Licensing Guides
Arizona Septic License: How to Become a Septic Contractor in Arizona
Septic, AZ
Learn how to get a septic license in Arizona, how much it costs, and everything else you need to know.
Table of Contents
Licensing Requirements for Septic Contractors in Arizona
Types of Septic Licenses in Arizona
Steps to Get a Septic License in Arizona
Benefits of Getting a Septic License in Arizona
What Is the Mean Wage for a Septic Professional in Arizona?
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Septic License in Arizona?
How to Get a Septic License in Arizona
How Long Does It Take to Get a Septic Contractors License in Arizona?
Arizona Septic Training Programs and Schools
Arizona Septic Licensing Exam Details
How Can I Prepare for the Septic License Exam in Arizona?
Who Issues Septic Licenses in Arizona?
Does My Arizona Septic License Work in Any Other State?
What Are the Reciprocity Requirements for a Septic License in Arizona?
Septic-Specific Requirements in Arizona
National Septic Certifications
Other Requirements Unique to Arizona
Are There Septic Scholarships in Arizona?
How Can Someone Verify My Septic License in Arizona?
When Can a Septic License Get Suspended in Arizona?
What Are the Penalties for Unlicensed Septic Work in Arizona?
Continuing Education
We all need safe, reliable sewage management for our homes and businesses. Those homeowners and businesses that rely on septic tanks, also known as on-site sewage facilities (OSSF), depend on people who know how to install and maintain those systems. In Arizona, more than 600,000 homes are on a septic system, according to the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ).
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), there are 27,900 septic tank servicers and sewer pipe cleaners nationwide, and Arizona employs 300 of them.. The projected employment growth nationally is 8% (U.S. employment from 2024 to 2034), which corresponds to about 2,900 annual projected job openings for this occupation, according to CareerOneStop, the U.S. Department of Labor’s job search website. In the state of Arizona, the growth rate is projected to be much higher at 18%.
Contractors across the country struggle to find skilled tradespeople while demand for construction and infrastructure services continues to grow. Septic system installation and maintenance is a critical part of that infrastructure, particularly in Arizona's rapidly expanding communities. According to the Associated General Contractors of America, the construction industry in Arizona has seen significant employment gains in recent years. If you get the training you need, you should have a variety of jobs to choose from when you're ready.
A large part of what septic professionals do is install, maintain, and replace existing onsite wastewater systems. As more emphasis is placed on environmental protection and public health, properly functioning septic systems are essential.
If you’re thinking about starting a septic business or working in the field, you need to know the requirements in your state or local jurisdiction. This guide will help you determine what you need before you get started.
Licensing Requirements for Septic Contractors in Arizona
Is a license required to work as a septic contractor in Arizona? Yes. To perform commercial or residential septic system installations in Arizona, you must hold a CR-41 Septic Tanks and Systems license issued by the Arizona Registrar of Contractors (ROC). Arizona does not use an apprentice, journeyman, or master licensing ladder for septic work — the CR-41 is a contractor-level license.
Additionally, ADEQ has delegated authority for issuing onsite wastewater treatment facility (septic) permits to each of Arizona's 15 counties, which issue permits on behalf of ADEQ, so you must apply to the county where your property is located for each installation project.
Performing contracting work without a valid license is a Class 1 misdemeanor under A.R.S. § 32-1164, punishable by fines and potential jail time.
Types of Septic Licenses in Arizona
At the state level, Arizona offers the CR-41 Septic Tanks and Systems license, which is required to install or maintain septic tank systems. The license is issued by the Arizona Registrar of Contractors.
Unlike some states, Arizona does not issue separate state-level apprentice, journeyman, or master septic licenses. Instead, the state licenses contracting businesses and their designated qualifying party under the CR-41 classification. The qualifying party is the individual who demonstrates the required trade experience and passes the exams.
The state also mandates specific requirements or certifications to perform septic inspections, site evaluations, and other related tasks. Additionally, some counties have additional license types and requirements, so make sure to check local regulations where you plan to work.
CR-41 Septic Tanks and Systems License
The CR-41 Septic Tanks and Systems license permits the holder to perform excavation work and install new septic systems, oversee system design, repair and maintain existing systems, and connect septic systems to sewer lines.
This license is classified as a dual license (commercial & residential), meaning the contractor can work on both residential and commercial projects.
To qualify for licensure, you must demonstrate three years of work experience and also pass the Arizona Statute and Rules exam and Trade exam.
Supervision rules: The qualifying party named on the CR-41 license must be actively involved in the company's operations. All work performed under the license must be done under the authority of that qualifying party. If the qualifying party leaves the company, the license becomes invalid until a new qualifying party is approved by the ROC.
Limitations: A CR-41 license authorizes only septic tank and systems work. Any work outside this classification — such as general plumbing or excavation beyond septic scope — requires the appropriate separate license classification from the ROC.
Progression path: Since Arizona uses a single contractor-level license for septic work, there is no apprentice-to-master progression. However, individuals can gain experience working for a CR-41 licensed contractor before applying for their own license.
Steps to Get a Septic License in Arizona
Follow these steps to earn a septic contractor license in Arizona.
Register your business with the Arizona Corporation Commission.
Acquire three years of qualifying work experience.
Pass both the Arizona Statute and Rules exam and Trade exam.
Complete the licensed contractor background check form.
Obtain a contractor’s bond.
Pay all fees.
Submit the license application online or mail it to the ROC at 1700 W. Washington St., Suite 105, Phoenix, AZ 85007.
Benefits of Getting a Septic License in Arizona
There are many benefits to getting your Arizona septic contractor license:
Most important, it is required by law in Arizona. Performing septic contracting work without a license is a Class 1 misdemeanor under A.R.S. § 32-1164.
A trade license is proof of your experience and skill in the septic industry.
Only licensed septic contractors can operate a business and advertise services, obtain commercial insurance, pull building permits and pass inspections, and bid on public and government projects.
Having a license protects your company and your customers. Arizona's Residential Contractors' Recovery Fund provides a layer of consumer protection, but only for work performed by licensed contractors.
A license gives you a competitive advantage in the job market.
It also increases your earning potential, especially if you choose to start your own septic business.
What Is the Mean Wage for a Septic Professional in Arizona?
The annual mean wage for septic tank servicers and sewer pipe cleaners in Arizona is $46,500, and the national annual mean wage for the same occupation is $52,730, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
However, that salary can increase as you acquire more experience. In Arizona, according to the BLS, the wage range is:
10th percentile: $37,620
25th percentile: $40,210
Median (50th percentile): $46,450
75th percentile: $49,830
90th percentile: $61,970
The meaning of "mean wage" and "median salary" can be confusing. Here is the difference:
Mean wage tells you the mathematical average.
Median salary tells you the midpoint at which half of workers make less and half make more, and is usually a better indicator of what most people actually earn.
Salaries can vary widely depending on the city where you work and other factors like certifications, additional skills, the number of years you have spent in your profession, and whether you own your own business. If you choose to start a septic business, your earning potential can increase substantially as a business owner.
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Septic License in Arizona?
The fees for the CR-41 Septic Tanks and Systems license include: Application fee: $100, License fee: $380, Recovery Fund Assessment fee: $370, Statutes and Rules exam (SRE): $61, Trade exam: $66, Total Cost: $977 (excluding any additional exam-related transcript/program fees if applicable). Source: Arizona Registrar of Contractors (License and Renewal Fees).
In addition to the fees above, you should budget for the following contractor-specific costs:
Contractor's bond: Arizona requires a surety bond in an amount determined by your license classification and anticipated annual gross volume. The bond must be continuous (no termination date), and you will pay annual premiums to the bonding company to keep it in force.
Business registration: If your business is an LLC or corporation, you must register with the Arizona Corporation Commission, which involves a separate filing fee.
Background check: The ROC may require submission of fingerprints and associated fees for a state and federal criminal records check pursuant to A.R.S. § 32-1122.
Training and study materials: While Arizona does not require formal classroom training, candidates may choose to invest in exam preparation courses and reference books. Costs vary by provider.
