Free Practice Questions for ASSE 5110

A 5110 Tester performs the annual field test required by the water purveyor and the AHJ on reduced pressure (RP), double check (DC), pressure vacuum breaker (PVB), and spill-resistant vacuum breaker (SVB) assemblies. The tester confirms that each check valve holds tight, that the differential pressure relief valve on an RP opens at the correct value, and that air inlets on a PVB or SVB open at or above the required pressure, then reports the result to the purveyor.

The ASSE 5110 written examination is 100 questions and requires a score of 70% or higher to pass. Candidates must also pass a hands-on practical exam that includes the field test procedure for RP (ASSE 1013), DC (ASSE 1015), PVB (ASSE 1020), and SVB (ASSE 1056) assemblies without notes or assistance.

ASSE 5110 requires a minimum of five years of documented practical experience in the installation or service of plumbing, mechanical, fire protection, lawn irrigation or a related industry field. Candidates must also complete a minimum 40-hour training course at an ASSE-approved school, which helps them apply to ASSE during the course; ASSE confirms eligibility before the written and practical exams.

ASSE 5110 certification is valid for three years. To renew, testers complete an 8-hour recertification course at an ASSE-approved school and pass a 50-question written exam (100 questions from January 1, 2027) and a hands-on practical, ideally in the six months before expiration. Renewing within six months after expiration keeps the original expiration month; after that, the initial course and exam must be retaken.

A reduced pressure principle (RP) assembly meeting ASSE 1013 contains two independently acting check valves and a differential pressure relief valve between them, so the zone between the checks discharges to atmosphere if either check fouls. A double check valve assembly (DC) meeting ASSE 1015 also has two checks but no relief valve. RPs protect against health hazards including backpressure; DCs are used only for non-health hazards.

Most jurisdictions and the USC Manual of Cross-Connection Control require the differential pressure gauge to be calibrated at least once every twelve months, and many purveyors require a calibration sticker on the gauge to accept the test report. Testers should also verify gauge accuracy in the field if a reading appears unusual or after the gauge has been dropped.

Primary references include the USC Foundation for Cross-Connection Control and Hydraulic Research (FCCCHR) Manual of Cross-Connection Control (10th Edition), AWWA M14 Recommended Practice for Backflow Prevention and Cross-Connection Control, EPA's Cross-Connection Control Manual (EPA 816-R-03-002), and the ASSE/IAPMO/ANSI Series 5000 standard along with the ASSE 1013, 1015, 1020, and 1056 device standards.