

For wholesale systems, a Category I water distribution system serving less than 1,000 persons shall be classified as a Level 3 water

distribution system. Revised: 3-6-13.

1. Water Distribution System Category II

Distribution

System

Level 1

Level 2

Level 3

Level 4

Distribution

system connected

to a Class D water

treatment plant.

Not Applicable

The lead/chief

operator must be

a Level 4 or

higher water

distribution

system operator

or a Class D or

higher water

treatment plant

operator.

Additionally, a

Level 4 or higher

water distribution

system operator

or a Class D or

higher water

treatment plant

operator shall be

in on-site charge

of any water

distribution

system operation

or maintenance

activity that may

affect water

quality or quantity

and that is listed

in Footnote 1

below unless the

activity is being

performed by a

licensed

contractor

working within

the scope of his

or her license

Water distribution system operation and maintenance activities that may affect water quality or quantity include the following:

cleaning (swabbing, pigging, scraping, or air-purging) existing or repaired water mains; tapping, depressurizing/dewatering, or

disinfecting existing or repaired water mains; dewatering, cleaning, or disinfecting existing or repaired finished-water storage tanks;

and manually operating pumps, or adjusting automatic pump controls or automatic control valves, as necessary to regulate water

distribution system flows or pressures.

Part I of Chapter 489, F.S., and rules adopted thereunder and administered by the Department of Business and Professional

Regulation and the Construction Industry Licensing Board regulate the construction industry and establish whether construction work,

including the repair or replacement of water distribution system facilities, must be performed by a licensed contractor.

Revised: 3-6-13.

LICENSE RENEWAL AND FAILURE TO RENEW

All licenses are biennial and must be renewed by April 30, in odd numbered years to continue

performing the duties of an operator. Ninety days prior to the renewal deadline, licensees are

sent a renewal notice to their last address of record. Please note that all operators are

responsible for keeping track of their renewal periods; all notices sent by the

Department are courtesy reminders that renewal of your license(s) is due. Remember

to notify our office in writing of your current address.

Licenses not renewed by the renewal deadline are considered inactive and the operator may

not perform any duties of an operator. Those operators who do work with an inactive license

may be subject to disciplinary and enforcement action taken An inactive license which is not

reactivated before the end of the current biennial licensure period shall be expired and

considered Null & Void. Subsequent licensure will require meeting all the requirements for

last highest level of licensure obtained. Example: Your license is active until 4/30/2009. If

you fail to renew your license by this date it becomes inactive until 4/30/2011. If proper fees

and CEU’s are not received by 4/30/2011, your license will become Null & Void.

Operators renewing individual licenses:

License

Status

Time of Renewal

Renewal

Fee

CEUs Required

Active

Before the license

expiration date

(1, 2, 3, 4)

$50

1 – 0.5 2 – 0.5

3 – 0.5 4 – 0.5

Inactive

Less than 1 yr. 9 mo.

after the license

expiration date

(1, 2, 3, 4)

$150

1 – 0.5 2 – 0.5

3 – 0.5 4 – 0.5

Inactive

More than 1 yr. 9 mo.

After the license

expiration date

(1, 2, 3, 4)

$200

1 – 1.0 2 – 1.0

3 – 1.0 4 – 1.0

LIST OF CONTINUING EDUCATION PROVIDERS

Below is a list of our current CEU Providers. Please contact them for questions regarding:

1. CEU courses and listings;

2. Problems with CEU credits submitted to the department;

3. Becoming a CEU course Sponsor and/or course approval

University of FL/TREEO Center

Training Office – Ron Trygar

3900 Southwest 63rd Boulevard

Gainesville, Florida 32608

Phone: (352) 392-9570 x 216

Fax: (352) 392-6910

Email: swest@treeo.ufl.edu

Internet: www.treeo.ufl.edu/water

Florida University of Sanitary

Education, Inc

Bill Edgar, Executive Director

P.O. Box 10355

Brooksville, Florida 34603

Phone:(352)754-0503

Fax:(352) 754-1261

Email: wwed[email protected]

Internet: http://www.fuse.ws

FL Water & Pollution Control Operators

Association (FWPCOA)

Shirley Reaves

P O Box 5668

Titusville, Florida 32783

Phone: (321) 383-9690 Fax (321) 433-

0082

Email: Trainin[email protected]g

Internet: http://fwpcoa.org

Florida Section American Water

Works Assoc. (FS/AWWA)

Casey Cumiskey, Training Coordinator

& Membership Specialist

1300 Ninth Street, Suite B-124

Saint Cloud, Florida 34769

Phone: (407) 957-8447

Fax: (407) 957-8415

Email: fsawwa.casey@gmail.com

http://www.fsawwa.org

Florida Water Environment Association

(FWEA)

Kenny Blanton

Black & Veatch Corporation

201 South Orange Avenue, Suite 500

Orlando, Florida 32801

Phone: (407)419-3570

Fax: (407) 419-3503

Email: blantonkm@bv.com

Internet: http://www.fwea.org

Florida Rural Water Association

Becky Cutshaw

2970 Wellington Circle, W, Suite 101

Tallahassee, Florida 32309-6885

Phone: (800) 872-8207

Fax: (850) 893-4581

Email: frwa@frwa.net

Internet: http://www.frwa.net

Or visit the DEP web link below on all approved CEU’S providers and courses.

http://www.dep.state.fl.us/water/wff/ocp/providers.htm

APPROVED CORRESPONDENCE COURSES FOR CEU’S

(Courses, course titles, course numbers and CEU amounts are subject to change. Please contact the provider for most recent information)

California State University at Sacramento

Number

CEU’s

CSUS Water Treatment Plant Operations Vol. 1

69002

CSUS Water Treatment Plant Operations Vol. 2

69079

CSUS Small Water System Operation and Maintenance

69069

CSUS Water Distribution System Operation and Maintenance

69070

CSUS Small Water System, Video Information Series

69074

* CSUS Manage For Success

69075

* CSUS Utility Management

69071

CSUS Small Water System, Water Sources & Treatment

69072

1.5

CSUS Small Water System, Disinfection

69073

1.5

CSUS Small Water Systems, O&M Video Training Series

69076

University of Florida

CEU’s

UF Water Treatment Plant Operations

69173

UF Water D Internet Course

69177

Michigan State University

CEU’s

* Michigan State University Super. Concepts And Practices of Management

69180

Mitchell Training

CEU’s

* Mitchell Training, Management of Water and Wastewater Fac. I & II

69181

Florida Rural Water Association

CEU’s

FRWA Small Water Systems I Internet Course

11041

FRWA Small Water Systems II Internet Course

11042

* Please note the courses listed above with the (*) are considered generic in nature; i.e. not

specific to water distribution system operation, water treatment or wastewater treatment. If you

are a dual license holder, the CEUs cannot be divided or split between a water distribution

system, drinking water and wastewater license. Furthermore, you may not complete the same

course in back-to-back renewal cycles. If you do, you will not receive credit for the second

completed course.

Frequently Asked Questions Concerning Continuing Education

1. Q: What is a CEU?

A: CEU is a continuing education unit given for continuing education. CEU’s may be given in

the form of classroom time or a seminar, self-study programs, and conferences. For distribution

system operators, 0.5 CEUs equals five hours of continuing education contact time.

2. Q: When will CEU’s be required?

A: CEU’S will be required each renewal cycle. Please make sure the courses you take are

completed during the two years directly preceding the request for license renewal. Courses

taken during that period will be applied as credit earned for that renewal cycle only.

3. Q: What is a Provider?

A: A Provider is a non-profit organization or educational institution accredited by the Southern

Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) that will be approving courses for CEU’s. The

OCP will not be approving every course and does NOT have a list of all the courses approved.

You need to contact one or all of the Providers identified in this booklet to obtain a list of all

approved courses.

4. Q: Can I take the same CEU course again that I took last renewal cycle?

A: No. You cannot complete the same course for CEU credit during back-to-back renewal

cycles. Credit will not be awarded to you for the second completion of the course.

5. Q: Can training courses taken for the examination application requirement be accepted

for CEU’s?

A: Yes; as long as you already hold an active license of a lesser level the course can be

used as CEUs for the lower level license.

THINGS TO REMEMBER BEFORE SENDING IN YOUR APPLICATION

EXAMINATION APPLICANTS

1. Complete an examination application form.

2. Sign and date the application form.

3. Attach one photograph to the first page of the application.

4. Attach a personal check, money order, cashiers' check or Journal Transfer payable to

"FDEP"

$75.00 for 1, 2, 3 & 4 Level applicants.

5. Attach copies of high school diploma and course certificates. Not necessary for re-test.

6. Mail all of the above to the address below.

LICENSURE APPLICANTS

1. Complete a licensure application form.

2. Attach a peer reference letter (if needed).

3. Sign and date the licensure application form.

4. Attach a personal check, money order, cashiers' check, or Journal Transfer payable to

"FDEP".

$50.00 for 1, 2, 3 & 4 Level applicants.

5. Attach employment verification.

6. Do not re-send course certificates or high school diplomas

7. Mail all of the above to the address below:

Department of Environmental Protection

Operator Certification Program

Finance & Accounting

Post Office Box 3070

Tallahassee, FL 32315-3070

CHAPTER 62-602

WATER OR DOMESTIC WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT OPERATORS

AND WATER DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM OPERATORS

TABLE OF CONTENTS

62-602.200 Definitions.

62-602.230 Approval of Residence or Correspondence Courses.

