How to Find an NJ-Certified Laboratory
Whether you're testing routinely or for a Private Well Testing Act transaction, the lab must be certified for the specific analytes you need.
Short answer: Use NJDEP's certified laboratory directory to find a lab certified for your required analytes, and confirm certification directly with the lab before sampling — certification can be analyte-specific.
Step-by-step
- Determine whether you need routine testing or Private Well Testing Act (PWTA) testing — the required analyte list can differ.
- Check NJDEP's certified laboratory directory for labs certified in your area.
- Ask the lab to confirm current certification for each specific analyte you need (bacteria, nitrate, arsenic, PFAS, etc.).
- Ask whether the lab provides sample bottles, collection instructions, or an in-house/certified collector for PWTA sampling.
- Confirm turnaround time and how results will be reported to you and, for PWTA, to NJDEP and other required parties.
Questions to ask a certified lab
- Are you currently certified for all analytes I need, including PFAS if applicable?
- Do you provide a certified sample collector, or do I need to arrange one separately?
- How will results be reported, and to whom, for a PWTA transaction?
- What is your turnaround time and cost per analyte panel?
Common mistakes
- Assuming a lab certified for one analyte is certified for all of them
- Using a general household testing kit for a PWTA transaction
- Self-collecting a sample meant for PWTA compliance
Official sources
- NJDEP Office of Quality Assurance certified laboratory directory
- NJDEP Private Well Testing Act program
Related
Can I use the same lab for routine and PWTA testing?
Possibly, but confirm the lab is certified for whichever specific analyte list applies to your situation, since routine and PWTA requirements are not always identical.
This page provides general educational information and is not legal or laboratory advice.
Last reviewed: 2026-07-11. Report a correction.