MAY 17, 2005 – SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS – Pioneer Drilling Company (AMEX: PDC) announced today that it intends to release the financial results for its fiscal fourth quarter and year end results on Thursday, May 26, 2005 at 6:00 a.m. eastern time. In conjunction with the upcoming release, Pioneer Drilling has scheduled a conference call, which will be broadcast live over the Internet, on Thursday, May 26, 2005 at 11:00 a.m. eastern time (10:00 a.m. central).

What: Pioneer Drilling’s Fiscal Fourth Quarter and Year End Conference Call

When: Thursday, May 26, 2005 – 11:00 a.m. eastern time

How: Live via phone - By dialing (303) 262-2138 and asking for the Pioneer Drilling call 10 minutes prior to the start time. Or live over the Internet by logging on to the web address below.

Where: http://www.pioneerdrlg.com

For those who cannot listen to the live call, a replay will be available through June 2, 2005, and may be accessed by calling (303) 590-3000 using pass code 11030919. Also, an archive of the webcast will be available shortly after the call on more information, please contact Donna Washburn at DRG www.pioneerdrlg.com. For&E at 713-529-6600 or email  dmw@drg-e.com.

Pioneer Drilling Company provides land contract drilling services to independent and major oil and gas operators drilling wells in north, east and south Texas, Oklahoma and in the Rocky Mountain region. Pioneer Drilling’s fleet consists of 50 land drilling rigs that drill in depth ranges between 6,000 and 18,000 feet.