62-602.250 Criteria for Determining Eligible Experience.

62-602.270 Eligibility for Operator Examinations.

62-602.300 Qualifications for Operator Licensure.

62-602.350 Approval of Residence or Correspondence Courses. (REPEALED)

62-602.360 Licensing Requirements for Non-Florida Operators.

62-602.400 Applications for License. (REPEALED)

62-602.410 Applications for Examination.

62-602.420 Applications for License.

62-602.430 Application Processing for Examinations and License.

62-602.450 Notification to Applicants for Examinations.

62-602.500 Examination Administration.

62-602.530 Conduct at Test Site and During Reviews.

62-602.550 Grading of Examinations and Grade Notification.

62-602.560 Candidates' Post Exam Review. (REPEALED)

62-602.570 Formal Administrative Hearing Petition and Pre-hearing Review Request.

62-602.580 Use of Operator Examinations.

62-602.600 Fees for Operator Examinations and Licensure.

62-602.650 Duties of Operators.

62-602.660 Technical Manuals.

62-602.700 Operator Licensing.

62-602.710 Renewal of Operator Licenses.

62-602.720 Inactive Status of License.

62-602.750 Denial of Application or Renewal of Licenses.

62-602.800 Grounds for Disciplinary Proceedings.

62-602.850 Disciplinary Guidelines.

62-602.870 Suspension and Revocation of Operator License.

62-602.880 Consecutive Public Water System Operator Licenses.

62-602.900 Forms for the Operator Certification Program.

62-602.200 Definitions.

For the purposes of this chapter, the following words, phrases, or terms shall have the following meaning:

(1) “Approved County Health Department” means Broward, Hillsborough, Lee, Manatee,

Miami-Dade, Palm Beach, Polk, Sarasota, or Volusia County Health Department pursuant to Section

403.862(1)(c), F.S.

(2) “Approved training course” means a course that has received written approval from the

Department for the training of operators as described in Rule 62-602.230, F.A.C.

(3) “Automatic control system” means an on-site computerized system with sensors and

programs that can adjust and control domestic wastewater or water treatment plant equipment and

processes over the normal range of expected operating conditions without operator assistance.

(4) “Continuing Education Unit” means 10 classroom hours of approved instruction. It may be

abbreviated to “CEU” in these rules.

(5) “Delegated local program” means Broward County (collection systems only), Miami-Dade

County, Hillsborough County, Palm Beach County, or Sarasota County pursuant to Section 403.182, F.S.

(6) “Department” means the Florida Department of Environmental Protection.

(7) “Domestic wastewater treatment plant” means any plant or other works used for the

purpose of treating, stabilizing, or holding domestic waste.

(8) “Electronic control system” means a comprehensive automatic control system plus

electronic surveillance system along with capability for manual adjustment and control of domestic

wastewater or water treatment plant equipment and processes via a computerized system at a central or

off-site location that is staffed by a Class C or higher treatment plant operator 24 hours per day and seven

days per week.

(9) “Electronic surveillance system” means a system that monitors operation of a domestic

wastewater or water treatment plant and transmits the results of such monitoring by electronic means to a

central or off-site location. The use of a telephone for communication between the lead/chief operator and

plant personnel is not considered electronic surveillance.

(10) “Experience” means employment as an employee, volunteer, or contractor at a water or

domestic wastewater treatment plant or electronic control system performing the duties described in

subsections 62-602.250(1) and (2), F.A.C, or means employment as an employee, volunteer, or

contractor on or for a water distribution system performing the duties described in subsection 62-

602.250(7), F.A.C. Employment at an industrial treatment plant using water or wastewater treatment

processes similar to those used at drinking water or domestic wastewater treatment plants will qualify as

water or domestic wastewater treatment plant operator experience and be approved by the Department if

the criteria in subsection 62-602.250(3) or (4), F.A.C., are met.

(11) “License” means a document issued by the Department granting the holder the authority

to perform the duties of an operator. The license limits this authority to specific type(s) and

classification(s) of water or wastewater plants or water distribution systems based on the training and

experience of the licensee.

(12) “Local regulatory agency” means any local office of the Florida Department of Health or

county government that is delegated the authority for the compliance and enforcement of drinking water

or domestic wastewater rules.

(13) “Operator” means, for the purpose of this chapter, any person who has an active license

issued, under this chapter, by the Department. License classes and levels are Class A, B, C, and D for

treatment plant operators and Level 1, 2, 3, and 4 for water distribution system operators.

(14) “Permittee” means the person or entity to which a permit for a domestic wastewater

facility is issued by the Department or approved local regulatory agency.

(15) “Probation letter” means a letter reprimanding the operator for failure to comply with the

provisions of Rule 62-602.650, F.A.C. This letter shall initiate up to a two-year probation wherein the

operator must complete one additional CEU. The letter shall set forth with specificity the allegations of

fact that justify the Department’s proposed actions. Within 21 days after receipt of notification, the person

affected may petition for an administrative hearing under Sections 120.569 and 120.57, F.S. An additional

violation of a similar nature or failure to complete the additional CEU shall result in the suspension of the

license for two years.

(16) “Public water system” or “PWS” means a system for the provision to the public of water

for human consumption through pipes or other constructed conveyances if such system has at least 15

service connections or regularly serves an average of at least 25 individuals daily at least 60 days out of

the year. A PWS includes: any collection, treatment, storage, or distribution facilities under control of the

operator of such system and used primarily in connection with such system; and any collection or

pretreatment storage facilities not under control of the operator of such system but used primarily in

connection with such system. A PWS does not include any special irrigation district. A PWS is either a

community water system or a non-community water system.

(17) “Standard operating practice” means effective and competent treatment plant or water

distribution system operation that is consistent with the existing treatment plant or water distribution

system design, the existing treatment plant operation and maintenance manual(s), manufacturers’

equipment manuals, professionally accepted operation procedures as contained in the technical manuals

listed in Rule 62-602.660, F.A.C., and applicable Department rules. This definition applies to functions

that directly affect treatment plant or water distribution system operation and that can be reasonably

controlled by the operator.

(18) “Supplier of water” means any person who owns or operates a public water system. This

does not include the licensed operator unless that person is also the owner.

(19) “Timely” means that the submittal has been postmarked by the post office before

midnight of the date for which the deadline has been established, or has been delivered to the

Department before the close of business of that date. If the deadline is a Saturday, Sunday, or legal

holiday, timely shall be considered the first working day after the deadline.

(20) “Water distribution system” means those components of a public water system regulated

under Chapter 62-550, F.A.C., used in conveying water for human consumption from the water treatment

plant to the consumer’s property, including pipes, tanks, pumps, and other constructed conveyances.

(21) “Water treatment plant” means those components of a public water system used in

collection, treatment, and storage of water for human consumption, whether or not such components are

under the control of the operator of such system. Such plants are permitted and classified by the

Department, under Chapters 62-555 and 62-699, F.A.C., respectively.

Specific Authority 403.869 FS. Law Implemented 403.182, 403.1832, 403.8533, 403.862(1)(c), 403.865,

403.866, 403.867, 403.869 FS. History – New 12-30-99, Amended 2-6-02, 10-15-07.

62-602.230 Approval of Residence or Correspondence Courses.

Educational courses for training of operators shall be approved by type and class or level of training

provided. The Department shall approve operator training courses that have a course content meeting

Department standards as provided in the Department’s Water, Wastewater, & Distribution Operator

Knowledge Base Manual 2007, hereby adopted and incorporated by reference. Copies of this document

may be obtained from the Department of Environmental Protection, Operator Certification Program, Mail

Station 3506, 2600 Blair Stone Road, Tallahassee, Florida 32399-2400.

(1) Residence courses shall be approved for two years and can be re-approved upon

request. The application for approval of a residence course shall contain the following:

(a) Title of the course, the type and class or level of the course, and the total classroom

hours;

(b) A statement describing the curriculum and materials that will be used;

Department’s Water, Wastewater, & Distribution Operator Knowledge Base Manual 2007 for the type and

class or level of the course offered; and

(d) A statement of the qualifications, obligations, and responsibilities of the primary

instructor. The primary instructor is responsible for developing or reviewing the course curriculum and

ensuring the curriculum meets Department standards as provided in the Department’s Water,

Wastewater, & Distribution Operator Knowledge Base Manual 2007. The primary instructor may have

additional experts assist with or instruct areas of specialized training. Primary instructors shall sign all

certificates of completion and notify the Department when a change occurs in the primary instructor of an

approved course.

(2) Residence courses shall not be approved unless an application as described in

subsection (1) above is submitted more than 60 days before the first day of class.

(3) Approval for a correspondence course shall be for as long as the materials are current

and applicable to the training needed by Florida operators. The Department shall review the materials

every two years to determine if the course is current. Approval of correspondence courses only shall be

granted by the Department for courses that meet the standards in the Department’s Water, Wastewater,

& Distribution Operator Knowledge Base Manual 2007. The publisher or provider of a correspondence

course shall submit copies of the text and materials, including tests, to the Department for approval. The

application shall outline how the provider will interact with the student, how many lessons will be

contained in the course, how much time the student is expected to spend on the course, how successful

completion of the course will be indicated, and how frequently the course will be revised to reflect

changing technology or new techniques of treatment. The provider of the course shall notify the

Department when revisions are made and shall provide the Department with a copy of the revised

materials.

