Backflow Licensing, Certification & Exam Requirements For Arkansas, Texas & Louisiana

Everything you need to know about licensing, exams, training requirements, and contacts for Arkansas, Texas & Louisiana backflow operators.

Important Licensing Information

If you plan to take a Licensure Exam following a Backflow Class, you Must contact the ADH Protective Health Codes Division. Applications must be received by ADH prior to the exam date.

  • Arkansas Backflow Licensing Information

    Backflow Prevention Assembly Tester certification in Arkansas is administered by the Arkansas Department of Health (ADH) through the Protective Health Codes and Engineering Sections.


    Key Requirements

    • Completion of an approved backflow training course
    • Successful completion of written and practical examinations
    • Application must be submitted to ADH prior to testing
    • Certification is required to test, repair, or maintain backflow prevention assemblies

    Licensing & Exam Coordination

    Applicants must contact ADH prior to scheduling an exam. Applications must be received before the exam date.  ADH Website →


    Protective Health Codes Section (Backflow Licensing) Contact:

    Ricky Mayhan

    • Phone: (501) 661-2642
    • Email: Ricky.Mayhan@arkansas.gov

    William Sims

    • Phone: (501) 661-2648
    • Email: William.Sims@arkansas.gov

    Engineering Section (Cross-Connection Control Program) Contact:

    Robert Reaves

    • Phone: (501) 661-2623
    • Email: Robert.Reaves@arkansas.gov
  • Texas Backflow Licensing Information

    Backflow Prevention Assembly Tester (BPAT) certification in Texas is regulated by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ).


    Key Requirements

    • Completion of an approved BPAT training course
    • Successful completion of written and practical exams
    • Application and testing must be completed through TCEQ-approved providers
    • Certification must be maintained through renewal and continuing education

    Licensing & Exam Coordination

    Applicants must complete training and pass both written and practical exams through an approved provider prior to certification. 


    TCEQ Licensing Contact

    • Phone: (512) 239-6133
    • Email: licenses@tceq.texas.gov
    • Website →
  • Louisiana Backflow Licensing Information

    Backflow certification in Louisiana is administered by the Louisiana State Plumbing Board (LSPB) under the Water Supply Protection Specialist program.


    Key Requirements

    • Completion of an approved training course
    • Successful completion of required certification exams
    • Licensing is required for installation, testing, and repair of assemblies
    • Certification must be maintained through renewal requirements

    Licensing & Exam Coordination

    Applicants must complete approved training and pass required exams through the Louisiana State Plumbing Board.


    Louisiana Backflow (WSPS) Contact


    LDH Engineering / Cross-Connection Contact:

    Jeremy Harris, E.I.

    Phone: (225) 342-7471

    Email: Jeremy.harris@la.gov

Accreditations & Training

Backflow training provided by the Arkansas Environmental Training Academy is aligned with state and industry requirements.

Training is available:

  • On campus
  • At locations statewide
  • Via Zoom
  • Online

Important Notes: Licensing requirements vary by state

  • Licensing and certification requirements vary by state and must be completed through the appropriate regulatory agency
  • Training and class requirements may differ by state and certification level
  • Training courses prepare you for certification but do not replace state licensing requirements
  • Always contact the appropriate agency prior to scheduling an exam or training