Application Fee
See agencyVerified by KY Board of Science
Environmental Scientist Licensing in Kentucky
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for environmental scientist in Kentucky, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 21, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State-approved examRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Environmental Scientist in Kentucky
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Division of Compliance Assistance • Energy and Environment Cabinet
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$68,990 median (14% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#38 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet Kentucky eligibility requirements for Environmental Scientist licensure.
- 2. Complete approved education or training requirements.
- 3. Pass required state examinations.
- 4. Submit the application to Division of Compliance Assistance~Energy and Environment Cabinet and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in Kentucky
With a median salary of $68,990, Environmental Scientists in Kentucky earn 14% below the national median of $80,060. Kentucky ranks #38 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1.3%Average Weekly Wage
$1,180Median annual salary
$68,990Hourly estimate
$33.1714% below national median
Difference: -$11,070
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationEnvironmental Scientist Salary Ranking
#38 of 50 statesfor Environmental Scientist median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | California | $97,520 |
| #2 | Massachusetts | $96,330 |
| #3 | Oregon | $93,560 |
| #4 | Rhode Island | $90,460 |
| #5 | Illinois | $89,010 |
Nearby States Comparison
Environmental Scientist licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kentucky | $68,990 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Indiana | $77,380 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Ohio | $80,640 | Degree required | State exam required | Varies by board |
| West Virginia | $77,980 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 2 years |
| Virginia | $78,140 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Tennessee | $76,900 | Degree required | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Missouri | $67,190 | Degree required | No exam required | Varies by board |
| Illinois | $89,010 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kentucky | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Indiana | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Ohio | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| West Virginia | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Virginia | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Tennessee | 66 | Medium | Documented experience may be required. Continuing education compliance is required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
Division of Compliance Assistance • Energy and Environment Cabinet
300 Sower Blvd., 3rd Floor, Frankfort, KY, 40601
Phone: 5025643350
Related Careers in Kentucky
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biological Technicians | $42,890 | Degree required | 1 month |
| Chemical Technicians | $55,010 | Degree required | 1 month |
| Environmental Science and Protection Technicians, Including Health | $38,940 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Forester | $54,580 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Environmental Scientist in Kentucky?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about Varies by board, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What is the typical Environmental Scientist salary in Kentucky?
The median annual salary for Environmental Scientists in Kentucky is $68,990. Salaries range from $44,990 (10th percentile) to $99,990 (90th percentile).
How does the Environmental Scientist salary in Kentucky compare to the national average?
Environmental Scientists in Kentucky earn 14% below the national median of $80,060, with a state median of $68,990.
How many Environmental Scientists work in Kentucky?
Kentucky employs approximately 1,010 Environmental Scientists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Environmental Scientist license to Kentucky from another state?
Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Environmental Scientists in Kentucky?
The licensing agency is Division of Compliance Assistance / Energy and Environment Cabinet. Review agency details at https://eec.ky.gov/Environmental-Protection/Compliance-Assistance/Pages/default.aspx.
How often do you renew a Environmental Scientist license in Kentucky?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.