Answered
Can I hold both a water and wastewater operator license in Texas?
Yes. Water and wastewater are separate Texas licenses with separate exams, and many operators hold both. It makes you more employable at small utilities that run both systems. You earn each by meeting its requirements and passing its own Class D exam.
Last reviewed 2026-08-03
Two licenses, two exams
The water and wastewater licenses are governed separately and tested separately. Holding one does not grant the other; you apply for and pass each on its own.
Why hold both
Small utilities often run water and wastewater together, so an operator licensed in both is more valuable and more employable. Many operators earn the second license once they are working.
Common questions
- Is one license enough for both?
- No. Water and wastewater are separate licenses and exams.
- Which should I get first?
- Whichever matches the job you want; many people add the other later.
- Does holding one help with the other?
- It builds your knowledge, but you still pass each exam separately.