Can I use VR Smoke School instead of In-Person Smoke School?
The EPA Method 9 certification you receive from VR Smoke School is the same as one received from an in-person smoke school.
VR Smoke School is an EPA-approved method for earning EPA Method 9 certification. The certification you receive upon completion is identical to the certification issued by an in-person smoke school.
Federally Regulated Sources
EPA Method 9 certification from VR Smoke School can be used for any federally regulated source in the United States. It also satisfies opacity testing requirements outlined in federal test methods and NSPS standards.
State-Regulated Sources
EPA Method 9 certification from VR Smoke School is currently authorized by more than 90% of U.S. states, and that number continues to grow. The remaining states require policy or regulation updates to allow the use of virtual smoke school programs. We are actively working with those states to support adoption. View the current list of states that recognize certification from this program. Each ALT-152 provider must independently seek authorization from each state, and approval for one provider does not extend to another.
EPA Method 9 Observations Are the Same
VR Smoke School only changes how you obtain your certification. Instead of traveling to an in-person event, you complete the process online through a virtual smoke school platform. The application of EPA Method 9—including how opacity observations are performed in the field—remains exactly the same. This approach provides a more convenient and affordable way to earn certification.
Ready to get started? Create your free account for full access to the VR Smoke School program and begin your certification today.