Getting a water well or pump installer license in Maine
A master pump installer in Maine needs at least 3 years as a pump installer with at least 350 hours worked in each of those years, and must pass a written exam.
Getting licensed in Maine
A journeyman pump installer needs at least one year and 350 hours as an apprentice pump installer. Applicants who do not qualify are licensed as apprentices.
Maine well driller and pump installer licenses are annual and all expire on December 31.
The Commission's master pump installer exam application lists a $25 review and exam fee, with questions drawn from the Water Systems Handbook and the state's well rules.
Sources: Master pump installer; Master exam fee
Who needs a license
In Maine, no one may install, replace or repair a pump in a water well unless licensed with the Maine Water Well Commission. Licensed pump installers must display a Commission seal on each side of their vehicle.
A Maine licensed master plumber may do pump installer work without a separate Commission license.
A licensed pump installer must work under a licensed pump installation company, and that company license is valid only while it employs at least one licensed master pump installer.
Sources: License needed to install or repair a pump; Installers work under a licensed company
How owners check a license
The Commission publishes a list of licensed well drillers and pump installers, and a list of licensed companies, on its web page.
Maine's Drinking Water Program tells homeowners to ask whether the driller is licensed and in good standing before hiring, and says drillers and pump installers are licensed by the Maine Well Drillers Commission.
Complaints about a well or pump job go to the Commission in writing within 24 months of finishing the work.
Sources: Published license list; Check the license first; Complaints within 24 months
Common questions
Who licenses well pump installers in Maine?
The Maine Water Well Commission, part of the Maine CDC Drinking Water Program, licenses well drillers and pump installers.