Renewal costs (every two years) include the $380 license renewal fee and a $270 Recovery Fund Assessment fee, according to the ROC fee schedule.
What Business Owners Need to Know
Getting the most out of a septic installation technician, no matter where they are in their licensing journey, takes work. ServiceTitan cloud-based, all-in-one septic business software gives technicians and business owners the technology they need to do the work efficiently, and the data they need to do it smartly.
SMS communications that keep customers informed about the technician’s visit.
Location-specific service history, including recorded calls, accessible from the mobile app.
Required forms that ensure every job is done right, driving consistency.
The ability to build multi-option proposals with photos, on-site, in minutes.
Sales presentations that make conversations with customers easier and drive the average ticket.
Mobile payment acceptance, eliminating lost checks and increasing cash flow.
To learn more, schedule a demo with a product expert today.
How to Get a Septic License in Arizona
In Arizona, becoming a licensed septic contractor is straightforward but not fast. Here is the full career-path narrative:
WORK EXPERIENCE: Arizona requires the qualifying party to have a minimum of three years of practical or management trade experience in septic systems, according to A.R.S. § 32-1122. The ROC may accept technical training from an accredited college or university or a manufacturer's accredited training program as a substitute for a portion of this experience. Most people earn the required experience by working directly for a licensed CR-41 contractor.
PASS EXAMINATIONS: You must pass the required Arizona Registrar of Contractors examinations with a minimum passing score of 70% (including the AZ Statutes and Rules Training Course and Exam (SRE) through GMetrix, and the required trade exam(s) through PSI) and submit the original score report to the ROC for processing within two years from the date of passing. https://roc.az.gov/applying-for-a-license
APPLICATION PROCESS: The license application can be completed online or mailed to the ROC. You will need to submit your original exam score reports with your application. Once received, the ROC will send you a receipt with a pending number to track your application status.
BACKGROUND CHECK: Complete the licensed contractor background check form. The ROC may require a full set of fingerprints for a state and federal criminal records check.
CONTRACTOR-SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS: Before the license is issued, you must also obtain a contractor's surety bond, register your business entity with the Arizona Corporation Commission (for LLCs and corporations) or the Arizona Secretary of State (for partnerships), and pay all required fees.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Septic Contractors License in Arizona?
It will take a minimum of three years to qualify for the CR-41 Septic Tanks and Systems license. Candidates typically earn experience working for a licensed contractor or completing an internship.
While you are gaining the required three years of experience, you will be earning a wage working for a licensed septic contractor. As you acquire more knowledge and demonstrate your skills, your compensation will typically increase.
Once you have met the experience requirements, the examination and application process will take additional time. You must pass both the Statutes and Rules exam and the Trade exam, and then submit your license application to the ROC. Processing times vary, but you should plan for several weeks after submitting a complete application.
The great news is that once you are fully licensed, you can start your own septic business, be your own boss, and grow your business as much as you want. With Arizona's projected 18% growth rate for septic tank servicers, according to CareerOneStop, the demand for qualified contractors should remain strong.
Arizona Septic Training Programs and Schools
Because Arizona requires work experience instead of classroom training, most people earn the three years of necessary experience by working directly for a licensed contractor.
The University of Arizona offers an Onsite Wastewater training program for individuals who want to become septic tank inspectors.
Arizona does not require a formal apprenticeship program registered with the U.S. Department of Labor for septic contractors. Instead, the state accepts three years of practical trade experience, which most candidates earn on the job.
On-the-Job Expectations: While working under a licensed CR-41 contractor, you will need good customer service skills, be detail-oriented, have mechanical capability, and be physically fit because the job can include heavy lifting, digging, working in trenches, and long hours in outdoor conditions.
Program Prerequisites: To apply for the CR-41 license, the ROC requires that the qualifying party demonstrate the required trade experience. There is no formal educational prerequisite beyond what is needed to pass the exams.
