Texas · Collection Systems
Texas Collection Systems Operator Certification Exam
In Texas, collection systems operators are certified by Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ). Here's exactly what the exam covers, how the grade levels work, and how to pass the first time.
Applied math is a significant part of the Texas collection systems 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.
Texas exam logistics
| Certifying agency | Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) |
|---|---|
| Exam administered by | TCEQ (administered at approved testing centers) |
| Renewal cycle | 3 years |
| Continuing education | Water/wastewater: 30 training hours (3.0 CEUs) per 3-year renewal for most classes; Class A/B may require more. |
Texas collection systems grades
Texas uses its own grade nomenclature. Pick your level for exam specifics and practice questions.
What the exam covers
- Gravity sewer design and maintenance
- Lift stations and force mains
- Inflow and infiltration (I&I)
- Sewer cleaning and CCTV inspection
- Manhole rehabilitation
- Confined space entry and safety
- Odor and corrosion control
- Sanitary sewer overflow (SSO) response
The math on the Collection Systems exam
These calculations are commonly included in collection systems 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.
- Pipe slope and velocity
- Wet well volume and pump cycle time
- Flow rate (Manning's equation basics)
- Pump horsepower
- Force main detention time
- Infiltration rate (gpd per inch-mile)
Free collection systems practice questions
Sample questions with full explanations for every grade.
Take the practice quiz →Frequently asked questions
- What are the collection systems operator grades in Texas?
- In Texas, collection systems operators are certified as Class I, Class II, Class III. These correspond to the national Grade 1 through Grade 4 progression.
- Who certifies collection systems operators in Texas?
- Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) certifies collection systems operators in Texas. The written exam is administered by TCEQ (administered at approved testing centers).
- What is on the Texas collection systems operator exam?
- The exam covers Gravity sewer design and maintenance, Lift stations and force mains, Inflow and infiltration (I&I), Sewer cleaning and CCTV inspection, and more — plus applied math such as Pipe slope and velocity, Wet well volume and pump cycle time, Flow rate (Manning's equation basics).
- How do I renew a collection systems certification in Texas?
- Texas certifications renew every 3 years. Water/wastewater: 30 training hours (3.0 CEUs) per 3-year renewal for most classes; Class A/B may require more.