Texas · statewide
Backflow testing in Texas: TCEQ licensing and the annual test
Updated · Editorial team; not yet technically reviewed
Short answer
In Texas, anyone who tests or repairs a backflow prevention assembly must hold a Backflow Prevention Assembly Tester license from TCEQ. Assemblies protecting against a health hazard are tested at installation and at least every 12 months, and testers' gauges must be checked for accuracy every year.
What Texas requires or changes
A person who repairs or tests backflow prevention assemblies must hold a license issued by TCEQ; licensed testers can work on domestic, commercial, industrial and irrigation services. [1]
Getting the license requires a 40-hour backflow assembly testing course plus an application and fee to TCEQ. [1]
Tester licenses require 24 hours of continuing education for renewal. [1]
Assemblies protecting against a health hazard must be tested at installation and at least once every 12 months, and testers' differential pressure gauges must be verified for accuracy at least annually. [2]
Checking a tester before you hire
- Ask for the TCEQ BPAT license number and confirm it in TCEQ's license search.
- Many utilities also require testers to register with them; Austin and San Antonio do.
- Ask whether the tester files the report with the utility for you, and get a copy of the TCEQ test form.
City programs differ
TCEQ sets the license and the annual test for health-hazard assemblies; each water utility runs its own program, deadlines and paperwork. See Austin and San Antonio for two very different calendars, and backflow testing for how the test works.
Common questions
Who can test a backflow preventer in Texas?
Only someone holding a TCEQ Backflow Prevention Assembly Tester license.
Does a Texas backflow repair also need a licensed tester?
Yes. The TCEQ license covers both testing and repairing assemblies.
How often are Texas health-hazard backflow assemblies tested?
At installation and at least once every 12 months.
What training does a Texas backflow tester need?
A 40-hour assembly testing course, plus experience or education requirements, before applying to TCEQ.
How many continuing education hours does a TCEQ tester license need?
24 hours for renewal.
How often must a Texas tester's gauge be checked?
At least once a year for accuracy.
Do Texas cities add their own backflow rules?
Yes. Utilities set deadlines, registration and filing rules on top of TCEQ requirements.
Is a sprinkler system in Texas a backflow hazard?
Irrigation systems are among the most common residential assemblies utilities require and test.
How can I confirm a Texas tester's license?
Use TCEQ's online license search with the tester's name or license number.
What form records a Texas backflow test?
TCEQ's Backflow Prevention Assembly Test and Maintenance Report, or the utility's version of it.
Backflow Testing across Texas
- Backflow Testing in AustinAustin Water's backflow testing rules: who may test, the 5-day report deadline, online filing, and the irrigation rebates that pair with an upgrade.
- Backflow Testing in San AntonioSAWS backflow testing rules for San Antonio: the June 30 annual deadline, the codes behind it, reminder notices, and what a 10-day notice means.
- Backflow Testing in Fort WorthFort Worth backflow rules: annual tests for commercial and health-hazard assemblies, a three-year cycle for low-hazard irrigation, and registered testers.
- Backflow Testing in DallasDallas backflow rules: lawn irrigation assemblies don't need annual tests, only when new, repaired or replaced; high-hazard assemblies need annual registered tests.
- Backflow Testing in HoustonHouston backflow testing: testing companies must register with the city, testers need TCEQ licenses, and gauges need annual calibration reports filed with Houston.
- Water Heater Replacement in TexasTexas law on water heater swaps: cities over 5,000 regulate water heaters and require permits beyond simple repairs, and the homestead exemption for owners.
- Backflow Testing: the full guideWhat backflow is, which homes and businesses need backflow preventers, how annual backflow testing works, and what happens if a device fails.
- Plumbing in TexasTexas's plumbing code, licensing, climate and the cities we cover.
The same service in other states
Sources (2)
- TCEQ, Backflow Prevention Assembly Tester License · checked 2026-10-03
- TCEQ, Backflow Prevention Assembly Test and Maintenance Report (TCEQ-20700) · checked 2026-10-03