Application Fee
See board websiteVerified by IA Board of Business
Civil Engineer Licensing in Iowa
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for civil engineer in Iowa, including See board website and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Both state and third-party exams requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Civil Engineer in Iowa
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Both state and third-party exams required
- Application Fee: See board website
- Experience: Work experience required
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Inspections, Appeals, & Licensing • Professional Licensing & Regulation Bureau
- Current Filing Fee
See board website
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$94,500 median (5% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#35 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet Iowa eligibility requirements for Civil Engineer licensure.
- 2. Complete required education: Degree required.
- 3. Pass the required examination: Both state and third-party exams required.
- 4. Submit your application to the Department of Inspections, Appeals, & Licensing~Professional Licensing & Regulation Bureau.
Salary Insights in Iowa
With a median salary of 94,500, Civil Engineers in Iowa earn 5% below the national median of 99590. Iowa ranks #35 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.4%Average Weekly Wage
$1,154Median annual salary
$94,500Hourly estimate
$45.435% below national median
Difference: -$5,090
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCivil Engineer Salary Ranking
#35 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 region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Iowa | $94,500 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | 6-24 months |
| Minnesota | $101,440 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Wisconsin | $90,770 | No educational requirements | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Illinois | $97,640 | No educational requirements | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $93,020 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Nebraska | $99,360 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| South Dakota | $95,110 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
License 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Iowa | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Minnesota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Wisconsin | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Illinois | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Missouri | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Nebraska | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board.
Official Licensing Agency
Department of Inspections, Appeals, & Licensing • Professional Licensing & Regulation Bureau
6200 Park Avenue Des Moines, IA 50321, Suite 100, Des Moines, IA, 50309
Phone: 5157259022
Related Careers in Iowa
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $86,990 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Certified Public Accountant | $74,290 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $81,790 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Funeral Director | $63,770 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Civil Engineer in Iowa?
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 exams are required for Civil Engineers in Iowa?
Iowa lists Both state and third-party exams required as part of the licensure process for Civil Engineers.
What education do you need to become a Civil Engineer in Iowa?
The board typically expects Degree required for Civil Engineer licensure in Iowa.
What is the typical Civil Engineer salary in Iowa?
The median annual salary for Civil Engineers in Iowa is 94,500. Salaries range from 63860 (10th percentile) to 134230 (90th percentile).
How does the Civil Engineer salary in Iowa compare to the national average?
Civil Engineers in Iowa earn 5% below the national median of 99590, with a state median of 94,500.
How many Civil Engineers work in Iowa?
Iowa employs approximately 2560 Civil Engineers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Civil Engineer license to Iowa from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board.
Who is the licensing agency for Civil Engineers in Iowa?
The licensing agency is Department of Inspections, Appeals, & Licensing / Professional Licensing & Regulation Bureau. Review agency details at http://www.plb.iowa.gov/.