(4) The Department shall periodically publish a list of the approved courses. The list shall be

available upon request to the Operator Certification Office, Department of Environmental Protection, Mail

Station 3506, 2600 Blair Stone Road, Tallahassee, Florida 32399-2400.

Specific Authority 403.869, 403.872 FS. Law Implemented 403.1832, 403.8533, 403.872 FS. History –

New 2-6-02, Amended 10-15-07.

62-602.250 Criteria for Determining Eligible Experience.

(1) Experience necessary for treatment plant operators to meet the requirements of Rule 62-

602.300, F.A.C., shall include performance of process control as described in paragraph (a) below while

working at a domestic wastewater or water treatment plant or electronic control system as an employee,

volunteer, or contractor. Experience listed in paragraph (b) below while working for a permittee or supplier

of water as an employee, volunteer, or contractor also can be included for part of the documented

experience if the experience described in paragraph (a) predominates.

(a) Performance of process control shall include the performance of operational control tests

and evaluation and interpretation of the test results; preparation of plant process control reports, logs or

records; analysis and disposal or distribution of the plant product and the residuals from the treatment

process; and control of the hydraulic system and necessary chemical adjustments.

(b) Water distribution system operation and maintenance as described in subsection 62-

602.250(7), F.A.C., sample collection and analysis, electronic surveillance system monitoring, and plant

maintenance.

(2) For the Class A license, persons can use periods of employment as an on-site supervisor

or superintendent of operators at a treatment plant or electronic control system.

(3) Persons employed in the daily on-site operational control of an industrial wastewater

treatment plant can use this experience to meet the experience requirements of the Class A, B, or C

wastewater operator license. Industrial wastewater treatment plant means the structures, equipment and

processes required to treat wastewater, primarily organic in composition, in a plant using a

biodegradation or physical-chemical treatment process, similar to the domestic wastewater secondary,

tertiary or advanced treatment processes. A diagram and detailed process description must be submitted

for the Department to determine if the experience is commensurate to the level applied for.

(4) Persons employed in the daily on-site operational control of an industrial production

process water treatment plant can use this experience to meet the experience requirements of the Class

A, B, or C drinking water operator license. Industrial production process water treatment plant means the

structures, equipment, and processes required to treat water in a plant using a physical-chemical

treatment process similar to drinking water treatment processes. A diagram and detailed process

description must be submitted for the Department to determine if the experience is commensurate to the

level applied for.

(5) Experience required for the treatment plant operator license shall be acquired in the type

of treatment, in either wastewater or drinking water, for which a license is requested. Experience in

treatment of wastewater for reuse shall be counted as wastewater experience.

(6) Experience for treatment plant operators excludes:

(a) Experience in wastewater systems where septic tanks, filter beds, or lagoons are the sole

means of treatment;

(b) Experience in water systems used for swimming;

(d) Experience in the installation or servicing of water softening or conditioning devices

installed in residences or commercial establishments for the purpose of altering the aesthetic quality of

the public water supply;

(e) Experience limited solely to driving a sludge truck, monitoring an electronic surveillance

system, facility maintenance, or laboratory work; and

(f) Periods of employment as directors of public works, utility managers, regulatory

inspectors, or in other occupations which do not include the experience as defined in this rule section.

(7) Experience necessary for water distribution system operators to meet the requirements in

Rule 62-602.300, F.A.C., shall include performance of the duties listed in paragraph (a) below while

working on or for a water distribution system as an employee, volunteer, or contractor. Experience listed

in paragraph (b) below while working on or for a water distribution system as an employee, volunteer, or

contractor also may be included for part of the documented experience if the experience listed in

paragraph (a) predominates.

(a) Cleaning (swabbing, pigging, scraping, or air purging) water mains; installing, tapping,

repairing/replacing, pressure testing, or disinfecting water mains and appurtenances (including fittings,

valves, and hydrants); cleaning or disinfecting finished-water storage tanks; operating or adjusting pumps

or control valves as necessary to regulate water distribution system flows or pressures; evaluating and

interpreting water quality measurements in water distribution systems and troubleshooting to determine

causes of water quality complaints; and estimating and justifying water distribution system operation and

maintenance budgets.

(b) Flushing water mains; installing or repairing/replacing water services lines and

appurtenances (including fittings, valves, and meters); establishing or implementing a cross-connection

control program (including installing, repairing/replacing, or testing backflow preventers); testing and

maintaining water meters; locating and marking water mains or service lines; operating or exercising

isolation valves; testing and maintaining fire hydrants; repairing/overhauling water pumps, control valves

or meters; performing water quality measurements in water distribution systems; collecting and analyzing

water samples; reading or updating water distribution system maps; and preparing water distribution

system operation and maintenance records.

(8) Water distribution system operator experience excludes work on or for a potable water

system that is not a Department-regulated public water system and excludes work on fire protection

systems; irrigation systems; or gas, oil, or steam piping systems.

Specific Authority 403.869, 403.872 FS. Law Implemented 403.1832, 403.8533, 403.865, 403.866,

403.867, 403.872 FS. History – New 12-30-99, Amended 2-6-02, 10-15-07.

62-602.270 Eligibility for Operator Examinations.

(1) To be eligible for operator licensing examinations, the applicant must meet the following

criteria:

(a) Have a high school diploma or its equivalent.

(b) For Class A, B, or C treatment plant operator examinations and Level 1, 2, or 3 water

distribution system operator examinations, have successfully completed a Department-approved training

course for the class or level of the examination to be taken no more than 5 years before the examination.

1. Licensed as a Class B operator to take the Class A examination.

2. Licensed as a Class C operator to take the Class B examination.

(d) Water distribution system operators must be currently licensed as follows:

1. Licensed as a Level 2 operator to take the Level 1 examination.

2. Licensed as a Level 3 operator to take the Level 2 examination.

(2) Operators from other states must meet the requirements of Rule 62-602.360, F.A.C.

Note: To be eligible for licensure, all of the applicable requirements of Rule 62-602.300, F.A.C., must be

met.

Specific Authority 403.869 FS. Law Implemented 403.1832, 403.8533, 403.872 FS. History – New 2-6-02,

Amended 10-15-07.

62-602.300 Qualifications for Operator Licensure.

To be eligible for licensure by the Department, the applicant shall:

(1) For licensure as a Class D operator:

(a) Have a high school diploma or its equivalent;

(b) Be the owner or owner’s manager or agent or trainee engaged in the operation and

maintenance of a public drinking water or domestic wastewater treatment plant for at least 3 months; or

document successful completion of the appropriate training course no more than five years before the

application submittal and have at least one hour of experience under a certified operator; and

602.550(1)(a), F.A.C.

(2) For licensure as a Class C operator:

(a) Have a high school diploma or its equivalent;

(b) Document at least 1 year (2,080 hours) of experience as defined in subsections 62-

602.250(1)-(6), F.A.C., completed before application submittal;

602.550(1)(a), F.A.C., within the time frames specified in paragraph (d) below.

(d) For the purposes of obtaining a license, the examination specified in paragraph (c) above

will satisfy the examination criterion for licensing for a period of four years from the date a passing score

is obtained.

(3) For licensure as a Class B operator the applicant shall:

(a) Have an active Class C license of the same type;

(b) Document at least 3 years (6,240 hours) of experience as defined in subsections 62-

602.250(1)-(6), F.A.C., completed before application submittal; and

602.550(1)(a), F.A.C., within the time frames specified in (d) below.

(d) For the purposes of obtaining a license, the examination specified in paragraph (c) above

will satisfy the examination criterion for licensing for a period of four years from the date a passing score

is obtained.

(4) For licensure as a Class A operator the applicant shall:

(a) Have an active Class B license of the same type;

(b) Document at least 5 years (10,400 hours) of experience as defined in subsections 62-

602.250(1)-(6), F.A.C., completed before application submittal; and

602.550(1)(a), F.A.C., within the time frames specified in paragraph (d) below.

(d) For the purposes of obtaining a license, the examination specified in paragraph (c) above

will satisfy the examination criterion for licensing for a period of four years from the date a passing score

is obtained.

(5) For licensure as a Level 4 water distribution system operator, either meet the criteria in

paragraphs (a) through (c) below or hold an active Department-issued Consecutive Public Water System

Operator License.

(a) Have a high school diploma or its equivalent; and

(b) Be the owner or owner’s manager, agent, or trainee engaged in the operation and

maintenance of a regulated public water distribution system for at least 3 months before submitting

application for licensure; or document successful completion of a Department-approved Level 4 water

distribution system operator training course no more than 5 years before submitting application for

licensure and have at least 1 hour of water distribution system operation and maintenance experience

that is obtained under a licensed operator and that is completed before submitting application for

licensure; and

Level 4 water distribution system operator examination.

(6) For licensure as a Level 3 water distribution system operator, meet the criteria in

paragraphs (a) through (c) below.

(a) Have a high school diploma or its equivalent; and

(b) Document at least 1 year (2,080 hours) of experience as defined in subsection 62-

602.250(7), F.A.C., completed before submitting application for licensure; and

Level 3 water distribution system operator examination no more than 4 years before submitting

application for licensure.

(7) For licensure as a Level 2 water distribution system operator, meet the criteria in

paragraphs (a) through (c) below.

(a) Have a high school diploma or its equivalent; and

(b) Document at least 3 years (6,240 hours) of experience as defined in subsection 62-

602.250(7), F.A.C., completed before submitting application for licensure; and

Level 2 water distribution system operator examination no more than 4 years before submitting

application for licensure.

