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Well Driller License in Tennessee

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

How to Get Licensed: Step by Step

1

Meet Basic Requirements

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

2

Complete Education

High school diploma or GED; geology or hydrology coursework preferred

3

Gain 3 Years of Experience

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

4

Complete Apprenticeship

Complete 6,000 hours of apprenticeship training.

5

Pass the Well Driller Certification Exam

Register with National Ground Water Association and pass the required licensing exam.

6

Obtain Insurance & Bonding

Secure General Liability, Workers Compensation, Pollution Liability insurance and a $8,700 surety bond.

7

Submit Application

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

Requirements

Age Requirement18+
Experience3 years — Minimum 3 years of well drilling experience under a licensed well driller.
EducationHigh school diploma or GED; geology or hydrology coursework preferred
Apprenticeship6,000 hours
Background CheckRequired

Fee Breakdown

Application Fee$85
License Fee$175
Exam Fee$150
Total Initial Cost$410
Renewal Fee (every 2 years)$130

Exam Information

Exam Name
Well Driller Certification Exam
Provider
National Ground Water Association
Exam Fee
$150

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 $8,700 is required.

Continuing Education

Hours Required
12 hours
Period
Every 2 years

License Reciprocity

Tennessee 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.

AlabamaAlaskaLouisianaMississippiNorth CarolinaSouth CarolinaWest Virginia

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a license to work as a well driller in Tennessee?
Yes, Tennessee requires a state license for well drillers. The license is issued by the Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors.
How much does a well driller license cost in Tennessee?
The total initial cost is approximately $410, which includes the application fee ($85), license fee ($175), and exam fee ($150). Renewal costs $130 every 2 years.
How long does it take to get a well driller license in Tennessee?
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 Tennessee?
Yes, you must pass the Well Driller Certification Exam, administered by National Ground Water Association. The exam fee is $150.
Does Tennessee have reciprocity with other states for well driller licenses?
Yes, Tennessee has reciprocity agreements with 7 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 Tennessee Board for Licensing 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 Tennessee Well Driller License, please let us know.

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