Nebraska renewal guide
Well Drilling Contractor License
If this license is up for renewal, this page shows who handles it, when it renews, and what you should have ready before you submit.
Start here
What matters before you file.
Check the timing first, then make sure the records tied to the license are still current.
Issuing authority
Renewal period
Every 24 months
Bond requirement
No
Insurance requirement
No
Continuing education
Continuing education hours are required for renewal; specific hour requirements are set by the Water Well Standards and Contractors' Licensing Board under Title 178 NAC 11.
Before you renew
Get the filing straight.
- 1
Finish the CE first
Meet the current CE rule before you start the filing: Continuing education hours are required for renewal; specific hour requirements are set by the Water Well Standards and Contractors' Licensing Board under Title 178 NAC 11.
- 2
File with the board
File through Nebraska Department of Water, Energy, and Environment once the supporting proof is ready.
Renew online
Detailed notes
The fine print is here.
Nebraska Well Drilling Contractor License
The Nebraska Department of Water, Energy, and Environment (DWEE) issues the Well Drilling Contractor (WDC) license under the Water Well Standards and Contractors' Practice Act (Neb. Rev. Stat. §§ 46-1201 to 46-1241). All water wells constructed in Nebraska must be drilled by a licensed contractor.
What This License Authorizes
The Well Drilling Contractor license authorizes the holder to construct new water wells, perform well repairs, and decommission water wells throughout the state. The WDC license is the contractor-level credential — it carries full responsibility for well construction work.
Related License Categories
DWEE also issues related water well credentials including supervisory licenses and pump installation contractor licenses. Contact DWEE at 402-471-4982 or dwee.moreinfo@nebraska.gov for a current list of all license categories and their requirements.
Examination Requirements
All WDC applicants must pass a written examination covering:
- Minimum standards for water wells
- Geological characteristics of Nebraska
- Current drilling practices and techniques
- Nebraska-specific requirements (Section I) and General Drilling (Section III)
Applicants must score at least 70% on each required examination section.
Fees
License fees are set by the Water Well Standards and Contractors' Licensing Board under Nebraska Title 178 NAC 11 and are not fixed in statute. Contact DWEE at 402-471-4982 or dwee.moreinfo@nebraska.gov for current fee amounts.
Renewal Process
- Renewal Period: Every 2 years
- Continuing Education: Required; specific hour requirements are set by the Board
- Renewal is managed through the DWEE Credentialing Portal
Consequences of Operating Without a License
Constructing or drilling water wells without a valid license violates the Water Well Standards and Contractors' Practice Act (Neb. Rev. Stat. §§ 46-1201 to 46-1241). Under § 46-1240, violators are subject to criminal penalties as a Class III misdemeanor and civil penalties of up to $500 per day per intentional violation, enforceable by mandatory injunction. Licensed contractors who allow unlicensed persons to drill wells may face license discipline.
*Disclaimer: This information is provided for general reference only and does not constitute legal advice. Always verify current requirements directly with the Nebraska Department of Water, Energy, and Environment.*
Official links
Check the board or agency directly.
Required documents
- proof_of_experience
Source notes
Nebraska DWEE — Water Well Standards and Contractors' Licensing Program . Verified May 2026. https://dwee.nebraska.gov/water-quality/groundwater/water-well-standards-and-contractors-licensing-program
Rules move. Check Nebraska Department of Water, Energy, and Environment again before you pay, renew, or schedule work around this requirement.
Some details could not be fully confirmed from public sources. Double-check the fee, timing, and supporting requirements with Nebraska Department of Water, Energy, and Environment.
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Next steps
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Printable checklist
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