(8) For licensure as a Level 1 water distribution system operator, meet the criteria in

paragraphs (a) through (c) below.

(a) Have a high school diploma or its equivalent; and

(b) Document at least five 5 years (10,400 hours) of experience as defined in subsection 62-

602.250(7), F.A.C., completed before submitting application for licensure; and

Level 1 water distribution system operator examination no more than 4 years before submitting

application for licensure.

(9) In lieu of meeting the criteria in subsections (6), (7), or (8) above, applicants for a water

distribution system operator license who meet the requirements listed in paragraphs (a), (b), or (c) below

may apply for licensure to the Department before May 1, 2011.

(a) For licensure as a Level 3 water distribution system operator, the applicant must have

received a high school diploma or its equivalent; have satisfactorily completed or instructed prior to

October 15, 2007, one or more Department-approved water distribution system operator training courses

that addressed operation and maintenance of water distribution systems, totaled no less than 20 contact

hours, and included a Department-approved end-of-course exam; and document at least 1 year (2,080

hours) of experience as defined in subsection 62-602.250(7), F.A.C.; or

(b) For licensure as a Level 2 water distribution system operator, the applicant must have

received a high school diploma or its equivalent; have satisfactorily completed or instructed prior to

October 15, 2007, one or more Department-approved water distribution system operator training courses

that addressed operation and maintenance and troubleshooting of water distribution systems, totaled no

less than 40 contact hours, and included a Department-approved end-of-course exam; and document at

least 3 years (6,240 hours) of experience as defined in subsection 62-602.250(7), F.A.C.; or

received a high school diploma or its equivalent; have satisfactorily completed or instructed prior to

October 15, 2007, one or more Department-approved water distribution system operator training courses

that addressed operation and maintenance and troubleshooting of water distribution systems and

supervision of water distribution system personnel, totaled no less than 60 contact hours, and included a

Department-approved end-of-course exam; and document at least 5 years (10,400 hours) of experience

as defined in subsection 62-602.250(7), F.A.C.

Specific Authority 403.869, 403.872 FS. Law Implemented 403.1832, 403.8533, 403.872 FS. History –

New 12-30-99, Amended 2-6-02, 10-15-07.

62-602.350 Approval of Residence or Correspondence Courses. (REPEALED)

Specific Authority 403.869, 403.872 FS. Law Implemented 403.872 FS. History -- New 12-30-99,

Repealed 10-15-07.

62-602.360 Licensing Requirements for Non-Florida Operators.

Operators licensed in other states must meet the following requirements to obtain a Florida license:

(1) Have a high school diploma or its equivalent;

(2) Have successfully completed a Department-approved training course for the class or

level of the license being requested no more than 5 years before the application;

(3) Have the required experience specified in Rule 62-602.300, F.A.C., for the class or level

of license being requested;

(4) Possess an active license equivalent to the class or level of license being requested;

(5) Obtain a passing score on the licensing examination, as provided for in paragraph 62-

602.550(1)(a), F.A.C., for the class or level of license being requested. For the purpose of obtaining a

license, the examination will satisfy the examination criterion for licensing for a period of four years from

the date a passing score is obtained.

Specific Authority 403.869 FS. Law Implemented 403.1832, 403.8533, 403.872 FS. History – New 2-6-02,

Amended 10-15-07.

62-602.400 Applications for License. (REPEALED)

Specific Authority 403.869 FS. Law Implemented 403.872 FS. History -- New 12-30-99, Repealed 2-6-

02.

62-602.410 Applications for Examination.

(1) Applications for treatment plant operator examinations shall be made on Form 62-

602.900(2), “Application for Water or Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator Examination,” hereby

adopted and incorporated by reference, effective 10-15-07, and shall include all fees and documentation

required by this chapter. Applications for water distribution system operator examinations shall be made

on Form 62-602.900(4), “Application for Water Distribution System Operator Examination,” hereby

adopted and incorporated by reference, effective 10-15-07, and shall include all fees and documentation

required by this chapter.

(2) Documentation of course completion shall include the name and type of training

institution, the number of classroom hours in the approved course, the date of course completion, the

type and level of training approved (water or domestic wastewater treatment plant Class D, C, B, or A or

water distribution system Level 4, 3, 2, or 1), and the signature of the instructor who determined that the

applicant has successfully completed the course.

(3) In addition to the completed application form, fees, and all supporting documentation, two

photographs of the applicant’s face and head, size 2 inches by 2 inches, not more than 6 months old,

must be included. Any photograph that is not identifiable will be returned to the applicant and will delay

the processing of the application.

Specific Authority 403.869, 403.872 FS. Law Implemented 403.872 FS. History – New 2-6-02, Amended

10-15-07.

62-602.420 Applications for License.

(1) Applications for treatment plant operator licenses shall be made on Form 62-602.900(1),

“Application for Water or Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator License,” hereby adopted and

incorporated by reference, effective 10-15-07, and shall include all fees and documentation required by

this chapter. Applications for water distribution system operator licenses shall be made on Form 62-

602.900(3), “Application for Distribution System Operator License,” hereby adopted and incorporated by

reference, effective 10-15-07, and shall include all fees and documentation required by this chapter.

(2) Verification of employment experience as defined in subsection 62-602.200(8) F.A.C.,

and Rule 62-602.250, F.A.C., shall be provided by the applicant to confirm the hours required in Rule 62-

602.300, F.A.C. These hours shall be verified by one of, or a combination of, paragraphs (a) through (d)

below.

(a) For applicants who are working as an employee or volunteer, hours shall be verified by

the lead operator of the treatment plant or water distribution system or the applicant’s supervisor.

(b) For applicants who are working as a contractor, hours shall be verified by the contract

manager for each treatment plant or water distribution system, or the applicant shall submit with the

application a copy of the contract for each treatment plant or water distribution system or a certification

from the plant or system owner verifying time at each plant or system.

plant not permitted by the Department must provide a complete flow diagram and detailed description

indicating all plant treatment processes and operations and plant flow rate. The diagram must be attached

to the employment verification. This information will be used to determine experience eligibility under the

classification of plants established by the Department in Chapter 62-699, F.A.C.

(d) If the employment experience is not verified by a licensed operator, an applicant for a

treatment plant operator license must provide a reference from a peer who is a licensed operator of the

same type (water or domestic wastewater) to verify the type of experience of the applicant. If the

employment experience is not verified by a licensed operator, an applicant for a water distribution system

operator license must provide a reference from a peer who is either a licensed water treatment plant

operator or a licensed water distribution system operator to verify the type of experience of the applicant.

(3) To be determined complete, the application must include all fees, signatures and

affidavits, and document all experience.

Specific Authority 403.869, 403.872 FS. Law Implemented 403.1832, 403.8533, 403.872 FS. History –

New 2-6-02, Amended 10-15-07.

62-602.430 Application Processing for Examinations and License.

(1) Applications for operator examinations shall be processed as described. Complete

applications for examinations shall be submitted to the Department or its designee no later than 90 days

before the date of the requested examination. For purposes of this rule, an application is complete when

all items on the application form have been fully answered with all attendant documentation provided, the

applicant has paid all fees specified in Rule 62-602.600, F.A.C., and all checks submitted have been

honored. Applications postmarked, or delivered by hand to the Department, less than 90 days before the

date of an examination shall be processed for the next examination.

(a) Within 30 days after receipt of an incomplete application, the Department shall send

notification to an applicant of an incomplete application. The applicant must make such application

complete no later than two weeks after notice of incompleteness is sent, or by the application deadline,

whichever is later, to be considered eligible for the next examination. If the application is not made

complete by this time, the applicant will be considered ineligible and the refundable fees will be returned.

The applicant must submit a new application with the required fees to be considered for a later

examination. After an application is determined to be complete, an eligibility review shall be conducted by

the Department.

(b) The applicant shall be notified of the eligibility status at least 30 days before the

examination date, or no more than 90 days after the receipt of a complete application, whichever comes

first.

notice of such determination with administrative hearing rights shall be mailed to the applicant. The

applicant may petition for an administrative hearing under Sections 120.569 and 120.57, F.S.

(2) Applications for operator licenses shall be processed as follows:

(a) Applications for operator license may be submitted to the Department or its designee at

any time after the requirements of Rule 62-602.300, F.A.C., have been met. For purposes of this rule, an

application is complete when all items on the application form have been fully answered with all attendant

documentation and the applicant has paid all fees specified in Rule 62-602.600, F.A.C., with all checks

honored.

(b) Within 30 days after receipt of an application, the Department shall send notification to an

applicant of an incomplete application.

90 days after receipt of a complete application.

(d) If the Department determines that the applicant is not qualified for licensure, notice of

such determination with administrative hearing rights shall be mailed to the applicant. The applicant may

petition for an administrative hearing under Sections 120.569 and 120.57, F.S.

Specific Authority 403.869 FS. Law Implemented 403.1832, 403.8533, 403.872 FS. History – New 2-6-02,

Amended 10-15-07.

62-602.450 Notification to Applicants for Examinations.

(1) For each applicant approved by the Department to take the examination, the Department

will notify the applicant of the time, place, and date of the examination and will provide the applicant with

an admission notice that is required for admission to the examination.

(2) The Department will reschedule an applicant for the next available examination, or

provide a refund of the examination fee, when the applicant cannot take the originally scheduled

examination and the applicant provides documentation of one of the circumstances below to the

Department no later than 21 days after the scheduled examination:

(a) For required military service, the applicant must submit to the Department a copy of the

applicant’s military orders or a letter from the applicant’s commanding officer.

