Application Fee
See board websiteVerified by WA Board of Business
Civil Engineer Licensing in Washington
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for civil engineer in Washington, 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 Washington
Estimated timeline: 6-24 monthsCore Requirements
- License Type: Stand-alone license
- Education: No educational requirements
- Examination: Both state and third-party exams required
- Application Fee: See board website
- Experience: Work experience required
- Background Check: No criminal record prohibitions
- Continuing Education: No continuing education requirement to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Licensing
- Current Filing Fee
See board website
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$105,090 median (6% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#4 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet Washington eligibility requirements for Civil Engineer licensure.
- 2. Complete required education: No educational requirements.
- 3. Pass the required examination: Both state and third-party exams required.
- 4. Submit your application to the Department of Licensing.
Salary Insights in Washington
With a median salary of 105,090, Civil Engineers in Washington earn 6% above the national median of 99590. Washington ranks #4 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.3%Average Weekly Wage
$1,837Median annual salary
$105,090Hourly estimate
$50.526% above national median
Difference: +$5,500
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationCivil Engineer Salary Ranking
#4 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Washington | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Idaho | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Oregon | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board.
Official Licensing Agency
Department of Licensing
2000 4th Ave W, Olympia, WA, 98502
Phone: 3606646488
Related Careers in Washington
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architect | $97,800 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Certified Public Accountant | $96,180 | Degree required | 6-24 months |
| Financial Advisor | $112,020 | Varies by state board | 6-24 months |
| Funeral Director | $60,010 | No educational requirements | 6-24 months |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Civil Engineer in Washington?
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 Washington?
Washington 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 Washington?
The board typically expects No educational requirements for Civil Engineer licensure in Washington.
What is the typical Civil Engineer salary in Washington?
The median annual salary for Civil Engineers in Washington is 105,090. Salaries range from 80650 (10th percentile) to 155010 (90th percentile).
How does the Civil Engineer salary in Washington compare to the national average?
Civil Engineers in Washington earn 6% above the national median of 99590, with a state median of 105,090.
How many Civil Engineers work in Washington?
Washington employs approximately 11900 Civil Engineers according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Civil Engineer license to Washington from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Continuing education indicator: No continuing education requirement to maintain license. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board.
Who is the licensing agency for Civil Engineers in Washington?
The licensing agency is Department of Licensing. Review agency details at https://dol.wa.gov/about/contact-us/business-and-professional-licensing-contact-information.