Backflow prevention assembly testers (BPATs) are trained to test and repair backflow prevention assemblies and play an important role in protecting the public water system. To test backflow prevention assemblies (BPAs) in the Austin Water Utility distribution area, BPATs must be licensed by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) and registered with Austin Water Utility.
The Water Protection Program has modified the Backflow Prevention Assembly Tester registration process and is no longer accepting in-person registrations. Please review the “Registering Your BPAT License and Test Gauge with Austin Water Utility” information below to see how to register via mail or email. If you have any question, please call 512-972-1060. Thank you!
BPAT License and Registration Requirements
- To receive a TCEQ BPAT license, applicants must complete a 40-hour backflow prevention license course accredited and accepted by the TCEQ, pass the TCEQ license exam, and pay the applicable TCEQ license fee.
- After receiving the TCEQ license, the BPAT must complete and submit the following:
- An Austin Water Water Protection Technician Registration Application.
- A Backflow Gauge Registration Form for the test gauge the applicant will use. If the tester will be using their employers existing registered gauges, then a gauge registration form is not required.
- A photo of the front and back of the test gauge.
- A certificate showing that the test gauge was tested and passed calibration requirements within the last 12 months.
- If approved, the BPAT’s City registration shall remain in effect for the duration of the TCEQ license (not to exceed three years).
- The BPAT must complete 24 hours of TCEQ-accredited continuing education, including 8 hours of practical skills to renew the TCEQ BPAT license.
- After renewing the license, the BPAT must email proof of renewal to awcrossconnection@austintexas.gov.
- The BPAT must notify Austin Water of any changes to their Technician Details, by submitting a new registration form with the new information by mail or email.
Registering Your BPAT License and Test Gauge with Austin Water Utility
The required documents to register your BPAT license and test gauge are:
- A copy of your current TCEQ BPAT license.
- A copy of your driver’s license or passport.
- A completed Water Protection Technician Registration Application, including a current email address.
- A completed Backflow Gauge Registration Form. If the tester will be using their employers existing registered gauges, then a gauge registration form is not required.
- A photo of the front and back of the test gauge.
- A current calibration certificate.
Incomplete or unsigned forms will not be processed.
To register, submit the required information by mail to:
Austin Water, Special Services Division
3907 South Industrial Dr, Suite 100
Austin, TX 78744
or by email to awcrossconnection@austintexas.gov
When the documents are received, the Water Protection staff will enter your BPAT license and gauge registration in the WEIRS database. Afterwards, a Water Protection Specialist will email instructions on how to:
- Correctly fill out Test and Maintenance Report (TMR) forms
- Navigate through the WEIRS Database with your WEIRS username and password
- Access the Water Protection Group website for information, forms and more
- Submit TMRs electronically in the WEIRS Database or by mail
- Re-register/Update tester information
If you have any questions on the registration process, please call at 512-972-1060.