Application Fee
See agencyVerified by NV Board of Science
Geologist Licensing in Nevada
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for geologist in Nevada, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 21, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
State exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Geologist in Nevada
Estimated timeline: 2-21 yearsCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Degree required.
- 2
Experience: Work experience required.
- 3
Background/Criminal Review: No criminal record prohibitions.
- 4
License Type: Stand-alone license.
- 5
2) Have a bachelor's degree in engineering from an accredited engineering program.
- 6
3) Pass the Fundamentals of Engineering (EI) exam*.
- 7
4) Have 4 years of approved active engineering work experience
- 2 years of the required work experience must be under the direct supervision of an engineer licensed in the discipline of engineering in which the applicant is applying.
- 8
5) Pass the Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exam*.
- 9
*National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) exams
- both are 8-hour, written examinations.
- 10
1) Be a graduate of or in the final year of an engineering curriculum of 4 years or more that has been approved by the Board and have passed the EI exam, OR.
Exam and processing details
- National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) exams
- both are 8-hour, written examinations
Continuing education and program notes
- certification as an engineer intern, applicants must:
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Board of Professional Engineers & Land Surveyors
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$95,090 median (4% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#18 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (7)
- 1. Meet Nevada eligibility requirements for Geologist licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Degree required.
- 3. Document required supervised experience: Work experience required.
- 4. Pass required examination steps: State exam required National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) exams; both are 8-hour, written examinations.
- 5. Prepare supporting documentation (background check: No criminal record prohibitions; Background/Criminal Review: No criminal record prohibitions.).
- 6. Submit the application to Board of Professional Engineers & Land Surveyors and monitor board communications.
- 7. Maintain post-licensure compliance (continuing education: No continuing education requirement to maintain license).
Salary Insights in Nevada
With a median salary of $95,090, Geologists in Nevada earn 4% below the national median of $99,240. Nevada ranks #18 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 2-21 years.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+1.2%Average Weekly Wage
$1,294Median annual salary
$95,090Hourly estimate
$45.724% below national median
Difference: -$4,150
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationGeologist Salary Ranking
#18 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nevada | $95,090 | Degree required | State exam required | 2-21 years |
| Oregon | $95,120 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Idaho | $89,860 | No educational requirements | State exam required | Varies by board |
| Utah | $104,000 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Arizona | $83,630 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| California | $111,400 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | 1-3 years |
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nevada | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Oregon | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Idaho | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Utah | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Arizona | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| California | 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
Board of Professional Engineers & Land Surveyors
1755 E. Plumb Lane, Suite 135, Reno, 89502
Phone: 7756881231
Related Careers in Nevada
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biological Technicians | $48,650 | Degree required | 1-3 years |
| Chemical Technicians | $50,250 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Environmental Science and Protection Technicians, Including Health | $63,300 | Degree required | 2-3 years |
| Environmental Scientist | $80,480 | Degree required | 2-3 years |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Geologist in Nevada?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 2-21 years, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Geologists in Nevada?
Nevada lists State exam required as part of the licensure process for Geologists.
What education do you need to become a Geologist in Nevada?
The board typically expects Degree required for Geologist licensure in Nevada.
What is the typical Geologist salary in Nevada?
The median annual salary for Geologists in Nevada is $95,090. Salaries range from $59,700 (10th percentile) to $144,010 (90th percentile).
How does the Geologist salary in Nevada compare to the national average?
Geologists in Nevada earn 4% below the national median of $99,240, with a state median of $95,090.
How many Geologists work in Nevada?
Nevada employs approximately 510 Geologists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Geologist license to Nevada 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 Geologists in Nevada?
The licensing agency is Board of Professional Engineers & Land Surveyors. Review agency details at http://www.nvboe.org/.
How often do you renew a Geologist license in Nevada?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.