Flexible Method 9 preparation and testing

Online Smoke School

Complete the knowledge portion on your schedule, then choose the correct visual qualification path - approved VR testing where eligible or a traditional in-person smoke school.

Nationwide since 2005
Public and private training
Online and eligible VR options
Methods 9, 22 and 203
A practical certification path

Know what comes next.

Opaque Smoke School helps individual observers and company coordinators choose the appropriate training route, complete the required steps, and keep qualification records organized.

Two online components with different purposes

The online Method 9 lecture teaches observation principles, field positioning, documentation, and test preparation. The visual qualification test is a separate step. An eligible student may use the approved Opacity Vision VR path with supported equipment, or attend a traditional in-person smoke school.

Built for individual students and company teams

Individuals can prepare without waiting for a classroom date. Training coordinators can assign the same instructional material across locations, monitor renewal needs through the appropriate portal, and choose VR or in-person testing based on equipment and operational needs.

Equipment for the VR path

The visual certification experience requires a supported VR headset with a browser and WebXR support. Meta Quest 2 is the minimum supported baseline; newer equivalent or greater supported headsets may also be appropriate. A phone or tablet is not a substitute for an approved headset.

When in-person training is the better fit

Public or private onsite smoke school remains a strong choice when a team prefers instructor-led practice, does not have supported VR equipment, or wants to qualify a larger group together at a scheduled location.

From planning to documentation

The process

01

Create or access the appropriate student account.

02

Complete the Method 9 lecture when required.

03

Practice reading opacity values.

04

Choose approved VR testing or an in-person class.

05

Pass the qualification test and retain the certification record.

Clear answers

Frequently asked questions

Can I become certified using only a laptop?

A laptop can be used for the lecture and preparation, but the approved VR visual certification path requires supported VR equipment.

What is the minimum VR headset?

Meta Quest 2 is the minimum supported baseline for the browser-based WebXR experience.

Can I still attend an in-person smoke school?

Yes. Opaque continues to offer public and private onsite options.

Is online smoke school available to a walk-up individual?

Yes. Individuals who are not tied to a vendor or prior trainer can use the general Opacity Vision portal for the eligible VR path.

Make the next certification simple.

Tell us who needs training, where they are located, and when their certification is due.