Asphalt Plant Level 1 Training Course

The Asphalt Plant Level 1 Training Course is designed to prepare technicians and Department employees to perform essential testing and quality control procedures in asphalt plant operations. This comprehensive program provides both theoretical instruction and practical laboratory experience, allowing trainees to understand the full process of asphalt production, testing, and reporting.

The Asphalt Plant Level 1 course is delivered over three days and includes classroom instruction, laboratory demonstrations, and individual practice sessions. During the training, participants learn the procedures required to evaluate asphalt materials, operate testing equipment, and ensure that asphalt mixtures meet the specifications required for roadway construction projects.

Course Structure and Duration

The Asphalt Plant Level 1 training program includes approximately 24 hours of instruction and examinations, combining classroom learning with hands-on laboratory experience.

Instruction Time – 16 Hours

Participants receive detailed instruction covering asphalt testing procedures and equipment operation.

• Classroom Instruction: 8 hours

• Laboratory Demonstration: 4 hours

• Individual Practice: 4 hours

The laboratory portion allows trainees to work directly with testing devices and equipment used in asphalt plant quality control.

Examination Time – 6 to 8 Hours

At the end of the course, participants must complete both a written and a proficiency examination.

• Written Examination: 2 hours

• Proficiency Examination: approximately 4 to 6 hours (depending on class size)

These exams are designed to verify that trainees understand testing procedures and can correctly perform the required measurements and calculations.

Course Content

The Asphalt Plant Level 1 training focuses on the procedures used to evaluate asphalt materials and maintain quality control at asphalt plants. Participants review the proper calibration procedures for testing equipment, perform calculations required for testing, and learn how to report data using standard report forms.

Understanding these procedures helps technicians ensure consistency and accuracy in asphalt testing, which is critical for maintaining pavement performance and compliance with Department specifications.

Course Prerequisites

Before attending the Asphalt Plant Level 1 Training Course, trainees employed by the Department must first pass the Department Asphalt Concrete Testing Self-Study Examination (CQC version). This prerequisite ensures that participants have a basic understanding of asphalt testing principles before beginning the course.

Written Examination

A two-hour open book written examination is administered at the end of the course. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and is electronically graded by the CTQP Administrator. To pass the examination, participants must achieve a minimum score of 70 percent. Exam results are typically posted within two weeks after grading.

Proficiency Examination

In addition to the written exam, participants must successfully complete a proficiency examination lasting approximately four to six hours, depending on class size. During this evaluation, trainees must demonstrate the correct use of testing equipment and procedures learned during the course.

Each trainee is given two opportunities to pass each test. If a trainee fails the same test twice, the proficiency examination is considered failed. While the proficiency exam is closed book, trainees may review course materials after a failed attempt before performing the second attempt.

Anyone who fails either the written examination or the proficiency examination may apply to retake the exam by submitting a new application and paying the appropriate examination fee.

Completing the Asphalt Plant Level 1 Training Course provides technicians with the knowledge and practical skills needed to support quality control operations at asphalt plants. By learning proper testing procedures, equipment calibration, and accurate data reporting, participants are better prepared to maintain consistency in asphalt mix production and meet Department specifications. The Asphalt Plant Level 1 certification helps professionals strengthen their technical qualifications while contributing to safer, more reliable, and longer-lasting roadway construction projects.