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How to Get a Water Treatment Operator License in Iowa

Water Treatment Operator license requirements in Iowa — experience, exams, fees, reciprocity, and salary data from State Dept of Environmental Quality.

Experience
— months
Exam Fee
$50
Passing Score
70%
Avg Salary
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Requirements

01
Water Treatment Operator — Operate and maintain water treatment plants to ensure safe drinking water supply.
Minimum Age18 years old
EducationState-approved training + operator-in-training period
Experience DetailsState-approved training + operator-in-training period

Exam Details

02
Exam NameIowa Water Treatment Operator Certification Exam
Passing Score70%
Code EditionWater Treatment Operator Certification Exam
Application Fee$50

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How to Apply

03
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.

Fees & Renewal

04
FeeAmount
Exam Application$50
License Renewal$50 every 2 years
Continuing Education20 hours

Salary Data

06

Water Treatment Operators in Iowa earn less than the national average. Data from BLS OEWS May 2024.

25th Percentile
Median
$47,543
75th Percentile
Mean (average)— / year
Entry level (10th pct)
Top earners (90th pct)
Total employed— in Iowa
National average$53,420

Related

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