Environmental Compliance Training (ECT) Classes

All Tennessee drycleaners must have a valid training certificate to register each year. You can choose to take the Certified Environmental Drycleaner training provided by All TN drycleaning facilities must complete and environmental training class in order to register for operations. Anyone who operates the drycleaning machine should have one of these certificates. Drycleaners have the option of taking either the Environmental Compliance Training (ECT) class provided by DCERP or the Certified Environmental Drycleaner (CED) exam provided by the Drycleaning and Laundry Institute.

ECT classes are provided  free of charge each summer at locations across the state or online. All drycleaners are notified of the class dates through mailing and online. The ECT class lasts approximately two hours and is taught by DCERP staff.  The  ECT class is designed to help drycleaners understand the federal, state, and local regulations that apply to Tennessee’s drycleaning industry. All information is presented in an easy to understand format and attendees are encouraged to ask questions at any time. Participants are tested on the materials presented. Approximately two weeks after the class, participants receive a new ECT certificate in the mail. The certificate is valid for three years from the test date. TN Drycleaners are able to use this certificate to meet the CED/ECT requirement when filling out the annual registration form. If you would like to take the ECT exam, contact Dry.Cleaners@tn.gov or call 615-741-2281.

The CED exam is taken online eliminating the need for you to travel. However, the CED exam does have a charge to take the test. The fee to take the test varies based on your affiliation with the Drycleaning Laundry Institute. Registration begins several months before the actual testing period. If you choose this option, register as soon as possible to allow the most time to prepare. The CED exam is not affiliated with DCERP but does fulfill the training requirement when filling out the annual registration form. 

No matter which exam you choose, you will need to keep a copy of your certificate at your facility. When you fill out your annual registration form, you must send a copy (not the original) of the certificate with your form. Your training certificate will be valid for three years. If you lose your certificate you will have to retake the exam.