(b) For medical reasons, the applicant must provide a statement from the applicant’s treating

physician that serious injury, illness, or other impairment prevented the candidate from taking the

examination.

this caused the applicant to miss the scheduled examination.

(d) Subpoena to appear in court or for jury duty.

(3) If an applicant does not take the scheduled exam, and does not meet the requirements in

subsection (2) above, the examination fee will neither be refunded nor carried forward to the next

examination cycle.

Specific Authority 403.869 FS. Law Implemented 403.872 FS. History – New 12-30-99, Amended 10-15-

07.

62-602.500 Examination Administration.

(1) During the examination, candidates must follow the instructions of the examination

supervisor. The instructions shall be provided to the candidates in written form, and shall be read to the

candidates by the examination supervisor. The candidates will be permitted to ask reasonable questions

of the Department’s examination supervisor and proctors relating to the instructions.

(2) The Department’s admission notice for the specified examination and a government-

issued photo identification, such as driver’s license, must be presented in order to gain admission to the

examination. A valid government-issued photo identification shall be acceptable in the absence of the

admission notice provided the candidate’s name appears on the examination admission roster that has

been prepared by the Department for the specific examination.

(3) If a candidate arrives at the designated testing location after the designated starting time,

the candidate will be permitted to take the examination only after the candidate has signed a statement

clearly indicating the candidate’s late arrival time, and has agreed that the candidate will have only the

remaining designated time in the examination to complete the examination. Any candidate who refuses to

sign such a statement will be disqualified from the examination and may apply to the Department for

scheduling for the next examination. If the late candidate arrives after any other candidate has already

finished the examination and left the examination room, the late candidate will be disqualified from the

examination and may apply to the Department for scheduling for the next examination. The exam fee will

not be refunded in either situation described above.

(4) All examination booklets, answer sheets, and other examination papers and materials are

the sole property of the Department. No candidate shall take any of the examination booklets, answer

sheets, answers, or other examination papers or materials from the examination room, or retain,

reproduce or compromise the materials in whole or in part by any means or method.

(5) The examinations will consist of multiple-choice questions. All questions are equally

weighted. Knowledge, skills, or abilities to be tested shall be determined by the Department and reviewed

by the exam review committee.

(6) If through no fault of the candidate, the candidate is not allowed the standard allotted time

to complete the examination, additional time may be allowed upon approval of the examination

supervisor. If materials are lost by the Department, or other problems occur because of the Department’s

inaction or negligence, the Department shall permit reexamination in those areas at no charge at the next

available regularly scheduled examination.

Specific Authority 403.869 FS. Law Implemented 403.872 FS. History – New 12-30-99, Amended 10-15-

07.

62-602.530 Conduct at Test Site and During Reviews.

(1) Any individual found by the Department to have engaged in conduct which subverts or

attempts to subvert the examination or review process will have his or her scores on the examination

withheld and declared invalid.

(a) Individuals with an active or inactive license shall be subject to suspension or revocation

of the license as stated in subsection 62-602.870(1), F.A.C.

(b) Individuals that do not have an active or inactive license shall be disqualified from taking

future exams for a period of two years.

(2) Conduct that subverts or attempts to subvert the examination process includes:

(a) Conduct which violates the security of the examination materials, such as removing from

the examination room any of the examination materials; reproducing or reconstructing any portion of the

licensing examination; aiding by any means in the reproduction or reconstruction of any portion of or

information from the licensing examination; selling, distributing, buying, receiving, or having unauthorized

possession of any portion of, or information from, a future or current licensing examination.

(b) Conduct which violates the standard of test administration, such as communicating with

any other examinee during the administration of the examination; copying answers from another

examinee or permitting one's answers to be copied by another examinee during the administration of the

examination; having in one's possession during the administration of the licensing examination any book,

notes, written or printed materials or data of any kind, other than the examination materials distributed or

specifically listed as approved materials for the examination room in the information provided to the

examinee in advance of the examination date by the Department.

information required for admission to the examination, impersonating an examinee or having an

impersonator take the licensing examination on one's own behalf.

Specific Authority 403.869 FS. Law Implemented 403.872 FS. History - New 12-30-99, Amended 2-6-02.

62-602.550 Grading of Examinations and Grade Notification.

(1) Grading of all examinations shall be as follows:

(a) Examinations shall be graded by the Department or its designee. Examination answer

sheets shall be electronically scored. Effective July 1, 2000, the minimum passing score on the

examination is 70%. In rounding percentages, any percentage that is 0.5 or above shall be rounded up to

the next higher whole number. Percentages less than 0.5 shall be rounded down to the next lower whole

number.

(b) After an examination has been graded, the Department shall reject any questions that do

not reliably measure the general areas of competency. The Department shall review the item analysis

and any statistically questionable items after the examination has been administered. Based upon this

review, the Department shall adjust the scoring key by eliminating the questionable items for grading

purposes. All questions that do not adequately and reliably measure an applicant's ability to practice the

profession shall be rejected. The Department shall calculate each candidate's grade using the scoring key

or adjusted scoring key.

(2) The Department shall notify the candidate of the results of the candidate's examination.

An examination grade notification letter shall be withheld for insufficient funds resulting from any fee. Any

candidate failing to achieve a passing score will also be notified of the requirements for re-examination,

and review and appeal rights and procedures.

(3) If there are additional adjustments to the scoring key after the mailing of grades for an

examination, amended grade reports shall be mailed to all candidates whose scores increased from a

failing score to a passing score as a result of the adjustment.

(4) If it is determined that a candidate's examination or portion thereof cannot be scored

through no fault of the candidate, the candidate shall be permitted to take the next available regularly

scheduled examination at no charge.

Specific Authority 403.869 FS. Law Implemented 403.872 FS. History - New 12-30-99, Amended 2-6-02.

62-602.560 Candidates' Post Exam Review. (REPEALED)

Specific Authority 403.869 FS. Law Implemented 403.872 FS. History - New 12-30-99, Amended 2-6-02,

Repealed 10-15-07.

62-602.570 Formal Administrative Hearing Petition and Pre-hearing Review Request.

Under Sections 120.569 and 120.57, F.S. and Rules 62-110.106, 28-106.201 and 28-106.301, F.A.C., a

candidate who has taken and failed an examination may petition for an administrative hearing under the

following terms and conditions:

(1) All petitions for administrative hearings shall be filed no later than twenty-one (21) days

after the applicant receives the Department’s grade notification letter. No petition received more than 21

days from the date of receipt of the grade notification letter will be accepted. The petition shall conform to

Rule 28-106.201, F.A.C., when material facts are in dispute, or Rule 28-106.301, F.A.C., when no

material facts are in dispute.

(2) After the petition has been filed, for the purpose of preparing for the administrative

hearing, the candidate and the candidate’s attorney will be permitted to review examination questions,

answers, papers, grades, and grade keys for the questions the candidate answered incorrectly. The

request for such review will be submitted to the Department in writing.

(3) If, while preparing for a hearing, the Department discovers that credit should be awarded

for one or more examination questions listed in the candidate’s petition for a hearing, the Department

shall issue an amended grade notification letter reflecting the candidate’s amended score.

Specific Authority 403.869 FS. Law Implemented 403.872 FS. History – New 12-30-99, Amended 10-15-

07.

62-602.580 Use of Operator Examinations.

(1) Operator examinations will be developed by or for the Department, or the Department will

use available national operator examinations.

(2) A national examination is an examination developed by or for a national or multi-state

professional association, board, council, or society (hereinafter referred to as organization) and

administered for the purpose of assessing entry-level skills necessary to protect the health, safety, and

welfare of the public from incompetent practice and meets the following standards:

(a) The purpose of the examination shall be to establish entry-level standards of practice that

shall be common to all practitioners;

(b) The practice of the profession at the national level must be defined through an

occupational survey with a representative sample of all practitioners and professional practices; and

national occupational survey.

(3) The organization that develops a national examination, or for which a national

examination is developed, as discussed in subsection (2) above must meet the following requirements:

(a) The organization must be recognized by practitioners across the nation in the form of

representatives from the States or shall have membership representing a substantial number of the

nation’s or states’ practitioners who have been licensed through the national examination.

(b) The organization shall be the responsible body for overseeing the development and

scoring of the national examination.

national examination and shall oversee the enforcement of these guidelines.

(4) Written examinations developed by or for the Department may include trial test or

experimental questions for the purpose of evaluating the statistical or psychometric qualities of new or

revised questions prior to their use in an examination. Trial test or experimental questions will not be

identified to the candidates as trial test questions on the examination.

(a) The maximum number of trial test questions included in a single examination shall not

exceed 20 percent of the total number of questions on the examination, or ten (10) questions, whichever

is greater.

(b) Trial test questions shall not be counted toward the candidate’s score on the

examination. Answers to trial test questions shall not be subject to review by the candidates during the

candidate’s review process. Additional time will not be given to complete an examination that contains

trial questions.

Specific Authority 403.869 FS. Law Implemented 403.1832, 403.8533, 403.872 FS. History – New 12-30-

99, Amended 10-15-07.

62-602.600 Fees for Operator Examinations and Licensure.

The following fees are required for the activities associated with operator examination and licensing.

(1) Applicants for operator examinations shall submit the following fees with the application.

All application fees are non-refundable.

