How to find out is a well has been spud?

Is there a way to find out if a well has been spud? Where would I look to find this information? Also does the lease go into effect on the day it was written or the day it was signed?

Generally, the lease goes into effect on the effective date which is the near the very top of the lease. Some states may have different rules. What state are you in?

Each producing state has its own oil and gas commission. They usually have ways to look up the spud date. Again, which state are you in so we can direct your question to the right area?

The lease is for McClain County Oklahoma

Then yes, the effective date is at the very top of the lease.
You can look up the spud information at the Oklahoma Corporation Commission website. They are listed by the surface location. If you can’t find it in your section, then try one section north or south. Or tell me which Section, Township and Range and I can get you the correct section quickly.
http://imaging.occeweb.com/imaging/OGWellRecords.aspx