This means that all individuals now wishing to obtain a water distribution license must begin the licensure process at Level 3 and meet all training, education and experience requirements associated with the licensure level and sit for the applicable state distribution examination.

Once the Level 3 license is obtained, an applicant will then be able to pursue higher levels of licensure. These requirements are outlined in the table below:

License Level*EducationTrainingLicense PrerequisiteDEP Exam PrerequisiteDistribution Experience
3

High School Diploma or GED

Level 3 CourseN/ALevel 32,080 hrs (1 yr)
2

High School Diploma

or GED

Level 2 CourseLevel 3Level 26,240 hrs (3 yrs)
1

High School Diploma

or GED

Level 1 CourseLevel 2Level 110,400 hrs (5 yrs)

*Time spent working on wastewater collection systems does not count toward the required water distribution experience requirement.

In addition to the initial examination and licensing requirements, don’t forget about the need to complete your continuing education units (CEUs) after you’ve received your distribution license. All distribution licenses, regardless of level, expire on April 30 of every odd numbered year. In order to renew your distribution license, each distribution licensee must complete 0.5 CEU. This requirement of 0.5 CEUs is the same for all distribution license levels (1, 2, 3 & 4).

Need further assistance or information regarding the program?

Operator Certification Program
Division of Water Resource Management
2600 Blair Stone Road, MS 3506
Tallahassee, FL 32399-2400
Phone: 850-245-7500  FAX: 850-245-8410
email: operator.certification@dep.state.fl.us
Last Modified: Monday, Jun 03, 2024 - 10:59am