Examination Class or Level Application Fee Examination Fee

Class A Treatment Plant Operator $25 $75

Class B Treatment Plant Operator $25 $75

Class C Treatment Plant Operator $25 $75

Class D Treatment Plant Operator $25 $50

Level 1 Water Distribution System Operator $25 $50

Level 2 Water Distribution System Operator $25 $50

Level 3 Water Distribution System Operator $25 $50

Level 4 Water Distribution System Operator $25 $50

(2) Applicants for operator licenses shall submit the following fees with the application. All

application fees are non-refundable.

License Class or Level Application Fee License Fee

Class A Treatment Plant Operator $50 $50

Class B Treatment Plant Operator $50 $50

Class C Treatment Plant Operator $50 $50

Class D Treatment Plant Operator $25 $25

Level 1 Water Distribution System Operator $25 $25

Level 2 Water Distribution System Operator $25 $25

Level 3 Water Distribution System Operator $25 $25

Level 4 Water Distribution System Operator $25 $25

(3) All operators holding a Class A, B, or C treatment plant operator license shall renew their

license biennially and pay a non-refundable $75 fee to the Department before a renewal license will be

issued. Operators holding a Class D treatment plant operator license or a Level 1, 2, 3, or 4 water

distribution system operator license shall renew their license biennially and pay a non-refundable $50 fee

to the Department before a renewal license will be issued.

(4) To obtain a duplicate license or wall certificate, the licensee must submit a written

request and pay $25 for each duplicate requested.

(5) To reactivate an inactive license, a reactivation fee of $100 shall be paid in addition to the

specified biennial license renewal fee.

(6) The fees stated in subsections (1) through (3) above shall be $10 for an application, $10

for an examination, and $10 for a license or license renewal for wards of the state upon submission of

written evidence, with the examination or license application or renewal notice, to the Department that

said individual is a ward of the state.

Specific Authority 403.869 FS. Law Implemented 403.871, 403.872, 403.874 FS. History – New 12-30-99,

Amended 2-6-02, Amended 10-15-07.

62-602.650 Duties of Operators.

An operator is responsible for performing treatment plant or water distribution system operation and

maintenance duties in a manner consistent with standard operating practices. The duties shall be the

following:

(1) Domestic wastewater treatment plant operators shall perform responsible and effective

on-site management of the operation, supervision, and maintenance of domestic wastewater treatment

plants, including, if applicable, reuse or disposal systems within the operator’s responsibility. Water

treatment plant operators shall perform responsible and effective on-site management of the operation,

supervision, and maintenance of water treatment plants or water distribution systems. Water distribution

system operators shall perform responsible and effective on-site management of the operation,

supervision, and maintenance of water distribution systems.

(2) Domestic wastewater treatment plant operators shall submit to the permittee all required

reports in the manner required by the Department in Rule 62-601.300, F.A.C. Water treatment plant

operators shall submit to the supplier of water all required reports in the manner required by the

Department in Rules 62-550.730, 62-555.325, and 62-555.350, F.A.C.

(3) Domestic wastewater treatment plant operators shall notify the permittee as soon as

possible following the discovery of any abnormal event or noncompliance that may endanger health or

the environment as described in subsection 62-604.550(2) or 62-620.610(20), F.A.C.; additionally,

wastewater plant operators shall report to the State Warning Point (SWP) at 1(800)320-0519 and the

Department or delegated local program in accordance with subsections 62-604.550(2) and 62-

620.610(20), F.A.C., unless the permittee has written procedures designating and directing other

knowledgeable staff to report on behalf of the permittee to the SWP and the Department or delegated

local program in accordance with subsections 62-604.550(2) and 62-620.610(20), F.A.C. Water treatment

plant operators and water distribution system operators shall notify the supplier of water as soon as

possible after discovery of any of the circumstances described in subsection 62-555.350(10), F.A.C.;

additionally, water treatment plant operators and water distribution system operators shall report to the

SWP, the Department or approved county health department (ACHD), and water customers in

accordance with subsection 62-555.350(10), F.A.C., unless the supplier of water has written procedures

designating and directing other knowledgeable staff to report on behalf of the water supplier to the SWP,

the Department or ACHD, and water customers in accordance with subsection 62-555.350(10), F.A.C.

(4) Domestic wastewater treatment plant operators shall maintain a separate operation and

maintenance (O&M) log for each domestic wastewater treatment plant, and water treatment plant

operators shall maintain a separate O&M log for each water treatment plant. The plant O&M log shall be

maintained on site at the plant in a location accessible to 24-hour inspection and protected from weather

damage. The plant O&M log shall be maintained in a hard-bound book with consecutive page numbering,

or alternatively, part or all of the plant O&M log may be maintained electronically upon written request by

the permittee or supplier of water and written approval by the appropriate Department district office,

delegated local program, or approved county health department (ACHD). Department district offices,

delegated local programs, and ACHDs shall approve partial or complete electronic plant O&M logs if the

permittee or supplier of water demonstrates that required data will remain accessible to 24-hour

inspection and protected from weather damage; that adequate data storage capacity and data backup will

be provided; that entries made by recording equipment will be date/time stamped; and that entries made

by an operator will be date/time stamped and accompanied by an electronic signature unique to, and

under the sole control of, the operator. The plant O&M log shall be maintained current to the last

operation and maintenance performed and shall contain a minimum of the previous three months of data

at all times. The plant O&M log shall contain the following information, which shall be entered in the O&M

log during each plant visit before leaving the plant:

(a) Identification of the plant;

(b) The signature and license number of the operator making any entries;

(d) Description of specific plant operation and maintenance activities, including any

preventive maintenance or repairs made or requested;

(e) Results of tests performed and samples taken, unless documented on a laboratory sheet.

(f) Notation of any notification or reporting completed in accordance with subsection 62-

602.650(3), F.A.C.

(5) Beginning May 1, 2011, water treatment plant or distribution system operators shall

maintain one or more operation and maintenance (O&M) logs for each water distribution system. The

water distribution system O&M log may be combined with the O&M log for any water treatment plant

connected to the water distribution system or may be a separate log. The water distribution system O&M

log shall be maintained in a hard-bound book with consecutive page numbering, or alternatively, part or

all of the water distribution system O&M log may be maintained electronically upon written request by the

supplier of water and written approval by the appropriate Department district office or approved county

health department (ACHD). Department district offices and ACHDs shall approve partial or complete

electronic water distribution system O&M logs if the supplier of water demonstrates that adequate data

storage capacity and data backup will be provided; that entries made by recording equipment will be

date/time stamped; and that entries made by an operator will be date/time stamped and accompanied by

an electronic signature unique to, and under the sole control of, the operator. The water distribution

system O&M log shall be maintained current to the last operation and maintenance performed and shall

contain a minimum of the previous three months of data at all times. The water distribution system O&M

log shall contain the following information, which shall be entered in the O&M log on the day the

information was obtained:

(a) Identification of the distribution system;

(b) The signature and license number of the operator making any entries;

activities that may affect water quality or quantity and that are listed in Footnote 1 under the tables in

subparagraphs 62-699.310(2)(f)1. and 2., F.A.C., including any such activities that are performed by a

licensed underground utility and excavation contractor or licensed plumbing contractor;

(d) Results of tests performed and samples taken, unless documented on a laboratory sheet;

(e) Notation of any notification or reporting completed in accordance with subsection 62-

602.650(3), F.A.C.

Specific Authority 403.869 FS. Law Implemented 403.1832, 403.8533, 403.865, 403.875(1)(a) FS.

History – New 12-30-99, Amended 2-6-02, 10-15-07.

62-602.660 Technical Manuals.

The following technical manuals are incorporated by reference herein and are to be used to establish

professionally accepted treatment plant or water distribution system operation. These manuals are

available from the sources listed below.

(1) Domestic Wastewater Treatment Plants.

(a) Operation of Wastewater Treatment Plants, Volume I. Sixth Edition, 2004. California

State University Sacramento, Office of Water Programs, 6000 J Street, Sacramento, California 95819-

6025.

(b) Operation of Wastewater Treatment Plants, Volume II. Sixth Edition, 2003. California

State University Sacramento, Office of Water Programs, 6000 J Street, Sacramento, California 95819-

6025.

Office of Water Programs, 6000 J Street, Sacramento, California 95819-6025.

(d) Small Wastewater Systems Operation and Maintenance, Volume I. First Edition, 1997.

California State University Sacramento, Office of Water Programs, 6000 J Street, Sacramento, California

95819-6025.

(e) Small Wastewater Systems Operation and Maintenance, Volume II. First Edition, 2002.

California State University Sacramento, Office of Water Programs, 6000 J Street, Sacramento, California

95819-6025.

(f) Operation of Municipal Wastewater Treatment Plants, Volumes I-III, WEF Manual of

Practice 11. Fifth Edition, 1996. Water Environment Federation, Publications Order Department, 601

Wythe Street, Alexandria, Virginia 22314-1994.

(2) Water Treatment Plants and Water Distribution Systems.

(a) Water Treatment Plant Operation, Volume I. Fifth Edition, 2004. California State

University Sacramento, Office of Water Programs, 6000 J Street, Sacramento, California 95819-6025.

(b) Water Treatment Plant Operation, Volume II. Fourth Edition, 2004. California State

University Sacramento, Office of Water Programs, 6000 J Street, Sacramento, California 95819-6025.

