In this paper, a fuzzy controller applied to variable-speed drive for the use in direct-coupled photovoltaic (PV) pumping systems is proposed. The fuzzy logic system used is of the Mandani type, embedded in a microcontroller, and corresponds to a proportional-derivative controller. A low-power PV module is used to detected variations in the irradiance incident on the PV array. Experimental tests are performed using a motopump testing workbench, which is able to simulate water wells with different manometric heights. The results show that the fuzzy controller is capable of operating the system continuously throughout the day, with an average efficiency of 23%.