The Certified Well Driller (CWD) and Certified Pump Installer (CPI) exams are designed to test your knowledge of specialized equipment and geologic formations within each certification area. Each exam consists of 50 questions with a mix of true/false and multiple choice questions.
To earn the CWD designation, you must pass the drilling general exam and at least one other specialized drilling exam.
To earn the CPI designation, you must pass the water systems general exam and at least one other specialized pump exam.
You must pass both exams within one 12-month period with scores of 70 percent or better to become certified. If an exam is failed, there is a 90-day waiting period before you may retest in that category.
Exam categories
Drilling categories (as of January 1, 2005):
- General drilling exam
- Exam A/B: Cable tool drilling
- Exam C/D: Air rotary drilling
- Exam E/F: Mud rotary drilling
- Exam G: Reverse circulation drilling
- Exam H: Jetting and driving wells
Pump categories (as of January 1, 2005):
- Water systems general exam
- Exam K: Water systems less than 100 gpm
- Exam L: Water systems more than 100 gpm
Specialty exam categories:
- Exam M: Augering and monitoring
- Exam N: Well servicing and maintenance
- Exam O: Ground water heat pumps
Preparing for the exams
NGWA has designed a Voluntary Certification Exam Study Guide that covers study materials for all exams currently offered by NGWA. Recent additions to this guide include a glossary of terms, test-taking tips, and a sample exam. The guide can be purchased through the NGWA online store. For more information about other NGWA recommended study materials, call customer service at 800 551.7379 (614 898.7792).
Exam fees
NGWA members: $75 per exam
Nonmembers: $275 for two exams; $75 for each additional exam
When and where can I take the exams?
You can take the exams at your convenience year-round at any one of more than 1,000 locations nationwide. LaserGrade, one of the largest test center networks in North America, administers the online exams for NGWA. Visit www.lasergrade.com/ngw.shtml and enter your zip code to find a listing of test sites in your area. If you cannot located what you need, can call LaserGrade Central Registration at 800 211.2754 (360 896.9111 if you are outside of the United States). The program is easy to use and does not require any computer skills.
Once you are certified...
Once you achieve the status of CWD or CPI, to maintain certification you must commit to annual continuing education. If you don't report your continuing education points and pay recertification fees, you won't be recognized as certified.