Career roadmap
How to Become a Water Well Driller
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a water well driller, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a water well driller: (1) get hired as a driller’s helper, (2) earn a CDL, (3) learn geology and well construction, (4) earn a license, (5) advance. Most people need about 1–3 years. BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a water well driller
Get hired as a driller’s helper
Learn the rig.
Earn a CDL
Drive rigs and trucks.
Learn geology and well construction
On-the-job training.
Earn a license
Pass state exams.
Advance
Run your own rig or business.
Education and training requirements
A high school diploma and a few years of experience are typical, plus long on-the-job training. Many states license drillers.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | High school diploma or equivalent |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | Less than 5 years |
| On-the-job training | Long-term on-the-job training |
| Typical training time | 1–3 years |
Certifications and licenses
- State water well driller license: Required in many states.
- NGWA Certified Well Driller: National Ground Water Association credential.
- CDL: For rig and support trucks.
- IGSHPA geothermal driller: Geothermal credential.
Skills to build now
Start with drill rig operation, geology basics, and casing and grouting, and practice problem solving and independence. Learning the water well driller vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Driller’s Helper: Learn the rig.
- Driller: Run rigs.
- Lead or Master Driller: Lead crews.
- Drilling Business Owner: Run a company.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Water Well Driller training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
Do drillers need a degree?
No, training is on the job.
How long does it take to become a water well driller?
Most people need about 1–3 years of training. A high school diploma and a few years of experience are typical, plus long on-the-job training. Many states license drillers.
Do you need a degree to be a water well driller?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education, plus long-term on-the-job training.
What certifications are available for water well drillers?
Common credentials include State water well driller license, NGWA Certified Well Driller, CDL, and IGSHPA geothermal driller. Many states license water well drillers and require well logs and construction standards.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 47-5023 (Earth drillers, except oil and gas).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Earth drillers, except oil and gas (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.