Is the Online RRP Refresher Accepted by the EPA?

If your EPA RRP certification is expiring, you may be wondering whether you can renew it online — or if you’re required to attend an in-person class.

The short answer: Yes, the EPA does accept an online RRP refresher — but only in certain situations.

Here’s what you need to know.

When an Online RRP Refresher Is Accepted

An online RRP refresher course is accepted by the EPA if:

You already hold a valid EPA RRP certification
Your certification has not expired
You are taking the course to renew, not to get initially certified

If those conditions are met, an online refresher is a convenient way to keep your certification active.

When an Online RRP Refresher Is Not Accepted

An online refresher cannot be used if:

You have never been EPA RRP certified before
Your RRP certification has already expired
You need initial RRP certification

In these cases, the EPA requires you to attend a full, in-person initial RRP training class.

Initial vs. Refresher RRP Training: The Key Difference

Initial RRP Certification
Requires in-person training with hands-on instruction and an exam.
RRP Refresher Certification
May be completed online only if your certification is still active.

This distinction is important — taking the wrong course can leave you non-compliant.

Why Some Contractors Still Choose In-Person Training

Even when online refreshers are allowed, some contractors prefer in-person classes to:

Get hands-on updates
Ask real-world questions
Avoid mistakes with renewal timing
Ensure there are no gaps in certification

This is especially helpful if you work regularly in pre-1978 homes.

EPA-Approved RRP Training Made Simple

BWI Lead Class offers EPA-approved, in-person RRP certification classes for those who need initial certification or whose certification has expired.

With BWI Lead Class, you can: