1. What is NGWA certification?
Since 1970, the National Ground Water Association (NGWA) Voluntary Certification Program has recognized groundwater professionals who demonstrate knowledge, experience, and a commitment to quality in the groundwater industry.
Developed by groundwater professionals, the program promotes professionalism, supports ongoing professional development, and helps advance the shared goal of protecting public health and groundwater resources.
NGWA certification is a voluntary professional credential that demonstrates an individual’s commitment to excellence and continued growth in the groundwater industry.
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 exams do I need to take to be certified?
The number of exams required depends on the certification designation. The CWD and CPI designations require two exams each (a general knowledge exam and a specific exam). The CVCLD designation requires one exam. Additional eligibility and application requirements may apply.
4. Is NGWA membership required to become certified?
No. However, members pay discounted fees for exams, study materials, and annual recertification fees.
5. Will I renew my certification every year?
All certification renewal requirements must be fulfilled by December 31. Renewal applications submitted after this date but received by January 31 will be accepted without a late fee. Please note that renewing your NGWA membership does not renew your certification. Membership and certification renewal must be completed separately.
6. Do I have to attend trade shows to earn continuing education?
No. Continuing education can be earned in a variety of ways. Attendance at a trade show may be helpful in earning continuing education, but there are several alternatives. Contact NGWA or click here for more information about maintaining certification.
7. Can I become certified in more than one category?
Yes. If you meet the qualifications of any particular designation, it can be obtained regardless of any other designations you may already have. For example, if you meet the requirements for the CVCLD designation after already having earned the CWD designation, your new designation would read CWD/CVCLD.
8. I own a well drilling company and employ several drillers. Am I expected to pay renewal fees for all of them?
NGWA certification is maintained at the individual level, regardless of employer or employment status. It is the individual’s responsibility to maintain his/her certification.
9. Where and when can I take NGWA’s exams? NGWA certification exams are administered by PSI at testing centers nationwide. Visit the PSI website to find a testing center, review scheduling information, and register for an exam. If you are having difficulty with scheduling, please contact the NGWA Certification Coordinator.
https://test-takers.psiexams.com/ngwa.
10. If I fail the certification exam, how long do I have to wait to retake the exam?
There is no waiting period to retake a failed exam. Candidates must pass all required exams within one 12-month period, with a score of 70% or better on each exam. Certification application materials must also be received within 12 months of the qualifying exam session.
11. What do I need to know to take the exams?
Certification exams are tailored to the topics that they cover. Topics covered generally apply to site-related mobilization, well construction, well components, well development, rehabilitating wells, decommissioning wells, pumping systems, and job-site safety practices.
12. Do you offer any resources to help pass the exams?
NGWA offers exam-specific study reference sheets and a list of recommended reading material. NGWA also offers practices exams and preparation webinars on the NGWA Learning Center.
13. I used to be certified and let it lapse two or more years ago. What do I need to do?
You must retake the exams and follow the same procedures as anyone initially entering the program. Any previously earned category exams will no longer apply until the exams are passed again.
14. I passed the two required exams with a 70 percent or better score. How do I become certified?
After passing the required exams, submit your certification application, including two written professional references and the required affidavit. Application materials must be received within 12 months of the qualifying exam session.
15. I have passed the exams for licensing in my state. I would like to become NGWA certified. What do I do?
A candidate who passed exams for state licensing will still need to submit the NGWA certification application and meet all eligibility requirements to obtain certification.
16. What’s the difference between NGWA certification and state licensing?
NGWA certification and state licensing are separate programs with different requirements. NGWA’s Voluntary Certification Program is administered and governed by NGWA. The states using NGWA’s certification exams as a component for licensing must adhere to the rules and regulations approved by their respective state legislatures. In most states, licensure is a legal requirement to be able to drill wells or install pumps and is separate from NGWA certification. For information on NGWA’s Voluntary Certification Program, contact NGWA. For information on state licensing requirements, contact the state you are interested in.
17. Do I have to be a member of NGWA to take exams for state licensing?
Exam fees depend on the exam being taken. The current fee for most NGWA exams is $75 per exam. The vertical closed loop drilling exam is $125.
18. How do I receive my scores?
If you take an exam through PSI, you will receive your score report immediately after completing the exam. Be sure to collect your score report before leaving the testing center.
19. I have questions about my certified status. Whom should I contact?
Contact the NGWA certification coordinator at certification@ngwa.org, (800) 551-7379, or (614) 898-7791 outside the United States.