CPSWQ
CPSWQ - Certified Professional in StormWater Quality
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ExploreAbout this exam
The CPSWQ® (Certified Professional in StormWater Quality™) is a professional credential offered by EnviroCert International, Inc. (ECI), a non-profit organization. According to ECI, the CPSWQ identifies professionals with a comprehensive knowledge and understanding of stormwater and erosion control regulations, and certified stormwater professionals are recognized by state and federal regulators as qualified professionals in their field. The certification is intended to ensure certificants meet Federal requirements, including the US EPA NPDES definition of "Qualified Personnel," and have the knowledge and experience to ensure projects meet State and local regulatory requirements. The program addresses the regulatory framework and technical implementation and management of stormwater for three main target areas: construction, municipal, and industrial stormwater programs. It covers all phases of stormwater management, including planning, design, construction, implementation, observation, maintenance, and inspection. Successful certificants have been evaluated and tested on topics such as Federal regulations, stormwater pollutants, stream environments, watershed hydrology, quantification (pollutant removal), construction/municipal/industrial BMPs and design techniques, CSOs, and inspection, maintenance, and solids management. The credential is aimed at professionals who inspect erosion and sediment control and stormwater compliance. ECI states that CPSWQ certification is a requirement on many projects and specifications. To prepare, candidates should review ECI's CPSWQ Job Task Analysis and sample questions, and consult the program's requirements, fees, and processes. This page is an independent study resource and is not affiliated with or endorsed by ECI.
What you'll study
About CPSWQ preparation
What is the format of the CPSWQ exam?
ECI's CPSWQ page includes a link to sample questions, and ECI states that professional certification exams are available at Prometric Testing Centers with live proctoring. However, the source does not specify the number of questions, time limit, or passing score. Candidates should confirm current exam logistics directly with ECI.
How difficult is the CPSWQ exam?
The source does not provide a difficulty rating or pass rate. ECI describes certificants as rigorously trained and tested, and the exam covers a broad range of topics from federal regulations to hydrology, BMP design, and inspection. Expect a comprehensive, technical assessment; use the Job Task Analysis to focus your study.
What happens if I fail the CPSWQ exam? Is there a retake policy?
The source does not state a retake policy, waiting period, or fee for retakes. Contact ECI directly or check the Candidate Management System and program FAQ for the current policy before scheduling.
How long is the CPSWQ certification valid, and what are the renewal requirements?
The source does not specify a validity period or renewal cycle. ECI has a Renewals page and Professional Development Hours (PDH) opportunities, which suggests ongoing maintenance is required. Verify the current renewal requirements and PDH hours with ECI.
How much does the CPSWQ exam cost?
The source does not state the exam fee. ECI publishes a Program Fee Schedule and offers On Demand review bundles through Prometric. Check ECI's Fees page for the current fee schedule.
What topics should I study first for the CPSWQ exam?
Start with the CPSWQ Job Task Analysis, which ECI links from its CPSWQ page. The program covers federal regulations, stormwater pollutants, stream environments, watershed hydrology, quantification, BMPs for construction, municipal, and industrial programs, CSOs, and inspection/maintenance. Review sample questions to understand the question style.
What are common failure modes for CPSWQ candidates?
The source does not identify common failure modes. Based on the published content outline, candidates may struggle if they overlook the regulatory framework (NPDES, Phase I/II MS4s, industrial SIC codes and MSGP) or the technical calculations for hydrology and pollutant removal. Study all three program areas, not just your own.
Is CPSWQ the same as CPMSM or CPISM?
No. ECI lists CPSWQ, CPMSM (Municipal Stormwater Management), and CPISM (Industrial Stormwater Management) as separate professional certifications. CPSWQ covers construction, municipal, and industrial stormwater programs broadly, while CPMSM and CPISM focus on municipal and industrial programs respectively.
Where can I take the CPSWQ exam?
ECI states that professional certification exams are available at Prometric Testing Centers with live proctoring, and that On Demand review courses and exams can be scheduled through Prometric. Submit a Prometric Testing Request through the Candidate Management System (CMS). Confirm current availability with ECI.