Lead testing
For independent drinking-water testing, contact a state-certified drinking-water laboratory. Ask whether its current certification scope covers lead and request its sample-collection instructions.
Water Testing Finder lists 2,010 laboratory records across 22 certifying states. These are database counts, not a claim that every currently certified laboratory nationwide is listed.
Labs for home testing: 1,599. Commercial and industrial: 295. Plant and utility: 116.
Water Testing Finder lists laboratories from official state certification records. A listing does not establish that a laboratory currently tests for lead or accepts residential samples. Confirm its current test scope, sample acceptance, collection instructions, and fees with the laboratory.
Frequently asked questions
How do I find a certified laboratory for lead testing?
Choose a state and review the laboratory’s certification record. Ask the laboratory whether its current scope includes lead testing and request its sample-collection instructions.
Can the US Environmental Protection Agency test residential water samples on request?
No. The US Environmental Protection Agency says it is unable to test residential or commercial drinking water upon request. It encourages individuals seeking independent testing to contact a state-certified drinking-water laboratory.
Does a listing guarantee that a laboratory accepts residential samples?
No. Contact the laboratory to confirm whether it accepts your sample and which instructions apply.
Related pages
- Lead in drinking water
- Browse laboratories by certifying state
- Glossary: state-certified drinking-water laboratory
- Glossary: analyte or test scope
Sources
- US Environmental Protection Agency, “Contact Information for Certification Programs and Certified Laboratories for Drinking Water”: https://www.epa.gov/dwlabcert/contact-information-certification-programs-and-certified-laboratories-drinking-water (accessed October 19, 2026).
- The agency source supports the general recommendation to contact a state-certified laboratory. It does not establish which laboratories currently test for lead; visitors must confirm with the laboratory.