About Certified Backflow Testers
In order to protect our drinking water quality and prevent the spread of infectious disease and other contaminants, mechanical backflow prevention assemblies are utilized to prevent used, unclean or contaminated water or substances from entering the potable / domestic water system. To prevent contamination, it may be necessary to install testable backflow prevention assemblies to prevent backflow from occurring. In Los Angeles County, these assemblies must be tested every year by a backflow tester certified by the County of Los Angeles.
Any individual who tests, repairs or installs testable backflow prevention assemblies within the County of Los Angeles must possess a current Los Angeles County backflow tester certification.
The Cross Connections & Water Pollution Control Program is responsible for certifying all backflow testers in Los Angeles County, which includes administering the initial certification test and renewing\recertifying backflow testers every two years.
All certified backflow testers that work anywhere in the County of Los Angeles must be certified by the Department of Public Health – Cross Connection & Water Pollution Control Program.
Certified Backflow Prevention Device Tester
To become a Certified Backflow Tester, an individual must complete and pass a practical examination every two years. Applicants are required to demonstrate their ability to test double check valve assemblies, test reduced pressure principle backflow prevention devices, inspect pressure type vacuum breakers, and evaluate spill resistant pressure vacuum breakers.
Upon successful completion of the examination, the certification is valid for a two year period.
To qualify for the examination, an applicant must:
- Provide a copy of successfully passing a formal backflow prevention course
- Be employed by a California State Licensed Contractor or possess a State Contractor's License
- Submit a Certified Backflow Tester Application with fee of $340.00 (checks/money orders payable to: Los Angeles County Public Health ).
Exams are scheduled after the Application and fee are submitted. Public Health administers the exam about three times each month at the Backflow Testing Laboratory in Baldwin Park.
Certified Backflow Prevention Device Testers must be reviewed by Public Health every two years. The re-certification fee is also $340.00.
Employer of Certified Backflow Prevention Device Tester
Report a Problem
Call (626) 430-5290 or 888-700-9995 for questions or to report problems. You can also File a Complaint Online
Contact Us
Monday - Friday
8:00am - 5:00pm
Tel: (626) 430-5290
Fax: (626) 813-3025
Email: CCWPCP@ph.lacounty.gov
County of Los Angeles Public Health
Environmental Health
Cross Connections & Water Pollution Control Program
5050 Commerce Drive
Baldwin Park, CA 91706