State University Sacramento, Office of Water Programs, 6000 J Street, Sacramento, California 95819-

6025.

(d) Small Water System Operation and Maintenance. Fourth Edition, 2002. California State

University Sacramento, Office of Water Programs, 6000 J Street, Sacramento, California 95819-6025.

(e) Water Treatment Operator Handbook, American Water Works Association (AWWA).

Revised Edition, 2005. AWWA, 6666 West Quincy Avenue, Denver, Colorado 80235.

(f) Water Distribution Operator Training Handbook, American Water Works Association

(AWWA). Third Edition, 2005. AWWA, 6666 West Quincy Avenue, Denver, Colorado 80235.

(g) American Water Works Association (AWWA) Standard C651-05, Disinfecting Water

Mains; AWWA Standard C652-02, Disinfection of Water-Storage Facilities; AWWA Standard C653-03,

Disinfection of Water Treatment Plants; and AWWA Standard C654-03, Disinfection of Wells. AWWA,

6666 West Quincy Avenue, Denver, Colorado 80235.

(h) Recommended Practice for Backflow Prevention and Cross-Connection Control, AWWA

Manual M14, Third Edition, 2004, American Water Works Association, 6666 West Quincy Avenue,

Denver, Colorado 80235.

(i) “Guidelines for the Issuance of Precautionary Boil Water Notices,” December 11, 2006.

Florida Department of Health, Bureau of Water Programs, 4052 Bald Cypress Way, Bin # C22,

Tallahassee, Florida 32399-1742.

Specific Authority 403.869 FS. Law Implemented 403.867, 403.875 FS. History – New 12-30-99,

Amended 10-15-07.

62-602.700 Operator Licensing.

The Department shall issue an appropriate license to each applicant who has met all the license

requirements for a specific class or level.

(1) The effective date of the license shall be the date the applicant is notified by the

Department and the license shall expire at the end of the current biennium except for instances where the

initial operator license became effective within 12 months before the current biennium. These licenses will

remain effective until the end of the following biennial period.

(2) Licenses shall be renewed in accordance with Rule 62-602.710, F.A.C.

(a) It shall be the responsibility of the licensee to keep the Department informed of any

changes in information or new information that the Department requires, including changes in the current

mailing address and name changes.

(b) Licensees shall send their requests for changes to the Department’s master file to the

Department of Environmental Protection, Operator Certification Program, Mail Station 3506, 2600 Blair

Stone Road, Tallahassee, Florida 32399-2400.

Specific Authority 403.869 FS. Law Implemented 403.1832, 403.8533, 403.867 FS. History – New 12-30-

99, Amended 2-6-02, 10-15-07.

62-602.710 Renewal of Operator Licenses.

(1) All active licenses remain active until the end of the current biennium as indicated on the

license, except as specified in subsection 62-602.700(1) and Rule 62-602.870, F.A.C. The effective date

of an active license shall be the first day of the current biennium or the date the required renewal fee and

documentation of completion of CEUs are received, whichever is later. Each biennium extends through

the 30th of April of odd numbered years.

(2) At least 90 days before an active license expires, the Department shall mail renewal

notices to the operator’s last address of record. However, failure to receive a renewal notice shall not

excuse the licensee from timely renewal.

(3) To retain an active status following the end of each biennium, the following must be

submitted to the Department in a timely manner.

(a) The current name, address, social security number, and the license type and level.

(b) A certification acknowledging the following:

1 Completion of all requirements for license renewal set forth by the Department;

2 That during the upcoming licensure period the applicant may be required to produce

proof that all license renewal requirements for that licensure period were met; and

3 That failure to comply with license renewal requirements, or making a false statement as

to such compliance, will subject the applicant to disciplinary action or criminal prosecution.

correct, current information required above is provided and the notice is signed by the licensee.

(d) The fee specified in subsection 62-602.600(3) or (7), F.A.C.

(e) Documentation of successful completion of CEUs as required in subsection 62-

602.710(4), F.A.C.

(4) CEUs shall be required for renewal of operator licenses beginning after the renewal cycle

ending April 30, 2001. CEUs must be approved by the Department for credit to be given, and the required

number of units shall be earned in the two years directly preceding the request for license renewal.

Completing an approved training course for the next higher class or level of license during a renewal

cycle will satisfy the CEU requirement for that cycle. CEU requirements are as follows:

(a) Two CEUs shall be required for the renewal of a Class A or B water or domestic

wastewater treatment plant operator license.

(b) One CEU shall be required for the renewal of each Class C water or domestic

wastewater treatment plant operator license.

wastewater treatment plant operator license and each Level 1, 2, 3, or 4 water distribution system

operator license.

(d) An individual who has active Class A or B licenses for both drinking water and domestic

wastewater shall only be required to obtain 3 CEUs for the renewal of both licenses, but 1.5 CEUs must

apply to each type of license; CEUs that can be applied to either type of license must be clearly identified

as such on the certification, and cannot be concurrently applied to each license. An individual who has

both an active water treatment plant operator license and an active water distribution system operator

license may concurrently apply the same CEUs to each license. CEUs for all other combinations of dual

licensing shall be additive.

(e) A certified operator who is teaching an approved continuing education course shall, upon

receipt of documentation, receive credit equal to the CEUs approved for that course.

(f) A certified operator who teaches an approved residence course may use this experience

for one-half of the required CEUs needed to renew his license.

(g) Certificates of completion showing the continuing education credit shall be filed with the

request for licensure renewal form and the renewal fee. Electronic confirmation of completion will be

accepted from participating institutions in lieu of a certificate of completion. A request for renewal shall be

denied if required continuing education cannot be confirmed. The renewal fee shall not be refunded if the

license is denied because of insufficient continuing education units.

(h) Approval of CEU courses shall be accomplished in accordance with the Department’s

“Manual for Approving Continuing Education Courses for Operator Licensing,” that may be obtained by

writing to Department of Environmental Protection, Operator Certification Program, Mail Station 3506,

2600 Blair Stone Road, Tallahassee, Florida 32399-2400.

(i) Topics for continuing education include operation and control of a treatment plant or

water distribution system, troubleshooting treatment processes, troubleshooting to determine the causes

of water quality complaints, health and safety, employee and community right-to-know notification

procedures, toxic and hazardous materials handling procedures, solids and residuals control, supervision

and management, basic chemistry and biology, mathematics of the treatment process or water

distribution system, laboratory sampling procedures, equipment or water main maintenance and repair,

computer applications for water or wastewater treatment or water distribution, blue print reading,

governmental rules and procedures, security, and emergency response.

Specific Authority 403.869 FS. Law Implemented 403.1832, 403.8532, 403.8533, 403.873 FS. History –

New 12-30-99, Amended 2-6-02, 10-15-07.

62-602.720 Inactive Status of License.

(1) Any license shall revert to inactive status if the requirements of subsection 62-602.710(3),

F.A.C., have not been met.

(2) A licensee with an inactive status may apply to reactivate the license during the two-year

period following the deadline for the last renewal cycle.

(3) To reactivate the license, the licensee shall meet the requirements in subsection 62-

602.710(3), F.A.C., including submitting the renewal fee, and shall submit the reactivation fee specified in

subsection 62-602.600(5), F.A.C.

(4) The license of an inactive licensee that does not achieve active status within two years

following the end of the most recent licensing period shall be expired, and subsequent licensure will

require meeting all the requirements for initial licensure at or below the class or level which he/she was

licensed.

Specific Authority 403.869 FS. Law Implemented 403.1832, 403.8533, 403.874 FS. History – New 12-30-

99, Amended 10-15-07.

62-602.750 Denial of Application or Renewal of Licenses.

(1) The Department shall deny an application for license examination, license issuance, or

renewal of a license for any of the following reasons:

(a) Submission of false or misleading information on the license application or renewal

request.

(b) Submission of a non-redeemable check with the license application or renewal request.

(d) Failure to pass the appropriate examination.

(e) Fraud or cheating on an examination.

(f) Revoked or suspended license in Florida or another state.

(g) Any of the reasons listed in Rule 62-602.800, F.A.C.

(2) Upon denial of renewal of a license, the Department shall give written notice to the

person involved. Within 21 days from receipt of notice, the person affected may petition for an

administrative hearing under Sections 120.569 and 120.57, F.S.

Specific Authority 403.869 FS. Law Implemented 403.872, 403.873 FS. History - New 12-30-99,

Amended 2-6-02.

62-602.800 Grounds for Disciplinary Proceedings.

The following acts or omissions are grounds for disciplinary actions:

(1) Practicing as a licensed operator on a revoked, suspended, or inactive license.

(2) Any operator of a public water system or domestic wastewater treatment plant, licensed

operator, supplier of water, or permittee of a domestic wastewater treatment plant who employs any

person to perform the duties of an operator, as identified in Rule 62-602.650, F.A.C., who is not licensed.

(3) Any person fulfilling operator staffing requirements under Chapter 62-699, F.A.C., without

an active license of the appropriate level and type.

(4) An operator performing treatment plant or water distribution system operation in a

manner that is not consistent with standard operating practices.

(5) An operator who has knowingly or negligently submitted misleading, false, or inaccurate

information as documentation for licensure, laboratory results, or operational reports.

(6) Failure to maintain required reports or records required to be maintained by operators by

the Department.

(7) Failure to comply with any provision of Sections 403.865 through 403.876, F.S., this

chapter, or Department rules pertaining to water or domestic wastewater treatment plants or water

distribution systems.

