Application Fee
See board websiteVerified by CA Board of Business
Civil Engineer Licensing in California
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for civil engineer in California, including See board website and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Civil Engineer in California
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Register with licensing agency
- Education: Varies by state board
- Examination: State-approved exam
- Application Fee: See board website
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Consumer Affairs • Board for Professional Engineers, Land Surveyors, and Geologists
- Current Filing Fee
See board website
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$118,450 median (19% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#1 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet California eligibility requirements for Civil Engineer licensure.
- 2. Complete approved education or training requirements.
- 3. Pass required state examinations.
- 4. Submit your application to the Department of Consumer Affairs~Board for Professional Engineers, Land Surveyors, and Geologists.
Salary Insights in California
With a median salary of 118,450, Civil Engineers in California earn 19% above the national median of 99590. California ranks #1 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1.4%Average Weekly Wage
$1,758Median annual salary
$118,450Hourly estimate
$56.9519% above national median
Difference: +$18,860
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCivil Engineer Salary Ranking
#1 of 50 statesfor Civil Engineer median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | California | 118,450 |
| #2 | Rhode Island | 112,250 |
| #3 | Alaska | 107,240 |
| #4 | Washington | 105,090 |
| #5 | New Mexico | 104,600 |
Nearby States Comparison
Civil Engineer licensing across the regionLicense by Endorsement
Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.
| State | Reciprocity Score | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Oregon | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Nevada | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Arizona | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board.
Official Licensing Agency
Department of Consumer Affairs • Board for Professional Engineers, Land Surveyors, and Geologists
2535 Capital Oaks Drive, Suite 300, Sacramento, CA, 95833-2944
Phone: 916993635
Related Careers in California
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $105,840 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Certified Public Accountant | $96,360 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $128,650 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Funeral Director | $47,170 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Civil Engineer in California?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 6-24 months, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What is the typical Civil Engineer salary in California?
The median annual salary for Civil Engineers in California is 118,450. Salaries range from 77620 (10th percentile) to 171760 (90th percentile).
How does the Civil Engineer salary in California compare to the national average?
Civil Engineers in California earn 19% above the national median of 99590, with a state median of 118,450.
How many Civil Engineers work in California?
California employs approximately 54640 Civil Engineers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Civil Engineer license to California from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board.
Who is the licensing agency for Civil Engineers in California?
The licensing agency is Department of Consumer Affairs / Board for Professional Engineers, Land Surveyors, and Geologists. Review agency details at https://www.bpelsg.ca.gov/.