Frequently Asked Questions - Kentucky Energy and Environment Cabinet

This page features questions that the Operator Certification Program routinely receive. If you have a question regarding drinking water or wastewater operator certification that isn't listed on this page, please contact the Certification and Licensing Branch.

Where do I mail my application for certification, renewal or class registration and fee?

Certification and Licensing Branch
Operator Certification Program
300 Sower Blvd. Frankfort, KY 40601

To whom should my check or money order be made payable?

Checks or money orders should be made payable to the Kentucky State Treasurer.

I haven't received my approval letter, should I just show up for the class and/or exam?

No. There may have been a delay in processing, a deficiency in your application or the class and/or exam event may be full. You should contact the Certification and Licensing Branch by phone 502-564-3170 or email kyocp@ky.gov to check the status of your application submittal. If your application request has not been approved or processed, you will not be permitted to attend the event.

Do I need to register for the class with the Operator Certification Program or with the Certified Training Provider?

Operators will continue to register for testing events through the Kentucky EEC eForms (https://dep.gateway.ky.gov/eForms) with the Operator Certification Program. However, if they wish to attend a certification class, they must sign up directly with the respective training provider listed on the training schedule. Due to the limited certification training and exam events scheduled, these events are reserved for those who plan to attend the class and exam.

How detailed should my job description be?

The program wants to know what operational experience you have. A generic job description will not be specific enough related to your daily activities in the operation of the plant where you work. List all of your operational duties with the percentage of time you spend working on these duties. This information will be used by the Operator Certification Program technical staff to evaluate your experience and how it compares to the regulations. Also, be sure to list daytime contact information, including an e-mail address, if available. This is helpful if the trainers have any questions about your application.

I submitted an application and need to reschedule. What should I do?

Contact the Operator Certification Program to reschedule. Exam fees are non-refundable. Fees cannot be applied towards another operators registration.

If my proof of education (diploma, transcript or certificate) has already been submitted, do I have to resubmit it again with a new application?

No, you do not have to resubmit your proof of education unless you have completed additional education and it is required for the upgrade in your certification. Just note that the proof of education is on file with the Operator Certification Program.

I have recently changed jobs. Do I need to contact the Operator Certification Program?

Yes, according to 401 KAR11:020, the certified operator shall provide written notification to the division within 30 days. Operators and facilities should utilize the Facility Update eForm 136 to report any employment changes for their operators. This streamlined tool is the go-to method for allowing operators and facilities to effortlessly communicate certified operator employment changes to their facilities, ensuring compliance and seamless communication with regulatory bodies. For more information refer to the Facility Update fact sheet and eForm 136 SOP.

I took a test and didn't pass. What are my options?

You can submit a new application to the Operator Certification Program to apply for a retest through Kentucky EEC eForms (https://dep.gateway.ky.gov/eForms).

Can I call the Operator Certification Program after I take my exam to get my score?

No. Test scores will not be given out over the telephone. This change was made to protect the privacy of the individual test applicants. The pass list will be posted on the exam results webpage.

I tried to renew my license online, but my address is different than what is shown online. Can I still renew?

Before you will be able to renew online, you will need to notify the Operator Certification Program of the change in your mailing address. This is necessary because the address on record is where your wallet card will be mailed. You must submit the change in writing. This can be sent via e-mail to kyocp@ky.gov.

Where can I obtain continuing education hours?

The Operator Certification Program offers continuing education classes for operators. Classes will be announced through the Operation Matters Blog once they become available.

You may also take classes from CEU training providers that have obtained approval for continuing education credit. To find CEU training providers, visit our Training Provider Information page, where you'll find a comprehensive list of approved providers and courses. This resource highlights a variety of options, including many online courses, making it easier for you to fulfill your continuing education requirements conveniently and efficiently.

How many continuing education hours do I have?

Operators can check their continuing education hours online. They can also check the status of their license and verify their license number and agency interest number. To use this tool, go to the department's E-Search website.

What baccalaureate degree programs are approved to satisfy the regulatory education requirements for a Class IV certification?

Operators can refer to the Approved Degree Programs for Wastewater and Drinking Water Certification document, which contains a list of the approved degrees.

Call: 502-564-3170