North Dakota renewal guide
Water Well Contractor License
If this license is up for renewal, this page gives you the fee, the timeline, and the items that usually hold the filing up.
Start here
What matters before you file.
Check the fee, the renewal window, and the documents or insurance records that can slow approval down.
Issuing authority
Renewal period
Every 12 months
Renewal fee
$200.00
Bond requirement
Yes — $15,000.00
Insurance requirement
Yes — General Liability, Workers' Compensation
Continuing education
6 hours
Before you renew
Get the filing straight.
- 1
Finish the CE first
Complete the 6 required hours before you start the renewal.
- 2
Make sure the bond still clears
The $15,000.00 bond requirement needs to stay active through the renewal.
- 3
Check the insurance certificates
Make sure the required policies are current and match what the board or agency expects before you file.
- 4
File with the board
File through North Dakota Department of Water Resources and pay the $200.00 renewal fee once the supporting proof is ready.
Renew online - 5
Leave room for processing
Typical processing time is 30 days, so do not wait until the last minute.
Detailed notes
The fine print is here.
North Dakota Water Well Contractor License
The North Dakota Department of Water Resources (formerly State Water Commission) issues the Water Well Contractor license for businesses that drill, construct, alter, or repair water wells. This is the only contractor license in North Dakota that requires a surety bond at the state level.
What This License Authorizes
Water Well Contractors may drill, construct, alter, repair, and abandon water wells throughout North Dakota. This includes domestic, municipal, irrigation, and industrial water wells.
Bond and Insurance Requirements
- Surety Bond: $15,000 certified water well driller bond required
- General Liability Insurance: Required for drilling operations
- Workers' Compensation: Required if you have employees
Fees
- Application Fee: $200 (active license to drill)
- Annual Renewal Fee: $200 (active) or $100 (inactive/hold license only)
Continuing Education
- 6 hours per two-year cycle required for renewal
- Courses must be approved by the Department of Water Resources
- Updated bond documentation must accompany renewal
Renewal Process
- Renewal Period: Annually, due by April 1
- Renewal Fee: $200 (active) or $100 (inactive)
- Required: Updated bond and continuing education documentation
Consequences of Operating Without a License
Drilling water wells without a valid license from the Department of Water Resources is a violation of NDCC 43-35. The Department may revoke licenses, impose fines, and refer violations for criminal prosecution.
*Disclaimer: This information is provided for general reference only and does not constitute legal advice. Always verify current requirements directly with the North Dakota Department of Water Resources.*
Official links
Check the board or agency directly.
Required documents
- Proof of Insurance
- Bond Certificate
- proof_of_experience
Source notes
North Dakota Department of Water Resources, NDCC Chapter 43-35 . Verified March 2026. https://www.dwr.nd.gov/reg_approp/water_well_contractor/
Rules move. Check North Dakota Department of Water Resources again before you pay, renew, or schedule work around this requirement.
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North Dakota checklist
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