California ICC UST Service Technician Practice Exam

Under what condition is a service technician not required to possess a contractor's license?

1. If they have a tank testing license

2. If they are employed by a contractor

3. If they have a technician certification

4. If they work under a registered engineer

The correct answer is: If they have a tank testing license

A service technician is not required to possess a contractor's license if they hold a tank testing license. In many jurisdictions, specific licenses allow technicians to perform particular tasks related to underground storage tanks (USTs) without needing a general contractor's license. The tank testing license provides the authority to conduct testing procedures essential for UST compliance, ensuring safety and regulatory adherence. The condition primarily relates to the recognition of specialized training and expertise that corresponds directly to the tasks performed, rather than the broader scope of a contractor's license. This exception highlights the importance of occupational licensing based on the specific responsibilities a technician fulfills, especially in compliance-heavy environments like UST management. The other conditions require the technician to operate under established guidelines or oversight. For example, being employed by a contractor or working under the supervision of a registered engineer may place the service technician in a position where they are effectively practicing under the contractor's license or professional care. Similarly, technician certification focuses on skills and credentials but does not negate the need for a contractor's license when operating independently.