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MWWA ToolkitWater and Wastewater Operator Certification Levels - Requirements Overview |
Use this page to understand which certification level applies to you, and what is required at each stage.This is a reference guide only. Applications and exams are submitted separately. |
NEWS EXCITING UPDATES FROM THE MANITOBA WATER AND WASTEWATER FACILITY OPERATORS CERTIFICATION PROGRAMUpdated Standardized Exams Launching in September 2026! Water and Wastewater Certification Program are pleased to announce the introduction of the latest standardized certification exams for all Class I to Class IV water and wastewater operator categories. These updated exams have been developed to align with current industry standards and support consistency across jurisdictions, helping strengthen professional recognition and labour mobility. As you are aware, the new exams also address recommendations in the Certification Advisory Committee report and Implementation Update. The online exam experience remains familiar and accessible, with a passing grade of 70% and 110 questions per exam. Operators can access the Need-to-Know Criteria and additional preparation resources through the WPI website. New Online Exam Registration System The EAB are also excited to introduce a new online exam registration and payment process designed to make registration easier and more efficient. Employers and operators can now submit applications and payments for multiple operators and multiple exams through a single streamlined process. For important details and step-by-step instructions, please refer to the Exam Registration Guideline. Quick Links |
Apply for certification:Application for Operator Certification →Operator Recertification Form → Training and CEUs:MWWA Training Options →Manitoba CEU Guidelines →Apply for Reciprocity:Reciprocity Application → | Register for an exam:Application for Exam Registration →View exam date:Manitoba Exam Schedule →Pay exam fees:Manitoba Online Payment Portal → |
OIT Certificate |
This is the entry point for most new operators. You must:Be currently employed at a water or wastewater facility. ✓OR have completed a Director-approved operator course. ✓Note: Operators typically start at OIT unless exempt under Section 23(2).Requirements |
EducationGrade 10 (Small System) ✓Grade 12 (Class 1-4) ✓ | ExamNot required. | Operating ExperienceNot required. |
Small System Certificate |
This certification applies to small systems only. You must:Meet minimum education requirements. ✓Note: Ideally operators begin at OIT unless exempt under Section 23(2). |
Requirements |
EducationGrade 10 (Small System) ✓Grade 12 (Class 1-4) ✓ | Operating Experience6 months ✓Substitution may be allowed. |
Class 1 Certificate |
This is the first full class-level certification. You must: |
Requirements |
EducationGrade 12 (Class 1-4) ✓ | Operating Experience1 year ✓No substitutions allowed. |
Class 2 Certificate |
You must:Already hold a Class 1 Certificate. ✓ |
Requirements |
EducationGrade 12 (Class 1-4) ✓ | Operating Experience3 years ✓Substitutions may be allowed. |
Class 3 Certificate |
You must:Already hold a Class 2 Certificate. ✓ |
Requirements |
Education2 years post secondary ✓or 90 CEUs ✓Substitutions may be allowed. | Operating Experience4 years in a Class 2 or higher facility ✓AND DRC experience:2 years while holding a Class 2 certificate ✓Substitutions may be allowed. |
Class 4 Certificate |
You must:Already hold a Class 3 Certificate. ✓ |
Requirements |
Education4 years post secondary ✓or 180 CEUs ✓Substitutions may be allowed. | Operating Experience4 years in a Class 3 or higher facility ✓AND DRC experience:2 years while holding a Class 3 certificate ✓Substitutions may be allowed. |
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Need Help?If you are unsure which certification applies to you or whether substitutions are allowed: |
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