Application Fee
See agencyVerified by IA Board of Science
Forester Licensing in Iowa
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for forester in Iowa, 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 Forester in Iowa
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Degree required.
- 2
Experience: Work experience required.
- 3
Certification: Certification required.
- 4
License Type: Register with licensing agency.
Exam and processing details
- Both state and third-party exams required
Continuing education and program notes
- Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Iowa Supreme Court Office of Professional Regulation
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$80,590 median (14% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#3 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (6)
- 1. Meet Iowa eligibility requirements for Forester licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Degree required.
- 3. Document required supervised experience: Work experience required.
- 4. Pass required examination steps: Both state and third-party exams required.
- 5. Submit the application to Iowa Supreme Court Office of Professional Regulation and monitor board communications.
- 6. Maintain post-licensure compliance (continuing education: Continuing education required to maintain license).
Salary Insights in Iowa
With a median salary of $80,590, Foresters in Iowa earn 14% above the national median of $70,660. Iowa ranks #3 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.4%Average Weekly Wage
$1,154Median annual salary
$80,590Hourly estimate
$38.7514% above national median
Difference: +$9,930
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationForester Salary Ranking
#3 of 50 statesfor Forester median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | California | $98,870 |
| #2 | Alaska | $85,550 |
| #3 | Iowa | $80,590 |
| #4 | Maryland | $79,890 |
| #5 | Louisiana | $79,580 |
Nearby States Comparison
Forester licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Iowa | $80,590 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | Varies by board |
| Minnesota | $72,280 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Wisconsin | $65,960 | Specific course required | No exam required | Varies by board |
| Illinois | $75,160 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Missouri | $62,980 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Nebraska | $70,660 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| South Dakota | $63,510 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Iowa | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Minnesota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Wisconsin | 62 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Illinois | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Missouri | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Nebraska | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Continuing education indicator: Continuing education required to maintain license.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
Iowa Supreme Court Office of Professional Regulation
Iowa Judicial Building, 1111 East Court Avenue, Des Moines, IA, 50319
Phone: 5153484670
Related Careers in Iowa
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biological Technicians | $51,300 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Chemical Technicians | $52,200 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Environmental Science and Protection Technicians, Including Health | $58,730 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Environmental Scientist | $74,060 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Forester in Iowa?
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 exams are required for Foresters in Iowa?
Iowa lists Both state and third-party exams required as part of the licensure process for Foresters.
What education do you need to become a Forester in Iowa?
The board typically expects Degree required for Forester licensure in Iowa.
What is the typical Forester salary in Iowa?
The median annual salary for Foresters in Iowa is $80,590. Salaries range from $58,070 (10th percentile) to $92,030 (90th percentile).
How does the Forester salary in Iowa compare to the national average?
Foresters in Iowa earn 14% above the national median of $70,660, with a state median of $80,590.
How many Foresters work in Iowa?
Iowa employs approximately 50 Foresters according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Forester license to Iowa 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. Verify directly with the agency.
Who is the licensing agency for Foresters in Iowa?
The licensing agency is Iowa Supreme Court Office of Professional Regulation. Review agency details at https://www.iowacourts.gov/opr/attorneys/admissions.
How often do you renew a Forester license in Iowa?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.