How to Get a Septic Tank License in Georgia
- 1). Study the sewage contractor exam guide provided by the Georgia Department of Community Health's Environmental Health Department. The guide is available online. You can take classes in septic tank installation and management at community colleges, technical schools and certain four-year institutions. Contact schools in your area to find out about septic tank installation training. Georgia Southern University (georgiasouthern.edu) offers an online training course.
- 2). Apply to take the state's septic tank contractor exam and pay the test fee. You must be at least 18 years old to sit for the exam. You must also be employed as a contractor with a state-certified septic tank company and provide your employer's certification number on your application. Applicants can request special assistance to take the written test, permission to take an oral exam and/or have the test administered in a language other than English.
- 3). Mail your application and fee to the Environmental Health Office in Atlanta. The address is listed on the bottom of the application. The state sends details on test date appointments and locations to you after the application is processed.
- 4). Pass the exam with a score of at least 70 points to receive certification. Applicants who pass the exam receive a 21-day temporary license. The state mails a numbered certification card within two weeks after the exam and receipt of the exam fee. The certification must be renewed every two years in even-numbered years.
- 5). Complete continuing education classes before the renewal period. The Georgia Department of Community Health lists state-approved continuing education providers on its website.
- 6). Contact the Environmental Health division of the Georgia Department of Community Health after every septic tank installation. The state inspects all installations and issues written approvals if the construction adheres to state regulations. It's a misdemeanor to use a septic tank before a public health inspector approves installation. The state decertifies septic tank installers who don't abide by this rule.