New Mexico requires a state-level well driller license. The licensing authority is State Dept of Natural Resources / Water Board. The median salary is $47,720 per year.
Last updated 2026-05-08
New Mexico requires a well driller to hold a state license. Drill, install, and maintain water wells for residential, commercial, and agricultural use. Licensing is administered by the State Dept of Natural Resources / Water Board.
| Minimum Age | 18 years old |
| Education | Apprenticeship or supervised experience (1-3 years) |
| Experience Details | Apprenticeship or supervised experience (1-3 years) |
New Mexico requires passing the New Mexico Well Driller License Exam with a minimum score of 70%. The application fee is $75.
| Exam Name | New Mexico Well Driller License Exam |
| Passing Score | 70% |
| Code Edition | Well Driller License Exam |
| Application Fee | $75 |
Getting licensed as a well driller in New Mexico takes 24 months on the typical path. Here are the steps.
The total cost includes an exam application fee of $75 and renewal fees of $75 every 2 years. Continuing education of 8 hours is required per renewal cycle.
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| Exam Application | $75 |
| License Renewal | $75 every 2 years |
| Continuing Education | 8 hours |
Well Drillers in New Mexico earn a median salary of $47,720, which is less than the national average. Data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
| Mean (average) | — / year |
| Entry level (10th pct) | — |
| Top earners (90th pct) | — |
| Total employed | — in New Mexico |
| National average | $52,440 |
Yes — New Mexico requires a state-level well driller license. Drill, install, and maintain water wells for residential, commercial, and agricultural use.
The required exam is the New Mexico Well Driller License Exam. You need a score of 70% to pass. The exam fee is $75.
The median annual salary for well drillers in New Mexico is $47,720. The national median is $52,440.
New Mexico requires 8 hours of continuing education for license renewal every 2 years.
The fastest path takes approximately 6 months. The typical path takes 24 months including experience requirements.