Indiana Well Drilling — FAQ
Common questions about well drillers, licensing, costs, permits, and water testing in Indiana.
Does Indiana require a license to drill a water well?
Yes. Indiana Code 25-39-3 requires all water well drillers and pump installers to be individually licensed by the Indiana DNR Division of Water before performing any work. The DNR licenses the individual, not the company — so you must verify that the specific person doing the work (not just the company) holds a valid license.
How do I verify an Indiana well driller's license?
Contact the Indiana DNR Division of Water at (877) 928-3755 (Option 4) or (317) 234-1087, or email DOWWRU@dnr.in.gov. Ask for verification of the individual driller's license number, type, and expiration date. Licenses expire December 31st of the year issued.
What is the difference between a well driller and a pump installer in Indiana?
Indiana issues separate licenses for well drillers (who drill new wells and deepen existing ones) and pump installers (who install, service, and repair water well pumping equipment). Some individuals hold both licenses. A licensed well driller cannot install pumps without a pump installer license, and vice versa.
Do I need a permit to drill a new water well in Indiana?
Indiana does not require a statewide construction permit specifically for water wells, but local county or municipal requirements may apply. Your licensed well driller should be familiar with local rules. A water well completion report must be filed with the DNR Division of Water within 60 days of completing the well.
How much does it cost to drill a water well in Indiana?
Costs vary by depth, geology, casing type, and pump system. Expect $15–$30 per foot for drilling, plus casing, grouting, pump, pressure tank, and hookup costs. A complete residential well system in Indiana typically ranges from $5,000 to $15,000 or more depending on depth and location. Always get multiple written quotes.
How deep are water wells in Indiana?
Well depths vary significantly across Indiana depending on the aquifer. Shallow wells in glaciated areas (northern Indiana) may be 50–200 feet. Bedrock wells in southern Indiana often range from 200–600 feet. Your contractor will assess local geology before drilling. The DNR's water well record database has historical depth data by area.
Do contractors on this list service the entire state?
Not necessarily. The addresses shown are business office locations, not service areas. Contractors may serve areas far beyond their listed county, or may limit their service radius. Always contact the contractor directly to confirm they serve your specific area before scheduling work.
Should I test my well water after drilling?
Yes. All new wells should be tested for bacteria (coliform), nitrates, and any local contaminants of concern before use. Indiana does not require water testing by law, but lenders financing rural property often require it. Contact your county health department or IDEM for guidance on approved testing labs. Radon in well water is also a concern in some Indiana counties — see inradonpros.com.
What is a well completion report and who files it?
Indiana law requires the licensed well driller to submit a well completion report to the DNR Division of Water within 60 days of completing a new well or modifying an existing one. The report documents the well's location, construction details, geology encountered, and static water level. These records are public and can be searched through the DNR's IGWS water well database.
How often should a water well pump be serviced?
Most experts recommend having your well system inspected every 3–5 years by a licensed pump installer. Signs of problems include reduced water pressure, air spurting from faucets, discolored water, pump cycling frequently, or unusually high electricity bills. Only a DNR-licensed pump installer should work on submersible pump systems in Indiana.
Ready to Find a Well Driller?
Browse Indiana DNR-registered well drillers near you. Every listing includes a direct phone number.
Find a Licensed Well Driller