Application Fee
See agencyVerified by MT Board of Science
Geologist Licensing in Montana
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for geologist 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 Geologist in Montana
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Athletics Program
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$84,630 median (15% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#26 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (4)
- 1. Meet Montana eligibility requirements for Geologist licensure.
- 2. Complete approved education or training requirements.
- 3. Pass required state examinations.
- 4. Submit the application to Athletics Program and monitor board communications.
Salary Insights in Montana
With a median salary of $84,630, Geologists in Montana earn 15% below the national median of $99,240. Montana ranks #26 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
$84,630Hourly estimate
$40.6915% below national median
Difference: -$14,610
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationGeologist Salary Ranking
#26 of 50 statesfor Geologist median salary
| Rank | State | Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| #1 | Texas | $155,330 |
| #2 | Rhode Island | $128,870 |
| #3 | Oklahoma | $128,240 |
| #4 | Mississippi | $113,730 |
| #5 | California | $111,400 |
Nearby States Comparison
Geologist licensing across the region| State | Median Salary | Education | Exam | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Montana | $84,630 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| North Dakota | $90,770 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| South Dakota | $72,280 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Wyoming | $72,590 | No educational requirements | Third-party exam required | 5 years |
| Idaho | $89,860 | 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 | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| North Dakota | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| South Dakota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Wyoming | 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. |
- License status indicator: Active.
- Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.
Official Licensing Agency
Official website verified
Athletics Program
301 South Park, 4th Floor, Helena, MT, 59620
Phone: N/A
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 Geologist 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 Geologist salary in Montana?
The median annual salary for Geologists in Montana is $84,630. Salaries range from $55,920 (10th percentile) to $125,210 (90th percentile).
How does the Geologist salary in Montana compare to the national average?
Geologists in Montana earn 15% below the national median of $99,240, with a state median of $84,630.
How many Geologists work in Montana?
Montana employs approximately 180 Geologists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Geologist 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 Geologists in Montana?
The licensing agency is Athletics Program. Review agency details at http://boards.bsd.dli.mt.gov/ath.
How often do you renew a Geologist license in Montana?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.