Workforce Development: Arizona's BuildItAZ Apprenticeship Initiative aims to double the number of construction trades registered apprentices in Arizona to support the state's growing economy. While this initiative is primarily focused on trades like electrical and general construction, it reflects the state's overall commitment to building a skilled trades workforce.
Arizona Septic Licensing Exam Details
To qualify for a septic license, you must pass the Statutes and Rules Training exam via GMetrix. The fee is $61; the exam covers Title 32, Chapter 10 of the Arizona Revised Statutes, and Title 4, Chapter 9 of the Arizona Administrative Code.
You also need to pass the relevant Trade exam through PSI. The exam fee is $66 paid directly to PSI.
Passing Score: The qualifying party must pass each required examination with a minimum score of 70%, according to the Arizona Registrar of Contractors.
Exam Format: The Trade exam is administered via computer at PSI testing centers. The SRE (Statutes and Rules Training Course and Exam) is an open-book, computer-based course offered only online through GMetrix. Trade exams through PSI are open book — you may bring approved reference materials tabbed with permanent tabs only. No handwritten notes or temporary tabs (such as Post-It notes) are permitted.
Testing Locations: PSI operates a network of computer examination centers throughout Arizona — including locations in the Phoenix metro area, Tucson, and Yuma — as well as testing centers in many areas throughout the United States, according to the PSI Candidate Information Bulletin.
Scheduling Process: To schedule your Trade exam, register online at PSI's website. Create an account, enter your zip code to find the nearest testing center, and select an available date. You must bring two forms of identification to the testing center, one of which must be a valid government-issued photo ID.
Retake Policy: Candidates must wait 30 days before retaking an exam they did not pass. Candidates are allowed three attempts; after a fourth failed attempt, there is a 90-day waiting period before retaking.
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How Can I Prepare for the Septic License Exam in Arizona?
Preparation is key to passing both required exams on your first attempt.
Statutes and Rules Training Course and Exam (SRE): This online open-book course covers Title 32, Chapter 10 of the Arizona Revised Statutes and Title 4, Chapter 9 of the Arizona Administrative Code. Because the SRE is a training course followed by the exam, you will study the material as part of the course itself before being tested. For assistance with the SRE platform, contact GMetrix at 801-323-5800.
CR-41 Trade Exam: The Trade exam is administered by PSI and covers subjects specific to septic tank installation, repair, excavation, and system design. You are allowed to bring approved reference materials into the testing center. References may be tabbed with permanent tabs only — temporary tabs such as Post-It notes are not permitted. Highlighting is acceptable, but you may not write in your reference materials during the exam.
Reference Materials: The specific reference books permitted for the CR-41 exam are listed in the PSI exam content outline for CR-41. Be sure to review the most current version of the PSI Candidate Information Bulletin, as approved references may change.
Study Tips:
Take notes on what you study. Putting information in writing helps you commit it to memory.
Familiarize yourself with the layout and content of each approved reference book so you can quickly locate information during the open-book exam.
Discuss new terms or concepts with colleagues or mentors in the industry.
Get plenty of rest the night before the test.
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The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality is responsible for issuing permits for the installation of on-site wastewater systems and delegates this responsibility to each of the 15 local county health departments.
All septic installations must comply with the Arizona Administrative Code (AAC) R18-9-A314 for on-site wastewater treatment facilities. A septic permit is required for all septic installations, including DIY projects at your home. For more information, visit the ADEQ website at www.azdeq.gov.
To perform septic tank and systems work, the Arizona Registrar of Contractors’ CR-41 Septic Tanks and Systems license classification covers the permitted scope of work for septic tanks, aerobic digesters, and leaching fields (commercial and residential).
Does My Arizona Septic License Work in Any Other State?
No, your Arizona CR-41 Septic Tanks and Systems license does not automatically work in any other state. Each state has its own licensing requirements, and you will need to apply for a license in any other state following that state's specific rules.
However, Arizona does have limited reciprocity agreements with certain states (see below), which may allow you to waive the trade exam requirement when applying in those states. Likewise, pursuant to A.R.S. § 32-4302, Arizona may grant a license to a person who has been licensed in another state for at least 12 months in the same discipline and at the same practice level, provided certain conditions are met.
