The American Society of Plumbing Engineers (ASPE) developed the Certified Plumbing Design Technician (CPDT) program to provide professional recognition of qualified plumbing designers who are early in their career. This year's exam will be held via remote proctor on Oct. 11–22, and registration is now open.

To be eligible to take the CPDT exam, you must have one of the following:

  • A bachelor's degree in engineering with one year of experience designing plumbing systems
  • An associate's or a bachelor's degree in a field related to engineering (physics, mathematics, architecture, civil, environmental studies, construction, HVAC, etc.) and a minimum of two years of experience designing plumbing systems
  • Four years minimum of plumbing design experience

If you are interested in sitting for this year's exam, please fill out the eligibility form. If you are approved, you will be sent the registration link.

The CPDT program includes the following four primary objectives:

  1. Provide a standard of professional competence in the practice of plumbing design at the technician level.
  2. Identify and recognize those individuals who successfully complete the certification exam, thereby demonstrating their acquired knowledge and abilities in the field of plumbing design.
  3. Encourage plumbing designers to become lifelong learners and participate in a continuing program of professional development.
  4. Provide a standard for educational programs in plumbing design and encourage the implementation of such programs.

The CPDT is the first step toward ASPE's CPD (Certified in Plumbing Design) credential. ASPE encourages all CPDTs to continue their education and work toward a CPD designation.

The cost to take the CPDT exam is $225 for ASPE members and $450 for nonmembers. The deadline to register for the 2021 exam is Oct. 8.