Application Fee
See agencyVerified by MT Board of Science
Forester Licensing in Montana
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for forester in Montana, 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 Forester in Montana
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Background/Criminal Review: No criminal record prohibitions.
- 2
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Board of Clinical Laboratory Science Practitioners
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$64,200 median (9% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#38 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (5)
- 1. Meet Montana eligibility requirements for Forester licensure.
- 2. Complete approved education or training requirements.
- 3. Pass required state examinations.
- 4. Prepare supporting documentation (background check: No criminal record prohibitions; Background/Criminal Review: No criminal record prohibitions.).
- 5. Submit the application to Board of Clinical Laboratory Science Practitioners and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in Montana
With a median salary of $64,200, Foresters in Montana earn 9% below the national median of $70,660. Montana ranks #38 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+3.6%Average Weekly Wage
$1,173Median annual salary
$64,200Hourly estimate
$30.879% below national median
Difference: -$6,460
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationForester Salary Ranking
#38 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Montana | $64,200 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| North Dakota | $70,660 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| South Dakota | $63,510 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Wyoming | $69,260 | Varies by state board | Third-party exam required | 1-3 months |
| Idaho | $62,050 | No educational requirements | State exam required | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Montana | 72 | Medium | Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| North Dakota | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| South Dakota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Wyoming | 62 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Background check or criminal history review is indicated. |
| Idaho | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
Board of Clinical Laboratory Science Practitioners
301 South Park, 4th Floor, PO Box 200513, Helena, MT, 59620-0513
Phone: 4068412395
Related Careers in Montana
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biological Technicians | $47,090 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Chemical Technicians | $50,160 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Environmental Science and Protection Technicians, Including Health | $50,220 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
| Environmental Scientist | $78,510 | Varies by state board | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Forester in Montana?
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 Forester salary in Montana?
The median annual salary for Foresters in Montana is $64,200. Salaries range from $48,600 (10th percentile) to $84,970 (90th percentile).
How does the Forester salary in Montana compare to the national average?
Foresters in Montana earn 9% below the national median of $70,660, with a state median of $64,200.
How many Foresters work in Montana?
Montana employs approximately 260 Foresters according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Forester license to Montana 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 Foresters in Montana?
The licensing agency is Board of Clinical Laboratory Science Practitioners. Review agency details at http://boards.bsd.dli.mt.gov/cls.
How often do you renew a Forester license in Montana?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.