What Are the Reciprocity Requirements for a Septic License in Arizona?
Arizona has partial reciprocity agreements with California, Nevada, and Utah for contractor licenses. These agreements allow contractors who are already licensed in one of those states to waive the trade exam requirement when applying for an Arizona contractor license.
However, reciprocity is not automatic or full. You must still:
Complete the AZ Statutes and Rules Training Course and Exam (SRE)
Meet all other Arizona application requirements, including work experience, bonding, background check, and fees
Submit a completed license application to the Arizona Registrar of Contractors
Additionally, under A.R.S. § 32-4302, Arizona may grant a license to a person who has been licensed in another state for at least 12 months in the same discipline and at the same practice level, subject to additional conditions. For exam waivers, contact the ROC Licensing Department at 1-877-692-9762.
Septic-Specific Requirements in Arizona
Comprehensive Septic Tank Inspection Program
In order to safeguard public health and protect the groundwater supply, Arizona requires a Transfer of Ownership Inspection by a qualified inspector before the purchase of any real estate.
The ADEQ “requires any person transferring a property served by an on-site wastewater treatment facility to have an inspection of the facility performed before the transfer of ownership.” This requirement applies to any property served by conventional septic systems, or an alternative system.
The buyer must submit a Notice of Transfer form to the ADEQ, and the contractor who performs the site investigation must issue an official Report of Inspection, unless a Discharge Authorization permit was previously issued for the system.
Qualified inspectors must possess working knowledge of the specific system type, obtain a certificate of training from a course recognized by ADEQ and in collaboration with the University of Arizona, and hold one of the following contractor licenses: Registered Sanitarian, Registered Engineer, or CR-41.
All septic installations in Arizona must also comply with Arizona Administrative Code (AAC) R18-9-A314 for on-site wastewater treatment facilities, and a septic permit must be obtained from the local county health department before work begins.
National Septic Certifications
Other certifications can help you demonstrate your proficiency to potential employers and clients. The National Association of Wastewater Technicians and The National Onsite Wastewater Recycling Association offer certifications. Those and other professional certifications are not required but can add to your marketability and therefore increase your opportunity to make more money.
Other Requirements Unique to Arizona
There are several unique aspects to Arizona's septic licensing and regulatory structure that contractors should be aware of:
County-level permitting: While the CR-41 license is issued statewide by the Arizona Registrar of Contractors, all septic installation permits are handled at the county level. The ADEQ delegates permitting authority to each of Arizona's 15 county health departments, so be sure to check the specific requirements of the county where you plan to work.
Business entity registration: LLCs and corporations must register with the Arizona Corporation Commission. Partnerships must register with the Arizona Secretary of State. Sole proprietorships do not need to file with the Corporation Commission but must meet all other ROC requirements.
Qualifying party requirement: Each Arizona contractor license must have a designated qualifying party — the individual who passed the trade and business exams and who must be actively involved in the company's operations. If that person leaves the company, the license becomes invalid until a new qualifying party is approved.
DIY septic permit: Arizona requires a septic permit even for DIY projects at your own home. However, you do not need a CR-41 contractor license to work on your own property for personal occupancy.
Online portal: The ROC offers an online customer portal at azroc.my.site.com for submitting applications, updates, and complaints.
Are There Septic Scholarships in Arizona?
While there are no scholarships dedicated exclusively to septic contractors, there are several construction trades scholarship and workforce development programs available to Arizona residents.
Arizona Community College Workforce Scholarship: Governor Katie Hobbs and Arizona's 10 public community college districts created the Arizona Community College Workforce Scholarship program to help Arizonans earn a credential or degree in high-demand fields. Construction and trades programs are among the eligible sectors, with up to $600 for part-time students and $1,200 for full-time students.
BuildItAZ Apprenticeship Initiative: The state's BuildItAZ Apprenticeship Initiative provides grant funding to construction and trades registered apprenticeship programs. The initiative aims to double the number of construction trades registered apprentices in Arizona and provides financial assistance for first-year tuition, books, and other expenses.
