National Ground Water Association

Frequently asked questions:

1.         What is NGWA certification? Since its inception in 1970, the National Ground Water Association Voluntary Certification Program has been a vital link between the ground water industry and the general public, ensuring quality and professionalism. Developed by ground water professionals for ground water professionals the program continues to expand and build equity.   The ultimate goals are to protect public health and elevate industry professionalism.

2.         I would like to have my company certified to do well drilling.  How can this be done?  NGWA’s Voluntary Certification Program is for individuals only. There is currently no provision for the certification of companies.

3.         How many tests do I need to take to be certified?  Two – the general drilling exam and one other another specialized drilling exam, or the water systems general exam and one other specialized water systems exam.

4.         Is NGWA membership required to become certified?   No. However, members pay discounted fees for exams and the annual recertification fees.

5.         Will I have to pay a certification fee every year?  Yes.  There is an annual renewal fee due December 31 each year.  The fee is $25 for NGWA members and $275 for nonmembers.

6.         Can I become certified in more than one category? Yes. You can become a Certified Well Driller (CWD)by taking and passing the general drilling exam and another specialized exam in that category , a Certified Pump Installer (CPI) by taking the water systems general exam and another specialized exam in that category or a Certified Well Driller/Pump Installer (CWD/PI) by taking the exams from both categories.

7.         I own a well drilling company and employ several drillers. Am I expected to pay recertification fees for all of them?  There is an annual recertification fee due each year for individuals participating in the program.  However, as a company owner, you are under no obligation to pay recertification fees for your employees. It is the individual’s responsibility to maintain his/her certification.

8.            Where and when can I take NGWA’s exams to become certified? You can take exams at computer testing centers across the nation by contacting LaserGrade.  Many centers are open six days a week. Paper/pencil exams are available on a limited basis at least though December 2007.  Paper/pencil exams are offered at the annual NGWA Ground Water Expo and by request at some state and regional shows.

9.         If I fail the certification exam, how long do I have to wait to retake the exam?  You must wait 90 days to retest in that category.

10.       What do I need to know to take the exams?  To become a Certified Well Driller (CWD) you will need to know about well development, well construction, site-related mobilization, rehabilitating wells, and decommissioning wells. To become a Certified Pump Installer (CPI) you will need to about well components, evaluating water systems, industry terms, installation procedures, job site safety, electrical pump components, pump types and selection, troubleshooting and well and pump design.

11.       I used to be certified and let it lapse three years ago.  What do I need to do?  You must retake the exams and follow the same procedures as anyone initially entering the program.

12.       I passed the two required exams with a 70% or better score. How do I become certified?  You must submit written references from two professionals who are not affiliated with your current company to verify your experience and sign an affidavit stating there is no legal action pending against you.

13.       I have passed the exams for licensing in my state. I would like to become NGWA certified.  What do I do? Contact NGWA within the same calendar year as the qualifying test session.  You must submit written references from two professionals who are not affiliated with your current company to verify your experience and sign an affidavit stating there is no legal action pending against you.

14.       What’s the difference between NGWA certification and state licensing? They are two separate operations with different requirements.  NGWA’s Voluntary Certification Program is administered and governed by NGWA. The states, using NGWA’s certification exams for licensing, must adhere to the rules and regulations approved by their respective state legislatures. For information on NGWA’s Voluntary Certification Program, contact NGWA.  For information on state licensing requirements, contact the state.

15.       Do I have to be a member of NGWA to take exams for state licensing? No. You will be charged $75 per exam to take exams for state licensing.

16.       When and where can I take exams for state licensing?  Contact LaserGrade, the computer testing, to set up an appointment. You can also contact your state agency for information on taking exams.  Some state agencies offer NGWA’s paper/pencil exams on-site.

17.       How do I receive my scores?  If you take exams through LaserGrade, the computer-testing center, you will receive your scores immediately.  If you take paper/pencil exams at a state show, a state licensing agency or the NGWA Ground Water Expo, you will receive your scores via mail approximately two weeks after the test is administered.  Test scores are never given over the phone.

18.       I have questions about my certified status.  Whom should I contact?  Contact NGWA’s Certification Department.