Streamlined Licensing for Onsite Wastewater Professionals in Virginia
Virginia’s new reciprocal framework allows onsite wastewater professionals to significantly expedite the licensing process by first qualifying in North Carolina.
Beginning July 1, 2024, Virginia implemented transformative changes to its licensing procedures for onsite sewage system professionals. These updates—established through Senate Bill 554, signed by the Governor in March—are designed to modernize the profession, reduce bureaucratic barriers, and strengthen the state’s workforce.
One of the most impactful changes is the introduction of a reciprocal licensing pathway with North Carolina, creating a fast, practical route for qualified professionals to become licensed in Virginia.
Fast-Tracking Virginia Licensing via North Carolina
Virginia’s new reciprocal framework allows onsite wastewater professionals to significantly expedite the licensing process by first qualifying in North Carolina.
Onsite Wastewater Professionals (OWP) offers an accelerated 24-Hour Installer Course that equips participants with the credentials needed to obtain a North Carolina Installer license quickly. OWP also offers a similar path for Operators, though one year of experience operating systems will be required in order to qualify for the Operator license after completing the 24-Hour Subsurface Wastewater Operator Course.
Once licensed in North Carolina, professionals can apply directly for Virginia licensure through the newly simplified process—saving time, avoiding redundant exams, and bypassing previous multi-year requirements.
Learn more about becoming licensed in Virginia and to register for the 24-Hour Installer course to get started.
Reciprocal Licensing Criteria
To qualify for Virginia’s new streamlined pathway, applicants must:
- Hold a current, valid license from a NC
- Be in good standing, with:
- No pending investigations
- No unresolved complaints
- Meet Virginia’s criminal background standards with no disqualifying offenses.
- Have no disciplinary actions, other than minor financial penalties.
These criteria ensure that only capable and reputable professionals benefit from the fast-tracked process.
Key Benefits of Senate Bill 554
Virginia’s updated licensing structure offers major advantages for both professionals and the state:
✔ Enhanced Professional Mobility
Skilled installers and practitioners can move more easily across state lines, opening new business opportunities.
✔ Reduced Redundancy
Applicants no longer need to repeat examinations or undergo duplicative requirements already satisfied through North Carolina licensure.
✔ Workforce Expansion
By making licensure more accessible, Virginia strengthens its pool of qualified professionals—a critical need in many growing regions.
✔ Eliminates Previous Barriers
Holding a North Carolina Installer or Operator license now removes Virginia’s former experience requirement and exam requirement for DPOR licensure.
A Modernized Approach for a Modern Workforce
These changes reflect Virginia’s commitment to aligning regulatory processes with today’s workforce dynamics. By embracing reciprocity and recognizing equivalent licensing standards across state lines, the state is cultivating a more flexible, efficient, and responsive onsite wastewater industry.
For professionals, this is a pivotal moment—one that creates new career options, faster licensing, and streamlined credentialing.
Learn more about becoming licensed in Virginia and to register for the 24-Hour Installer course to get started.
Learn more about becoming licensed in Virginia and to register for the 24-Hour Operator course to get started.
