NGWA CPI study guide
NGWA CPI · Work through your exam, one topic at a time.
The Certified Pump Installer (CPI) credential is administered by the National Ground Water Association (NGWA), a groundwater industry association whose certification programs sit under its "Advance Your Career" section alongside contractor certification, the Geothermal Driller (CVCLD) credential, certification FAQs, and a public directory of NGWA certified professionals. The CPI is intended for the tradespeople who install, service, and troubleshoot water well pumping equipment - the people who set pumps, size and connect drop pipe and wiring, and commission the system so it delivers water reliably. The NGWA CPI study guide has 4 sections and about 1,249 words.
01Pump Systems and Installation
This domain tests how a pump installer selects, sets, and starts a pump so that it matches the well, the plumbing, and the customer's demand. Expect questions on submersible and jet pumps, drop pipe and fittings, pressure tanks, check valves, pitless adapters, well seals, and startup checks.
354 words, about 2 min02Water Wells and Groundwater Fundamentals
This domain tests the groundwater and well-construction knowledge a pump installer needs before choosing equipment: aquifer behavior, water levels, well yield, and sanitary protection. An unconfined aquifer has a water table; a confined aquifer is under pressure and has a potentiometric surface.
309 words, about 2 min03Electrical and Controls for Pumping Equipment
This domain tests safe electrical work around pumps: motor circuits, wire sizing, voltage drop, starting components, pressure and float controls, and protective devices. Ohm's law: E = I × R.
297 words, about 1 min04Regulations, Safety, and Business Practice
This domain tests the rules and job practices around pump installation: permits, well records, safety, contracts, and liability. The exam expects you to know that local requirements can be stricter than federal rules and that written documentation protects both the contractor and the customer.
289 words, about 1 min