Application Fee
See board websiteVerified by ND Board of Business
Civil Engineer Licensing in North Dakota
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for civil engineer in North Dakota, including See board website and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 12, 2026
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Civil Engineer in North Dakota
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See board website
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
- Continuing Education: Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
ND State Board of Registration for Professional Engineers & Land Surveyors
- Current Filing Fee
See board website
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$96,160 median (3% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#27 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet North Dakota eligibility requirements for Civil Engineer licensure.
- 2. Complete required education: Degree required.
- 3. Pass the required examination: Third-party exam required.
- 4. Submit your application to the ND State Board of Registration for Professional Engineers & Land Surveyors.
Salary Insights in North Dakota
With a median salary of 96,160, Civil Engineers in North Dakota earn 3% below the national median of 99590. North Dakota ranks #27 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$96,160Hourly estimate
$46.233% below national median
Difference: -$3,430
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCivil Engineer Salary Ranking
#27 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| North Dakota | $96,160 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Minnesota | $101,440 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| South Dakota | $95,110 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 6-24 months |
| Montana | $80,390 | No educational requirements | No exam required | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| North Dakota | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Minnesota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| South Dakota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Montana | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be 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
ND State Board of Registration for Professional Engineers & Land Surveyors
PO Box 1357, Bismarck, ND, 58502-1357
Phone: 7012580786
Related Careers in North Dakota
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $77,640 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Certified Public Accountant | $72,180 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $98,990 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
| Funeral Director | $76,720 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Civil Engineer in North Dakota?
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 North Dakota?
North Dakota lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Civil Engineers.
What education do you need to become a Civil Engineer in North Dakota?
The board typically expects Degree required for Civil Engineer licensure in North Dakota.
What is the typical Civil Engineer salary in North Dakota?
The median annual salary for Civil Engineers in North Dakota is 96,160. Salaries range from 62450 (10th percentile) to 139880 (90th percentile).
How does the Civil Engineer salary in North Dakota compare to the national average?
Civil Engineers in North Dakota earn 3% below the national median of 99590, with a state median of 96,160.
How many Civil Engineers work in North Dakota?
North Dakota employs approximately 1470 Civil Engineers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Civil Engineer license to North Dakota 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 North Dakota?
The licensing agency is ND State Board of Registration for Professional Engineers & Land Surveyors. Review agency details at http://www.ndpelsboard.org/.