Underground Storage Tank Operator Training

Important update: NHDES has developed an online certification program that is available to both new and recertifying UST operators. There is no application fee for the exam and training modules. See details and dates below. In-person classes remain suspended at this time.

Training Options Online:

There are two different types of certifications approved for New Hampshire regulated UST facilities; therefore, NHDES is offering two distinct online exams. The “Dispensing Exam” is for all types of facilities including dispensing facilities (e.g. gas stations); and the “Non-Dispensing Exam” is for operators of non-dispensing facilities (e.g. heating oil). Please be aware that if you store both dispensing and non-dispensing substances you will need to take the “Dispensing Exam” to comply with the training requirements. 

If you have an interest in becoming certified, please click on one of the following links to register:
Register for one of the Dispensing Exam Dates
Register for one of the Non-Dispensing Exam Dates

An email address is required to register for an online exam. This email address is only used for NHDES compliance purposes. After registration, an email will be sent that confirms registration and it will include links to the study materials as well as a link to enter the online exam platform. Please note, the link to “join” the online event will only work during the scheduled day and time of the event chosen. IMPORTANT: arrive before the exam starts, and do not leave the program after the exam has started or you will not be allowed to access the exam. Attendees are allowed to bring notes to the exam. The links to some dates will no longer be available when the maximum capacity is reached.

To access the study materials, which are in the form of 12 educational videos, click on the link to “view the materials”. This will be located within the email that confirms your registration. The materials will include blank forms associated with the training program as well as another link to the “Required Study Materials”. Please view all of these videos before the date and time of the scheduled online exam. The video for Vapor Recovery does not apply to those seeking certifications for non-dispensing facilities.

It is strongly recommended that you check your computer’s compatibility with the GoTo Training platform ahead of the exam date. This information will be provided in the registration confirmation email. Should you need assistance investigating this process further, please contact the Training Specialist at the contact information shown below and arrangements can be made for you to try the “join” link.

Training Requirements:

The Federal Energy Policy Act requires states to develop training guidelines. Effective August 8, 2012, the State of New Hampshire (NH) RSA 146-C:17-21 requires owners of New Hampshire regulated motor and fuel oil UST facilities to assign designated Class A, B and C operators who have been trained and certified by a NHDES-approved training program. The law requires all facilities to have at least one designated operator for each class.

• Class A operators will be designated by owners to have primary statutory and regulatory responsibility for the operation and maintenance of the facility. This class of operator could potentially be the facility owner or person in charge of the tank system.
• Class B operators will be designated by owners to implement applicable regulatory requirements as well as the daily aspects of the facility’s operation, maintenance, and recordkeeping. A maintenance person, an underground storage tank contractor, or consultant could potentially fill this class.
• Class C operators will be designated by the owner to have primary responsibility for responding to alarms, emergencies presented by spills or releases, and other problem associated with the operation of the facility. A store manager or maintenance person could potentially fill this class.

Owners must designate the Class A and B operators to NHDES by submitting a completed and signed Statement of Training form to NHDES and post a list of Class C operators at their facility.

There is no application fee for NHDES operator training. Class registrations are processed immediately. Statement of Training forms will be processed within 24-48 hours following receipt. Certifications must be renewed every two years from the operators’ previous certification date.