Safe drinking water is taken for granted by most Americans, but many do not realize that it may be up to them to ensure the quality of the water they drink every day. Over 15 million households rely on a private well as their primary source of drinking water. The National Environmental Health Association conducted an overview of private well water quality testing regulations and guidance in each state to determine the variability of public health protection in well programs across the country. Common issues found in well programs will be discussed, in addition to components found throughout strong well programs.