Texas, TCEQ, Water System Operator, Class D
How to become a Texas Class D water operator
Last reviewed 2026-08-01. Facts link to their official source.
To become a Texas Class D water operator you need a high school diploma or GED, then two approved courses: Basic Water Operations and Resiliency Overview. 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 Water System Operator Licensing ('Class D Licensing Requirements, Education and Work Experience'.)
- Approved courses
- Two approved courses: Basic Water Operations and Resiliency Overview (resiliency training is required for all water operators as of April 1, 2024; RG-637).
- Source: TCEQ Water System Operator Licensing (Page banner 'NEW As of April 1, 2024...' + '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 Water System Operator Licensing (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 Water 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 Water System Operator Licensing ('Provisional Water Class D Licensing Requirements'.)
Common questions
- How do you become a water operator in Texas?
- Get a high school diploma or GED, finish the approved Class D courses, apply to the TCEQ with the fee, and pass the Class D water exam. No prior work experience is required.
- Do you need a degree to be a water operator?
- No. Class D is the entry level and needs a high school diploma or GED, not a college degree.
- How long does it take to get a Class D license?
- Mostly the time to finish the required courses and wait for the TCEQ to approve your application, then pass the exam. There is no experience requirement to slow you down at Class D.
- How much does it cost?
- The TCEQ application fee is $111 for Class D, or $74 for the provisional version, plus the cost of the approved courses.