To achieve NGWA certification, contractors must pass exams testing their technical knowledge, and they must have at least twenty-four consecutive months of full-time ground water contracting experience. They maintain their certification by obtaining continuing education credits annually.

NGWA certification designations include:

• Certified Well Driller (CWD) – Encompasses general industry knowledge, as well as practice and expertise in at least one drilling method.
• Certified Vertical Closed Loop Driller (CVCLD)— An individual who knows the skills and competencies associated with constructing a loop well used in geothermal heating and cooling systems.
• Certified Pump Installer (CPI) – Encompasses general industry knowledge and practice and expertise in water systems.
• Master Ground Water Contractor (MGWC) – Demonstrates a high level of competency in both drilling operations and water systems.