Texas, TCEQ, Wastewater Treatment, Class D
How to become a Texas Class D wastewater operator
Last reviewed 2026-08-01. Facts link to their official source.
To become a Texas Class D wastewater operator you need a high school diploma or GED, then the approved Basic Wastewater Operation course. Apply to the TCEQ with the $111 fee, wait for the approval letter, and pass the three-hour closed-book exam at 70 percent.
The path, step by step
- 1
Start with the basics
Class D is the entry level, so no work experience is required. You need a high school diploma or GED to earn the full license.
- 2
Complete the approved courses
Finish the TCEQ-approved training for your track before you apply. The exact courses and hours are listed below, with their source.
- 3
Apply to the TCEQ
Send your application and fee, then wait for the approval letter. Booking an exam before that letter arrives is the most common delay.
- 4
Book and take the exam
The exam is closed-book at a computer-based testing center. Bring only what the test center allows on the day.
- 5
Pass and get your license
Meet the passing score and the Class D license is yours. From there you can operate and, in time, work toward a higher grade.
Every step, with its source
- Education
- High school diploma or GED.
- Source: TCEQ Wastewater Operator Licensing ('Wastewater Class D Licensing Requirements, Education and Work Experience'.)
- Approved courses
- One approved course: Basic Wastewater Operation.
- Source: TCEQ Wastewater Operator Licensing ('Wastewater Class D Licensing Requirements, Training Courses'.)
- The application order
- Pre-approval is required before scheduling: submit the application and fee through OLEA, receive the approval letter, then book a registered CBT center.
- Source: TCEQ Computer-Based Testing ('Pre-approval of your licensing application is required'.)
- Application fee
- Application fee: $111 (Provisional Class D: $74).
- Source: TCEQ Wastewater Operator Licensing (Wastewater Class D 'Application and Examination'.)
- Passing score
- Minimum passing score: 70 percent.
- Source: TCEQ Water System Operator Licensing ('Water Operator Licensing Overview': pass the applicable exam with a minimum score of 70 percent.)
- If you do not have a diploma yet
- No diploma or GED yet? A Provisional Wastewater Class D exists: a $74 application, valid for two years, and it must be upgraded to the full Class D by the end of that period.
- Source: TCEQ Wastewater Operator Licensing ('Provisional Wastewater Class D Licensing Requirements'.)