How Hard Is the AWWA BPAT Exam?

The American Water Works Association Backflow Prevention Assembly Tester (BPAT) certification is one of the most widely accepted credentials for backflow testers in California.

In California, it’s administered by the
California-Nevada Section of the American Water Works Association

To get certified, you must pass:

A two-part written (computer-based) exam
A hands-on performance exam

Why the BPAT Exam Is Considered Difficult

1. It’s Not Just Memorization

The exam tests real understanding — not just definitions.

You’ll need to understand:

How backflow actually occurs
Pressure relationships (PSI, elevation, hydraulics)
How different assemblies function

If you don’t truly understand the concepts, the questions can be tricky.

2. The Written Exam Has Two Parts

The computer-based test is split into:

Part A — Theory

Backflow principles
Hydraulics
Codes and regulations

Part B — Troubleshooting

Diagnosing failed tests
Interpreting gauge readings
Identifying assembly issues

👉 Most people find Part B (troubleshooting) harder because it requires applying knowledge — not just recalling it.

3. The Hands-On Test Trips People Up

The practical exam is where many candidates struggle.

You must:

Follow the exact testing procedure
Use your gauge correctly
Catch failures and errors

Common reasons people fail:

Missing a step
Incorrect hose connections
Not recognizing a failing assembly

4. It’s a Pass/Fail Certification

There’s no partial credit toward certification.

You must pass both written sections
And pass the hands-on exam

If you fail one part, you’ll need to retake it.

What Is the Passing Score?

The exact passing score is set by the certification board, but most candidates should aim for:

👉 At least 70% or higher on each written section

More importantly:

You must demonstrate competency, not just barely pass

How Many People Fail?

While official pass rates aren’t widely published, in the industry:

First-time pass rates vary widely
Students without training often struggle
Students who take a structured course have a much higher success rate

👉 The biggest difference is preparation.

How to Make the Exam Easier

✔ Take a Proper Training Course

A structured course teaches:

The exact testing procedures
How to read gauges
How to troubleshoot failures

✔ Practice Hands-On Testing

You can’t pass the practical exam by watching videos.

You need:

Repetition
Real assemblies
Real test kits

✔ Understand — Don’t Memorize

Especially for Part B:

Learn why readings change
Understand pressure relationships
Think like a troubleshooter

✔ Use Exam-Focused Training

Not all classes are equal.

The best training programs:

Teach the test format
Simulate the hands-on exam
Focus on common failure points

Is the BPAT Exam Hard or Just Technical?

Here’s the honest answer:

👉 It’s technical, not impossible

If you go in unprepared → it feels hard
If you’re properly trained → it’s very manageable

Most people who fail:

Didn’t get enough hands-on practice
Tried to shortcut the learning process

Final Thoughts

The AWWA BPAT exam has a reputation for being difficult — but that’s because it’s designed to ensure testers can protect public health.

With the right preparation, it’s absolutely something you can pass on your first attempt.

Want to Pass the First Time?

If you’re serious about becoming a certified backflow tester, the right training makes all the difference.

Our program is designed to prepare you for:

Both written exam sections (A & B)
The hands-on performance test
Real-world testing scenarios