Well Driller License in Alabama

Everything you need to know about getting your well driller license in Alabama. A state license is required.

How to Get Licensed: Step by Step

Meet Basic Requirements

Be at least 18 years old with a valid ID. Pass a background check.

Complete Education

High school diploma or GED; geology or hydrology coursework preferred

Gain 3 Years of Experience

Minimum 3 years of well drilling experience under a licensed well driller.

Complete Apprenticeship

Complete 6,000 hours of apprenticeship training.

Pass the Well Driller Certification Exam

Obtain Insurance & Bonding

Secure General Liability, Workers Compensation, Pollution Liability insurance and a $8,200 surety bond.

Submit Application

Apply to the Alabama Licensing Board for General Contractors. Pay the application and license fees.

Requirements

Age Requirement	18+
Experience	3 years — Minimum 3 years of well drilling experience under a licensed well driller.
Education	High school diploma or GED; geology or hydrology coursework preferred
Apprenticeship	6,000 hours
Background Check	Required

Fee Breakdown

Application Fee$80

License Fee$165

Exam Fee$145

Total Initial Cost$390

Renewal Fee (every 2 years)$125

Exam Information

Exam Name: Well Driller Certification Exam
Provider: National Ground Water Association
Exam Fee: $145

Insurance & Bonding

Insurance Requirements

Required Types:

General Liability
Workers Compensation
Pollution Liability

Minimum Coverage:

$500,000 per occurrence / $1,000,000 aggregate

Surety Bond

A surety bond of $8,200 is required.

Continuing Education

Hours Required: 12 hours
Period: Every 2 years

License Reciprocity

Alabama has reciprocity agreements with the following states. This typically means the trade exam may be waived, but you'll still need to meet other state requirements.

Alaska Louisiana Mississippi North Carolina Tennessee

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a license to work as a well driller in Alabama?

Yes, Alabama requires a state license for well drillers. The license is issued by the Alabama Licensing Board for General Contractors.

How much does a well driller license cost in Alabama?

The total initial cost is approximately $390, which includes the application fee ($80), license fee ($165), and exam fee ($145). Renewal costs $125 every 2 years.

How long does it take to get a well driller license in Alabama?

You'll need 3 years of experience before you can apply. Once you meet all requirements, the application process typically takes 4-8 weeks.

Is there a well driller exam in Alabama?

Yes, you must pass the Well Driller Certification Exam, administered by National Ground Water Association. The exam fee is $145.

Does Alabama have reciprocity with other states for well driller licenses?

Yes, Alabama has reciprocity agreements with 5 other states. This may waive the trade exam, but you'll still need to meet other requirements.

Last verified: March 4, 2026

Information sourced from Alabama Licensing Board for General Contractors. Always verify directly with the licensing authority for the most current requirements.

See something inaccurate?

Licensing requirements change frequently. If you notice outdated or incorrect information about Alabama Well Driller License, please let us know.

Other Trades in Alabama

General Contractor Electrician Plumber HVAC Technician Roofing Contractor Painting Contractor

Well Driller in Other States

Alaska Arizona Arkansas California Colorado Connecticut