(8) Failure to comply with an order of the Department previously entered in a disciplinary

action.

Specific Authority 403.869 FS. Law Implemented 403.1832, 403.8533, 403.875, 403.876 FS. History –

New 12-30-99, Amended 2-6-02, 10-15-07.

62-602.850 Disciplinary Guidelines.

When the Department finds that a person who is subject to regulation under Sections 403.865 through

403.876, F.S., has violated any of the provisions set forth in Rule 62-602.800 or 62-602.870, F.A.C., or

Sections 403.865 through 403.876, F.S., it shall issue an administrative order imposing appropriate

penalties for each count within the ranges recommended in the following disciplinary guidelines:

(1) Performing the duties of an operator without an active license. The recommended penalty

is an administrative fine of a minimum of $100 for each month of performance, up to a maximum of

$1000.

(2) Use of the name or title “water treatment plant operator,” “domestic wastewater treatment

plant operator,” or “water distribution system operator,” or any other words, letters, abbreviations, or

insignia indicating or implying that a person is a licensed operator, or otherwise holds himself out as an

operator, unless the person is a holder of a valid license. The recommended penalty is an administrative

fine of a minimum of $250, up to a maximum of $1000.

(3) Knowingly allowing the use or failing to report the use of his or her own license, as the

license of another. The recommended penalty is from a minimum of a 1 year suspension, up to a

maximum of revocation of the operator's license.

(4) Knowingly or negligently submitting misleading, false, inaccurate, or forged information or

evidence to the Department. The recommended penalty for an applicant not already licensed as an

operator is denial of the application and prohibition of reapplication from a minimum of 2 years, up to a

maximum of 3 years. The recommended penalty for an operator shall be revocation of the operator’s

license and prohibition of reapplication for a minimum of 2 years, up to a maximum of permanent

revocation of the operator’s license.

(5) Using or attempting to use a license that has been suspended, revoked, or placed on

inactive status. The recommended penalty for practicing on an inactive license is a fine of $100 for each

month of practice up to $1000. The recommended penalty for practicing on a suspended license is from a

minimum of a $1000 fine, up to a maximum of an additional 1 year suspension. The recommended

penalty for practicing on a revoked license is denial of application for license for a minimum of 3 years, up

to a maximum of 5 years, and a referral to the state attorney for criminal sanctions.

(6) Employing unlicensed persons to perform the duties of an operator or fulfilling, or

employing persons to fulfill, operator staffing requirements under Chapter 62-699, F.A.C., without an

active license of the appropriate type and appropriate class or level. The recommended penalty is an

administrative fine of a minimum of $500, up to a maximum of $1000.

(7) Concealing information relative to any violation of this rule. The recommended penalty is

the imposition of an administrative fine of a minimum of $500, up to a maximum of $1000; and

suspension of license from a minimum of 1 year, up to license revocation. The actual penalty imposed

depends upon the severity of the violation to cause plant upset, produce drinking water that does not

meet the applicable requirements, or endanger the safety of plant employees or the public.

(8) Failure to comply with the provisions of Rule 62-602.650, F.A.C. The recommended

penalty for failure to submit reports in a timely manner, or to maintain operation and maintenance logs, as

required by Rule 62-602.650, F.A.C., is from a minimum issuance of a probation letter to a maximum

administrative fine of $100 per day of the occurrence up to a maximum of $1,000 for the offense. The

recommended penalty for failure to report unpermitted discharges, interruption of service, plant upsets, or

the failure to report the production of drinking water that does not meet the applicable requirements is

from a minimum of a suspension of license of 1 year, up to a maximum of revocation of license. The

recommended penalty for failure to perform treatment plant or water distribution system operation in a

manner consistent with standard operating practices, or failure to comply with any other provision of Rule

62-602.650, F.A.C., is from a minimum administrative fine of $100 per day of the occurrence up to a

maximum of $1,000 for the offense.

(9) Checks for licensure, license renewal, examination returned for insufficient funds. The

recommended penalty is suspension of license until the full fees are received, including the charge for

insufficient funds.

Specific Authority 403.869 FS. Law Implemented 403.1832, 403.8533, 403.875, 403.876 FS. History –

New 12-30-99, Amended 2-6-02, 10-15-07.

62-602.870 Suspension and Revocation of Operator License.

(1) The Department shall, depending on aggravating and mitigating circumstances, in

addition to a fine, suspend a license for a period not to exceed 2 years for any of the following reasons:

(a) Submission of false or misleading information in an application for license or for renewal

of a license.

(b) Cheating on an examination.

or water distribution system, under the direct charge of the operator, being operated in a manner

inconsistent with standard operating practice.

(2) The Department shall permanently revoke a license for any one of the following reasons:

(a) Fraud in the submission of applications or documentation for license or renewal.

(b) Determination by the Department that an operator falsified or intentionally

misrepresented, or finds persistent inaccuracy or incompleteness of, data or information contained in

documents or reports required to be submitted to the Department or an approved local regulatory agency,

including the operation, laboratory or maintenance reports or logs required to be maintained, signed, or

submitted by an operator.

has resulted in harm to public health or safety or to the environment.

(d) Suspension of license more than twice.

(3) Revocation can be permanent or for a shorter time. If less than permanent, a person with

a revoked license may seek certification as an operator upon completion of the revocation period and its

conditions. Such certification must meet all of the requirements in Rule 62-602.300, F.A.C.

(4) Before revoking or suspending a license, the Department shall give written notice to the

persons involved, setting forth with specificity the allegations of fact which justify the Department’s

proposed actions. Within 21 days of receipt of notification, the person affected may petition for an

administrative hearing under Sections 120.569 and 120.57, F.S.

(5) Licenses that have been revoked or suspended shall be returned to the Department

within 30 days after the effective date of revocation or suspension.

(6) In order to resume practicing as an operator, persons with suspended licenses shall not

be required to reexamine for licensure after the period of suspension has passed, unless or until the

person's license expires of its own accord.

Specific Authority 403.869 FS. Law Implemented 403.1832, 403.8533, 403.876 FS. History – New 12-30-

99, Amended 10-15-07.

62-602.880 Consecutive Public Water System Operator Licenses.

Effective October 15, 2007, the Department will not issue any new, nor renew any existing, consecutive

public water system operator licenses. All existing licensees with current licenses shall have their licenses

converted and reissued as a Level 4 water distribution system operator license.

Specific Authority 403.869, 403.872 FS. Law Implemented 403.1842, 403.872 FS. History – New 2-6-02,

Amended 10-15-07.

62-602.900 Forms for the Operator Certification Program.

Each form is listed below by the form number, title, and effective date. Copies of the following forms may

be obtained by writing to the Program Manager, Operator Certification Program, 2600 Blair Stone Road,

Mail Station 3506, Tallahassee, Florida 32399-2400.

(1) Form 62-602.900(1), Application for Water or Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator

License, effective date 10-15-07.

(2) Form 62-602.900(2), Application for Water or Wastewater Treatment Plant Operator

Examination, effective date 10-15-07.

(3) Form 62-602.900(3), Application for Distribution System Operator License, effective date

10-15-07.

(4) Form 62-602.900(4), Application for Water Distribution System Operator Examination,

effective date 10-15-07.

Specific Authority 403.869 FS. Law Implemented 403.876 FS. History – New 12-30-99, Amended 2-6-02,

LICENSURE INFORMATION

Authority for the certification program eligibility requirements and related regulatory

protocol are in Sections 403, Florida Statues (F.S.), and Chapter 62-602, Florida

Administrative Code, (F.A.C.).

LICENSURE APPLICATION

Licensure applications may be submitted at anytime after the rule criteria are met. To be

licensed, you must have the correct hours of actual work experience needed, and pass the

appropriate type and class examination. All applicants will be notified in writing of their

application status (complete or incomplete) within thirty days of receipt by the

Department. Once the Licensure application is approved, operators will receive their

license and wall certificate within two to four weeks of the approval letter.

LICENSURE APPLICATION FEE

The total fee to be submitted with each Licensure application for the A, B & C license is

$100.00 ($50.00 application fee, and $50.00 license fee). The total fee to be submitted

with each Licensure application for the D license is $50.00. ($25.00 application fee and

$25.00 license fee). The application fee is non-refundable. If an applicant is

determined to be ineligible for licensure, the license fee will be refunded.

Please note: A check or money order is acceptable for payment of fees. No purchase

orders or credit cards can be accepted. All state journal transfers must have the

application and/or renewal notice physically attached or we cannot guarantee that our

revenue section will post the journal transfer to the correct license record.

EMPLOYMENT EXPERIENCE AND VERIFICATION

Experience is 'on-site' or 'hands-on' operational experience in the plant. All experience

is to be verified by signature of supervisor and/or licensed operator. You must verify

experience in the application by plant type, in which you have worked or are presently

working, indicating time spent in on-site plant operation, with these stipulations:

• Wastewater treatment plants must have a system for solids control.

• Water plant experience must be gained in drinking water plants, not swimming

pools.

• Operators under contract for the operation of several plants must identify level,

class and name of each plant operated and the name of the contracting company

(if applicable).

NOTE: Your work supervisor or party with whom you contract must sign the past or

present employment section of the application verifying experience. If not, then a letter

on company letterhead, signed by an employer or supervisor, detailing: employment

dates, position title, hours worked, description of duties, and description of treatment

type may be substituted for a signature on the application itself. In this case, complete

the respective employment section and attach the letter to the verification form.