Become a Certified Pool & Spa Inspector

The Certified Pool & Spa Inspector® (CPI®) creates a foundation for health officials and pool operators to conduct pool and spa inspections to support the assurance of a sanitary, healthy, and safe environment for staff and patrons of public swimming pools and spas.

Through the CPI training course (certification requirement) and passing of the exam, the credential holder will have the ability to:

• Understand the basis for code requirements and why a violation is a public health hazard
• Perform an inspection of the pool and spa area
• Evaluate swimming pool operation and maintenance
• Assess the circulation system and its components
• Evaluate a facility for VGB Act compliance
• Recognize the elements of spa inspections
• Understand recreational water illnesses
• Maintain supervision and operator records
• Recognize the elements of aquatic play features
• Understand swimming pool design standards and their impact on public health

Prerequisites to Apply

• Recommended 2 years of industry experience
• Successful completion of the Certified Pool & Spa Inspector® (CPI®) course
• Pass the CPI Exam

Online CPI Course

This on-demand, self-paced, online format is interactive and engaging with videos, quizzes, and exercises.

Purchase the On-Demand CPI Course

Instructor-Led CPI Course

Attend a live in-person or virtual CPI course with fellow students, led by a PHTA Instructor.

Find a CPI Course Near You

Unable to find a live course in your area? Contact service@phta.org to be put in touch with an instructor.

Exam Information

To become certified as a CPI® (Certified Pool Inspector®), you must complete the CPI course and take the CPI Exam. An additional registration form and $115 fee for the CPI Exam is required. The CPI Exam is 1 hour long, open book, with 35 multiple-choice questions. You must score 75% or better to pass.

Choose How to Take the Exam

Candidates must submit a completed application at least 14 days in advance of their anticipated testing date.

• On a computer at a Prometric computer testing center near you. Computer testing gives immediate test results and flexible time to take the exam.
• On a computer remotely proctored at your convenience. Remote proctored computer testing gives immediate test results and unparalleled flexibility to take the exam.
• At a PHTA national, regional, or chapter-sponsored testing event. A list of upcoming events can be found here. You will receive your exam results via email 3 weeks after the exam.
  • Upcoming PHTA Testing Date:
    • November 13, 2023
      PSP/Deck Expo / Las Vegas, NV
      9am-12pm and 1pm-4pm

• At an accredited community college or university in your area. Additional proctoring fees may cost up to $40. Contact your local community colleges and libraries to find your nearest proctored testing center. You will be responsible for scheduling an appointment for testing. You will need to provide PHTA with your name, mailing address, and exam date.

Please contact PHTA at service@phta.org for additional information on the CPI Exam and application process.

Course Materials and Forms

• Application: Must be submitted at least two weeks before your testing date.
• Exam Retest Form: If you didn’t pass the exam, you can reschedule a retest within a year of your testing date and not have to take the course again.
• Certification Policy Handbook: Find many of the answers to your certification questions in our Certification Policy Handbook.

Maintain Your Certification

Learn more about maintaining your status as an PHTA-certified individual and continue to enjoy the associated benefits. Find the recertification application here.

Application for recertification is due on or before December 31 of the year your certification expires. Failure to recertify by that time, or by the end of the 90 day grace period (April 1 of the following year), will result in a late fee being applied to your certification. Up to 1 year past your certification expiration, you will need to reapply for certification, submit proof of total continuing education hours, and pay the recertification fee and the late penalty. For questions or clarification, please contact PHTA at service@phta.org or 719-540-9119.