Getting a water well or pump installer certification in Virginia
DPOR certifies water well systems providers at three levels: trainee (one year of experience), journeyman (three years) and master (six years), all under a certified master.
Getting certified in Virginia
Applicants must pass an oral or written exam on water well systems and the related laws and rules.
Certified providers must complete at least eight hours of Board approved continuing education to renew.
DPOR notes that although it is called certification, it is mandatory for water well construction.
Sources: Three certification levels; Certification is mandatory
Who needs a certification
A certified water well systems provider is the individual who drills, installs, maintains or repairs water wells and water well pumps.
Only certified individuals may drill, install, maintain or repair a water well or well system, and a certified master water well systems provider must be available at all times.
Water well and pump contracting firms (WWP) install the well, pump and tank, including pipe and wire, up to the connection with the home's plumbing and electrical systems.
The Board for Contractors rule does not exclude plumbing, electrical or HVAC contractors from installing pumps and tanks, though only WWP firms may build wells.
Sources: Water well systems provider covers pumps; WWP contractor specialty
How owners check a certification
VDH recommends checking DPOR's website to verify a well service provider is properly licensed.
VDH publishes a provider map but does not endorse or recommend any well service provider or laboratory.
For a stand-alone well inspection, VDH recommends a licensed water well service provider.
Before acting on test results, VDH advises consulting a licensed water well system provider.
Sources: Check the license with DPOR; Well inspections for home sales; Consult a pro before treating water
Common questions
Who certifies well pump installers in Virginia?
Virginia's Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR) certifies water well systems providers at trainee, journeyman and master levels, and that certification is mandatory for water well construction.