Texas, TCEQ, all Class D operator exams

How TCEQ computer-based testing works

Last reviewed 2026-08-01. Facts link to their official source.

TCEQ operator exams run at registered testing centers across Texas. Your application must be approved before you can book. Bring your approval letter and a non-programmable calculator. You get your score immediately with a printed analysis, and some centers offer one same-day retest after a fail.

The process in order

Complete your required course work and submit the TCEQ application with the fee through the online system (OLEA).
Wait for the approval letter. Booking comes after approval.
Contact a registered testing center to schedule. Centers operate across the TCEQ regions and set their own schedules; additional testing fees set by the center may apply, and some centers do not offer fee refunds.
On exam day, bring the approval letter and a non-programmable calculator. Scratch paper is provided and collected.
Leave with your score and a printed analysis. Passing candidates receive the license within a week.

The rules, with sources

Pre-approval comes first: 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'.)
What you may use: Authorized aids: pen or pencil; proctor-provided monitored scratch paper (collected); a non-programmable calculator. No formula sheet appears in the authorized-aids list.; Source: TCEQ Computer-Based Testing ('Authorized Aids During Licensing Exams'.)
Retesting rules: An approved applicant may retest after receiving the failed result. Some CBT sites offer one immediate same-day retest. The application expires after 365 days or four failures of the same examination, whichever occurs first. After expiration, a new application and fee are required.; Source: Texas Administrative Code, Title 30 (30 TAC §30.20, with the TCEQ computer-based testing page retesting statements.)
Results: Immediate exam score and printed analysis at the CBT center; the license is issued within one week of passing.; Source: TCEQ Computer-Based Testing ('CBT license examinations offer' bullet list.)
Time limit: Three-hour time limit.; Source: TCEQ Computer-Based Testing ('All exams have a 3 hour time limit unless otherwise noted'; Class A exams are the noted six-hour exception.)

The booking mistake

Calling a testing center before the application is approved. The centers schedule approved applicants; without the approval letter there is nothing to book. Apply first, then wait for the letter, then schedule.