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California · Water & Wastewater Operators · 2026 renewal guide

How to Renew Your California Water & Wastewater Operator License

California water & wastewater operators must complete 12 hours of board-approved continuing education every 3 years, as required by State Water Resources Control Board, Division of Drinking Water, Office of Operator Certification (Drinking Water Operator Certification Program).

Written by the TradesCE compliance team · Verified against the State Water Resources Control Board, Division of Drinking Water, Office of Operator Certification (Drinking Water Operator Certification Program) rule on September 4, 2026.

CE hours
12 hours
Renewal cycle
Every 3 years
Next deadline
Per license
Exam to renew
Not required

Who has to renew

This guide covers California water & wastewater operators holding a All licensees license. Requirements are set by State Water Resources Control Board, Division of Drinking Water, Office of Operator Certification (Drinking Water Operator Certification Program).

When to renew

California water & wastewater operators licenses renew every 3 years, on the schedule your board assigns to your license. Continuing education must be complete before you submit the renewal. (https://www.waterboards.ca.gov/drinking_water/certlic/occupations/documents/opcert/renewalfaqs.pdf)

The continuing education California requires

State Water Resources Control Board, Division of Drinking Water, Office of Operator Certification (Drinking Water Operator Certification Program) requires 12 hours of approved continuing education every 3 years. The board does not mandate specific topics beyond the approved-course requirement.

How to renew, step by step

  1. 1

    Confirm your license class and renewal date

    California sets water & wastewater operators requirements by license class (All licensees). Check the class printed on your license, then note your renewal date — renewals run the schedule your board assigns to your license.

  2. 2

    Complete 12 hours of board-approved continuing education

    State Water Resources Control Board, Division of Drinking Water, Office of Operator Certification (Drinking Water Operator Certification Program) requires 12 hours every 3 years. Do not leave it for the last week — completions must be on file before the deadline.

    See the California water & wastewater operators course
  3. 3

    Save your certificate of completion

    Download the certificate the moment you finish and keep it with your license records.

  4. 4

    Make sure your hours reach the board

    In California, you keep your certificate of completion and present it to the board if asked.

  5. 5

    Renew with State Water Resources Control Board, Division of Drinking Water, Office of Operator Certification (Drinking Water Operator Certification Program)

    Submit your renewal and pay the renewal fee before the deadline. A late renewal usually means a late fee, and a lapsed license can mean re-applying from scratch.

    Go to State Water Resources Control Board, Division of Drinking Water, Office of Operator Certification (Drinking Water Operator Certification Program)

California water & wastewater operator renewal FAQ

How many continuing education hours do California water & wastewater operators need?
California water & wastewater operators must complete 12 hours of board-approved continuing education every 3 years, as set by State Water Resources Control Board, Division of Drinking Water, Office of Operator Certification (Drinking Water Operator Certification Program).
Can California water & wastewater operators complete continuing education online?
Yes. Board-approved online courses count toward the California requirement; timed seat-time and completion records satisfy audit requirements.

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