Getting a water well or pump installer license in Wisconsin

Getting licensed in Wisconsin

Unlike well drillers, pump installer applicants in Wisconsin need no prior experience; they apply for the exam by mail and must pass it.

State law sets the annual pump installer license fee at $25.

A pump installing business registration costs $25 a year under state law.

To keep a driller or pump installer license, Wisconsin licensees must meet DNR continuing education rules and renew every year.

Sources: Pump installer license by exam; License fee

Who needs a license

A business that installs well pumps in Wisconsin must register with the DNR as a pump installing business, unless the person is a licensed pump installer or works for one.

State law limits pitless adapter installation to licensed pump installers, their employees or employees of a registered pump installing business, and welders under contract with them.

The DNR says follow-up work after a property transfer inspection, such as filling and sealing an old well, must be done by a licensed water well driller or pump installer.

Sources: Pump installing business registration; Repairs after an inspection

How owners check a license

The DNR posts directories of licensed well drilling, pump installing, filling and sealing, and property transfer inspection services, listed by the counties they serve.

For a well inspection during a sale, hire a licensed water well driller or licensed pump installer. The DNR notes a home inspector may not have the required license.

By state law, only a licensed water well driller or licensed pump installer may make a paid statement about a well's condition, compliance or performance when a property is sold.

Sources: DNR service directories; Home inspectors may not qualify