How to become a Certified Installer/Pumper

  • 1. Review the Requirements
    • Be employed by a certified company. 
      • Pumper companies must also have a current County Septage Removal Permit.
    • Be at least 18 years of age or older.
    • Receive at least 70 points on either the residential and/or pumper exam.
    • Submit completed application.

    NOTES:

    • If you are certified in another state, you must also get certified in Georgia if you want to work in Georgia. 
    • Previously certified and expired LESS than 2 years ago? Renew. Do not retest.  
    • Previously certified and expired MORE than 2 years ago? Reapply and retest.
    • View our certification flow chart for a visual of the certification steps. 
  • 2. Study For and Schedule the Exam(s)

    As a contractor you must demonstrate knowledge of all standards and criteria found in the DPH Manual for On-site Sewage Management Systems.

    Installers, focus on: 
      Section A- Rules and Regulations
      Section D- Pretreatment
      Section E- Effluent Distribution and Dosing Devices
      Section F- Dispersal  

    Septic Tank Pumpers, focus on:
      Section I- Removal and Disposal

    Portable Sanitation Pumpers, focus on:
      Rule 511-3-6 

    Contact your   County Environmental Health Office  to schedule your exam.

    NOTES:

    • You must pass at least the Residential Exam to install and the Pumper Exam if you are going to pump septic tanks.
    • Additional exams are required for installing Commercial systems, Subsurface Drip Systems, and Mounds.  
  • 3. Submit Applications
    1. Complete the   Contractor Application   
       
    2. Bring the application with you to your scheduled exam(s).  

    NOTE: Not already under an already existing certified company? Complete the    Company Application   and pay the Company Fee online.  

    Do not pay the company fee until you have passed the exam AND you have submitted the company application. 

  • 4. Pay Company Fee (if starting a new company)

    Pro-rated Certification Fees for NEW companies in 2023:

    Installer Company:     $200 
    Pumper Company: $200 
    Installing AND Pumping Company: $400

    Portable Sanitation Pumping Only Company: $150

    Call 404-657-6534 to get an online link for payment.

  • Additional Information
    • If you were previously certified and have been non-certified for over 2 years, you must reapply and retest. 
       
    • If you are changing companies, need to change your contact information, or have any questions about certification, please email: [email protected] or call the State Environmental Health Office at 404-657-6534.
       
    • Additional FAQs about certification.