NAWIC Founders' Scholarship Foundation: The National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) awards over $250,000 annually to students in construction-related training programs nationwide. Applicants must be currently enrolled in a construction-related training program approved by a community college, technical school, or equivalent.
All applicants for state and federal financial aid should start by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
How Can Someone Verify My Septic License in Arizona?
Your septic license can be verified by potential clients, employers, or homeowners through the Arizona Registrar of Contractors website. The ROC provides an online Contractor Search tool where anyone can look up a contractor's license status, classification, bond information, and complaint history.
To verify a license:
Go to the ROC Contractor Search page.
Enter the contractor's ROC license number, or search by the contractor's name or business name.
Use the Advanced Search functions to filter by city, license status, or classification type.
View the license status, expiration date, and classification details. Click on "More Info" for additional details including complaint history.
You can contact the ROC directly at (602) 542-1525 for additional assistance.
When Can a Septic License Get Suspended in Arizona?
Suspending a septic contractor license means the license holder is temporarily prohibited from practicing their trade legally. Under A.R.S. § 32-1154, some of the common grounds for suspension or revocation of an Arizona contractor license include:
The doing of a fraudulent act resulting in another person being substantially injured
Misrepresentation of a material fact in obtaining a license
Violation of any rule adopted by the Registrar
Failure to comply with statutes or rules governing workers' compensation or unemployment insurance
Failure to complete a construction project for the price stated in the contract
Aiding, abetting, or conspiring with a licensed or unlicensed person to evade the Registrar's requirements
Failure to take corrective action after receiving a written directive from the Registrar
Having a person named on the license who is named on another license that is under suspension or revocation
The Registrar may also impose civil penalties of up to $500 per violation for failure to comply with directives, and failure to pay civil penalties can result in automatic revocation of the license. A revoked license cannot be reinstated — the contractor must resolve all outstanding issues and apply for a new license.
Note: The information above should not be considered legal advice. For detailed and specific information about Arizona contractor license regulations, refer to the official Arizona Revised Statutes and ROC rules.
What Are the Penalties for Unlicensed Septic Work in Arizona?
Performing septic contracting work in Arizona without a license is illegal. Under A.R.S. § 32-1151, it is unlawful for any person or business to engage in the business of contracting, submit a bid, or act in the capacity of a contractor without holding a valid license.
Contracting without a license is a Class 1 misdemeanor under A.R.S. § 32-1164(A). For the first offense, the fine is not less than $1,000, and for a second or subsequent offense, the fine is not less than $2,000. If the person is convicted and sentenced to probation, the court must order payment in full of the transaction privilege or use tax amounts that are due and that arise from the acts or omissions constituting the offense under A.R.S. § 32-1164(C) 32-1164.
Additionally, an unlicensed contractor cannot commence or maintain any court action to collect compensation for the work performed, under A.R.S. § 32-1153.
Note: The information above should not be considered legal advice. For detailed and specific information about Arizona's penalties for unlicensed contracting, refer to the official Arizona Revised Statutes.
Continuing Education
Septic contractors in Arizona are not required to complete continuing education hours in order to renew their licenses. This is consistent with Arizona's approach for most contractor license classifications — the state does not mandate continuing education for ROC-licensed contractors.
License Renewal: Septic contractors must renew their CR-41 license every two years (biennially). The $380 renewal fee and $270 Recovery Fund Assessment fee apply. Renewals can be completed online through the ROC customer portal, in person, or by mail.
Be sure to renew your license before it expires. Practicing on a lapsed or expired license can result in disciplinary action from the Registrar.
Resources
You can stay up to date on all septic industry news several ways:
Check top septic blogs, including ServiceTitan’s blog.
Read about the latest industry trends, and discover ideas on how to grow your septic business.
Listen to top septic podcasts like ServiceTitan’s “Toolbox for the Trades” podcast.
The states have licensing requirements for other trades, too. You can find out more about how to get an HVAC, Plumbing, or Electrical license in Arizona, or in any of the other 49 states and the District of Columbia through the ServiceTitan Licensing Hub.
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