Iowa Backflow Tester Certification Courses
32-Hour Backflow Class Schedule ($900)
Grimes, IA ( Des Moines ) - Monday 07/21/25 through Thursday 07/24/25 ( this class is full, but we can accommodate a few more students at 150% the price - register here )
5-Hour Backflow Renewal Class Schedule ($350)
Grimes, IA ( Des Moines ) - Tuesday 07/22/25 ( this class is full, but we can accommodate a few more students at 150% the price - register here )
Do a Private Course or Host a Public Course
No course or exam scheduled in your area ? We have two additional programs available, links to more info below:
Private Course - We can come to your location and train only your staff, bring all props, handouts, equipment, etc., Minimum of 10 students
Host a Course - Similar to a private course, we come to your facility and train your staff, but also you allow other local technicians to attend. No minimums for these and you get 2 free students.
How Do I Become a Certified Backflow Tester in Iowa ?
The license to test preventers in the state of Iowa is administered by the Iowa Department of Public Health ( IDPH ), also by the Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals, and Licensing ( DIAL ), their websites and breakdowns for licensing have changed over the years.
In order to get the IDPH / DIAL backflow tester license, you have to complete a 32-hour course ( or 5-hour course to renew every 3 years ) and then you are rostered into their "Amanda Portal" system. After completion of the course, we will send you step-by-step instructions on what the next steps are, and there are fees and forms that you must fill out with IDPH after the course to finalize, nothing needs to be done prior to the course.
We hold an approval through IDPH and DIAL to provide 32-hour initial and 5-hour renewal courses that would qualify you for an initial or renewal of the IDPH or DIAL Backflow Tester License - The state has their program and list of approved courses where we are shown on their website - https://dial.iowa.gov/licenses/building/backflow
After the class, you get rostered into the IDPH system as attending the course, and then you can apply for the license with them. You do need a PIN to be rostered, so you have to create an account with them if you don't have one already. There are step by step instructions for this on their website at https://dial.iowa.gov/backflow-application-instructions
Which Backflow Prevention Testing Procedures Should I Use ?
We have found the USC 10th Edition testing procedures to be the most efficient, often with additional procedures required on the RP for some water purveyors. On our YouTube Channel, we created a series of videos explaining the testing procedures and how to prepare for practical exams:
Beware of Improper Installations
Testing the Reduced Pressure Principle ( RP ) - By the Book
Testing the Double Check Valve Assembly ( DCV ) - By the Book
Testing the Pressure Vacuum Breaker ( PVB ) Assembly - By the Book
Tips and Tricks for taking Backflow Practical Exams
The USC 10th Edition Textbook can be purchased at www.uscfoundationstore.com