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Circular secondary clarifier at a wastewater treatment plant

Florida · Wastewater Treatment · Class C

Florida Grade 1 Wastewater Treatment Operator Exam

The Florida Grade 1 wastewater treatment certification is designated Class C and issued by Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP). Entry-level certification for operators at small systems or working under direct supervision.

Photo: MADe, CC BY 3.0

Applied math is a significant part of the Florida Class C exam.

Practicing calculations like dosage, detention time, and loading before test day is one of the most effective ways to prepare, alongside reviewing your state’s official exam content outline.

Exam facts

Exam facts
Grade levelClass C
Questions100
Time limit120 minutes
Passing score70%
DifficultyEntry
Exam administered byFDEP (computer-based testing at approved centers)

Prerequisites for Class C

  • High school diploma or GED
  • 0–1 year of operating experience (varies by state)

Confirm exact requirements with Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP).

What's on the exam

  • Preliminary and primary treatment
  • Activated sludge process control
  • Secondary clarification
  • Nutrient removal (nitrogen, phosphorus)
  • Disinfection and dechlorination
  • Solids handling and biosolids
  • Basic operations and monitoring
  • Recordkeeping and reporting

The math on the Wastewater Treatment exam

These calculations are commonly included in wastewater treatment operator exam preparation and may appear on your exam depending on your certification level and state. Practicing them is one of the most effective ways to prepare.

  • Food-to-microorganism (F:M) ratio
  • Mean cell residence time (MCRT/SRT)
  • Sludge volume index (SVI)
  • Hydraulic and organic loading
  • Detention time
  • Pounds formula (lbs/day)

Free Class C practice questions

Sample questions with full explanations at this level.

Take the practice quiz →

Frequently asked questions

What is the Florida Grade 1 wastewater treatment certification called?
In Florida, the Grade 1 wastewater treatment certification is designated Class C, issued by Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP).
How many questions are on the exam and what score do I need?
The exam has about 100 questions with a 120-minute time limit, and you need 70% to pass. It is administered by FDEP (computer-based testing at approved centers).
What are the prerequisites for Class C in Florida?
Typical prerequisites: High school diploma or GED; 0–1 year of operating experience (varies by state). Exact requirements are set by Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP).