TDLR Water Well Renewal: Complete Guide to Texas License Renewal

Keep your water well license active with timely renewal

Renewing your Texas water well driller or pump installer license with TDLR requires completing continuing education and submitting your renewal on time. Whether you hold a water well driller license, pump installer license, or both, understanding the renewal process ensures you stay compliant and avoid lapses in your licensing status.

Renewal Requirements

All Texas water well licenses require annual renewal with TDLR. Here's what you need:

• Continuing Education: Complete TDLR-approved CE annually
• Current License Number: Have your TDLR water well license number ready
• Renewal Fee: Pay the applicable TDLR renewal fee online
• On-Time Submission: Renew before your license expiration date

Renewal Timeline

Texas water well licenses expire annually on the licensee's birthday. Plan ahead to avoid late penalties:

• 60 days before expiration: Complete your CE requirement
• 30 days before expiration: Submit renewal application to TDLR
• Renewal opens 90 days before your expiration date
• Late renewals incur additional fees and may require reinstatement

Complete your CE requirement online before renewal

CE Requirements by License Type

Water well license types have specific continuing education requirements:

• Water Well Driller: TDLR-approved CE covering well construction and groundwater conservation
• Pump Installer: TDLR-approved CE focused on pump installation and water systems
• Dual License Holders: CE covering both drilling and pump installation topics
• Specialty Endorsements: Additional CE may be required for specialized activities

Online Renewal Process

Renewing your license through TDLR's online portal is quick and convenient:

• Log in to your TDLR account at www.tdlr.texas.gov
• Navigate to "Renew My License" section
• Enter your CE completion certificate information
• Pay renewal fee with credit card or electronic check
• Receive confirmation and updated license immediately

Common Renewal Mistakes to Avoid

Don't let these common issues delay your renewal:

• Waiting until the last minute to complete CE
• Using non-TDLR approved CE providers
• Entering incorrect license numbers on CE certificates
• Forgetting to update business or insurance information
• Not verifying groundwater conservation district compliance

Additional Compliance Requirements

Beyond TDLR renewal, water well professionals must also comply with:

• Local groundwater conservation district registration and reporting
• Well completion reports filed within required timeframes
• Liability insurance requirements for drilling operations
• Municipal or county permitting where applicable

What Happens If Your License Expires

Working with an expired water well license is illegal in Texas and can result in substantial fines. If your license lapses, you must stop drilling operations immediately and complete the reinstatement process, which includes late fees and potentially additional requirements.