Application Fee
See agencyVerified by WA Board of Science
Environmental Scientist Licensing in Washington
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for environmental scientist in Washington, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 21, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
Both state and third-party exams requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Environmental Scientist in Washington
Estimated timeline: 8 yearsCore Requirements
- 1
Education: No educational requirements.
- 2
Experience: Work experience required.
- 3
Background/Criminal Review: No criminal record prohibitions.
- 4
License Type: Stand-alone license.
- 5
Individuals must pass the engineer-in-training examination, pass the principles and practices of engineering examination for the environmental branch, have 8 years of professional-level experience under the direct supervision of a licensed engineer, send in a completed application and pay the required fee.
Exam and processing details
- pass the engineer-in-training examination, pass the principles and practices of engineering examination for the environmental branch, have 8 years of professional-level experience under the direct supervision of a licensed engineer, send in a completed application and pay the required fee
Continuing education and program notes
- No continuing education requirement to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Licensing
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$88,670 median (11% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#6 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (7)
- 1. Meet Washington eligibility requirements for Environmental Scientist licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: No educational requirements.
- 3. Document required supervised experience: Work experience required.
- 4. Pass required examination steps: Both state and third-party exams required pass the engineer-in-training examination, pass the principles and practices of engineering examination for the environmental branch, have 8 years of professional-level experien....
- 5. Prepare supporting documentation (background check: No criminal record prohibitions; Background/Criminal Review: No criminal record prohibitions.; Individuals must pass the engineer-in-training examination, pass the principles and practices of engineering examination for the environm...).
- 6. Submit the application to Department of Licensing and monitor board communications.
- 7. Maintain post-licensure compliance (continuing education: No continuing education requirement to maintain license).
Salary Insights in Washington
With a median salary of $88,670, Environmental Scientists in Washington earn 11% above the national median of $80,060. Washington ranks #6 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 8 years.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.3%Average Weekly Wage
$1,837Median annual salary
$88,670Hourly estimate
$42.6311% above national median
Difference: +$8,610
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationEnvironmental Scientist Salary Ranking
#6 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 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. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
Department of Licensing
2000 4th Ave W, Olympia, WA, 98502
Phone: 3606646488
Related Careers in Washington
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biological Technicians | $52,680 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Chemical Technicians | $55,940 | No educational requirements | 8 years |
| Environmental Science and Protection Technicians, Including Health | $78,270 | Specific course required | 1 month |
| Forester | $74,360 | Degree required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Environmental Scientist in Washington?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 8 years, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Environmental Scientists in Washington?
Washington lists Both state and third-party exams required as part of the licensure process for Environmental Scientists.
What education do you need to become a Environmental Scientist in Washington?
The board typically expects No educational requirements for Environmental Scientist licensure in Washington.
What is the typical Environmental Scientist salary in Washington?
The median annual salary for Environmental Scientists in Washington is $88,670. Salaries range from $61,170 (10th percentile) to $134,320 (90th percentile).
How does the Environmental Scientist salary in Washington compare to the national average?
Environmental Scientists in Washington earn 11% above the national median of $80,060, with a state median of $88,670.
How many Environmental Scientists work in Washington?
Washington employs approximately 4,280 Environmental Scientists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Environmental Scientist 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. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Environmental Scientists 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.
How often do you renew a Environmental Scientist license in Washington?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.