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Wastewater Operator License in Maryland

Maryland requires a state-level wastewater operator license. The licensing authority is State Dept of Environmental Quality. The median salary is $58,227 per year.

Last updated 2026-05-08

Experience
— months
Exam Fee
$50
Passing Score
70%
Avg Salary
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What are the wastewater operator license requirements in Maryland?

01

Maryland requires a wastewater operator to hold a state license. Operate and maintain wastewater treatment plants to ensure compliance with environmental regulations. Licensing is administered by the State Dept of Environmental Quality.

Minimum Age18 years old
EducationState-approved training + operator-in-training period
Experience DetailsState-approved training + operator-in-training period

What exam do you need for a wastewater operator license in Maryland?

02

Maryland requires passing the Maryland Wastewater Operator Certification Exam with a minimum score of 70%. The application fee is $50.

Exam NameMaryland Wastewater Operator Certification Exam
Passing Score70%
Code EditionWastewater Operator Certification Exam
Application Fee$50

How do you get a wastewater operator license in Maryland?

03

Getting licensed as a wastewater operator in Maryland takes 24 months on the typical path. Here are the steps.

1
Register with the state
Register with State Dept of Environmental Quality before beginning work.
2
Accumulate required experience
Complete — months of supervised work experience.
3
Apply for the exam
Submit your application and $50 fee through the state portal.
4
Pass the exam
questions, 70% to pass.
5
Receive your license
After passing, your license will be issued. Renew every 2 years.

How much does a wastewater operator license cost in Maryland?

04

The total cost includes an exam application fee of $50 and renewal fees of $50 every 2 years. Continuing education of 20 hours is required per renewal cycle.

FeeAmount
Exam Application$50
License Renewal$50 every 2 years
Continuing Education20 hours

How much do wastewater operators make in Maryland?

05

Wastewater Operators in Maryland earn a median salary of $58,227, which is less than the national average. Data from BLS OEWS May 2024.

25th Percentile
Median
$58,227
75th Percentile
Mean (average)— / year
Entry level (10th pct)
Top earners (90th pct)
Total employed— in Maryland
National average$53,420

Frequently Asked Questions

07

Is a license required to work as a wastewater operator in Maryland?

Yes — Maryland requires a state-level wastewater operator license. Operate and maintain wastewater treatment plants to ensure compliance with environmental regulations.

What exam is required for a wastewater operator license in Maryland?

The required exam is the Maryland Wastewater Operator Certification Exam. You need a score of 70% to pass. The exam fee is $50.

How much do wastewater operators make in Maryland?

The median annual salary for wastewater operators in Maryland is $58,227. The national median is $53,420.

What are the continuing education requirements for wastewater operators in Maryland?

Maryland requires 20 hours of continuing education for license renewal every 2 years.

How long does it take to get a wastewater operator license in Maryland?

The fastest path takes approximately 6 months. The typical path takes 24 months including experience requirements.

Related

Data last verified April 2026. Requirements may change — always verify with the State Dept of Environmental Quality.