Practice Questions And Correct Answers (Verified
Answers) | Instant Download Pdf
Coverage Summary:
Q1–50: Licensing, Regulations & Permitting
Q51–100: Site Evaluation & Soil Assessment
Q101–150: Septic Tanks & Installation Procedures
Q151–200: Inspection, Approval & Environmental Protection
Q201–250: Installer Responsibilities & Safety
Section 1: Licensing, Regulations & Permitting (Questions 1–50)
1. What is the primary regulatory document governing onsite wastewater systems in
South Carolina?
A) NFPA 1403
B) SC DHEC Regulation 61-56
C) SC Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation (LLR) Title 40
D) The International Plumbing Code (IPC)
,Answer: B – Regulation 61-56 is the official regulation specifying minimum standards for
the construction, design, and installation of septic systems in South Carolina.
2. Which state agency has historically had primary authority for regulating septic
systems in South Carolina?
A) Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation (LLR)
B) Department of Environmental Services (DES)
C) Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC)
D) Department of Natural Resources (DNR)
Answer: C – DHEC is the state agency responsible for environmental health and safety,
including regulation of onsite wastewater systems. DES is a newer department that took
over some environmental functions.
3. What minimum score is required to pass the South Carolina septic tank contractor
licensing examination?
A) 70%
B) 75%
C) 80%
D) 85%
Answer: C – Regulation 61-56 Section 700 requires applicants for a Tier 1 or Tier 2 installer
license to pass an examination with a minimum score of 80 percent.
,4. Which South Carolina agency is responsible for regulating onsite wastewater
systems?
A) South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation
B) U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
C) South Carolina Department of Environmental Services (SCDES)
D) South Carolina Department of Natural Resources
Answer: C – The SCDES, formerly DHEC, is responsible for regulating and overseeing
septic systems in South Carolina, including permitting, inspections, and compliance with
state regulations.
5. A homeowner asks an installer to begin constructing a septic system before
SCDES has issued the required permit; what should the installer do?
A. Begin excavation because the homeowner accepts responsibility
B. Begin only the septic tank installation
C. Refuse to begin until the required authorization is issued
D. Begin construction if the soil appears suitable
Answer: C – South Carolina regulations prohibit construction of an onsite wastewater
system until the Department has issued the required permit and authorization.
6. Which organization currently provides South Carolina regulatory oversight and
licensing information for onsite wastewater system installers?
A. South Carolina Department of Transportation
, B. South Carolina Department of Environmental Services
C. South Carolina Department of Agriculture
D. South Carolina Building Commission
Answer: B – SCDES administers South Carolina's onsite wastewater regulatory and
installer licensing program under Regulation 61-56.
7. How often must a septic tank installer license be renewed in South Carolina?
A) Every 6 months
B) Annually
C) Every 2 years
D) Every 5 years
Answer: B – Licenses for installers and haulers must be renewed annually and are subject
to late fees if not paid on time.
8. What is the required continuing education for a Tier 1 installer every 2 years?
A) 4 hours
B) 6 hours
C) 8 hours
D) 12 hours
Answer: B – Tier 1 installers must complete 6 hours of continuing education every 2 years.