Application Fee
See board websiteVerified by TN Board of Business
Civil Engineer Licensing in Tennessee
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for civil engineer in Tennessee, 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 Tennessee
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Preliminary/temporary license
- Education: Degree required
- Examination: Third-party exam required
- Application Fee: See board website
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Commerce and Insurance • Division of Regulatory Boards • Division of Regulatory Boards
- Current Filing Fee
See board website
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$97,730 median (2% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#24 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet Tennessee 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 Department of Commerce and Insurance~Division of Regulatory Boards~Division of Regulatory Boards.
Salary Insights in Tennessee
With a median salary of 97,730, Civil Engineers in Tennessee earn 2% below the national median of 99590. Tennessee ranks #24 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
Median annual salary
$97,730Hourly estimate
$46.992% below national median
Difference: -$1,860
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCivil Engineer Salary Ranking
#24 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tennessee | $97,730 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Kentucky | $100,200 | No educational requirements | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Virginia | $96,210 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| North Carolina | $93,590 | Varies by state board | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Georgia | $81,030 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Alabama | $98,100 | Degree required | State exam required | 6-24 months |
| Mississippi | $103,940 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 6-24 months |
| Arkansas | $81,930 | Degree required | No exam required | 6-24 months |
| Missouri | $93,020 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tennessee | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Kentucky | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Virginia | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| North Carolina | 68 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Georgia | 25 | Low | Limited or restricted active licensing status. State-specific exam conditions may apply. |
| Alabama | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board.
Official Licensing Agency
Department of Commerce and Insurance • Division of Regulatory Boards • Division of Regulatory Boards
Davy Crockett Tower 3d Floor, 500 James Robertson Pkwy, Nashville, TN, 37243-1142
Phone: 6157413221
Agency website was unavailable in source data, using official search fallback.
Related Careers in Tennessee
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $85,490 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Certified Public Accountant | $75,500 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $89,390 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
| Funeral Director | $44,670 | Specific course required | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Civil Engineer in Tennessee?
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 Tennessee?
Tennessee 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 Tennessee?
The board typically expects Degree required for Civil Engineer licensure in Tennessee.
What is the typical Civil Engineer salary in Tennessee?
The median annual salary for Civil Engineers in Tennessee is 97,730. Salaries range from 67410 (10th percentile) to 141710 (90th percentile).
How does the Civil Engineer salary in Tennessee compare to the national average?
Civil Engineers in Tennessee earn 2% below the national median of 99590, with a state median of 97,730.
How many Civil Engineers work in Tennessee?
Tennessee employs approximately 4660 Civil Engineers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Civil Engineer license to Tennessee 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 Tennessee?
The licensing agency is Department of Commerce and Insurance / Division of Regulatory Boards / Division of Regulatory Boards.