Application Fee
See agencyVerified by ND Board of Science
Geologist Licensing in North Dakota
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for geologist in North Dakota, including See agency and board contact links.
Last verified: Feb 21, 2026
Current
Exam Requirement
Third-party exam requiredRenewal Cycle
See board renewal rulesLicensing Blueprint for Geologist in North Dakota
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Degree required.
- 2
Experience: Work experience required.
- 3
Background/Criminal Review: Background check required.
- 4
Physical Requirement: No physical requirements.
- 5
License Type: Stand-alone license.
- 6
For more information about the licensing process, including application and renewal fees, please check with the licensing authority.
Exam and processing details
- Third-party exam required
Continuing education and program notes
- Continuing education required to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
ND Board of Counselor Examiners
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$90,770 median (9% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#21 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (7)
- 1. Meet North Dakota 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: Third-party exam required.
- 5. Prepare supporting documentation (background check: Background check required; Background/Criminal Review: Background check required.; For more information about the licensing process, including application and renewal fees, please check with the licensing authority.).
- 6. Submit the application to ND Board of Counselor Examiners and monitor board communications.
- 7. Maintain post-licensure compliance (continuing education: Continuing education required to maintain license).
Salary Insights in North Dakota
With a median salary of $90,770, Geologists in North Dakota earn 9% below the national median of $99,240. North Dakota ranks #21 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.8%Average Weekly Wage
$1,258Median annual salary
$90,770Hourly estimate
$43.649% below national median
Difference: -$8,470
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationGeologist Salary Ranking
#21 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| North Dakota | $90,770 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Minnesota | $72,490 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| South Dakota | $72,280 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| Montana | $84,630 | 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| North Dakota | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Minnesota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| South Dakota | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| Montana | 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
ND Board of Counselor Examiners
2112 10th Ave SE, Mandan, ND, 58554
Phone: 7016675969
Related Careers in North Dakota
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biological Technicians | $48,550 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Chemical Technicians | $53,270 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Environmental Science and Protection Technicians, Including Health | $55,310 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Environmental Scientist | $81,260 | Degree required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Geologist in North Dakota?
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 Geologists in North Dakota?
North Dakota lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Geologists.
What education do you need to become a Geologist in North Dakota?
The board typically expects Degree required for Geologist licensure in North Dakota.
What is the typical Geologist salary in North Dakota?
The median annual salary for Geologists in North Dakota is $90,770. Salaries range from $65,800 (10th percentile) to $142,810 (90th percentile).
How does the Geologist salary in North Dakota compare to the national average?
Geologists in North Dakota earn 9% below the national median of $99,240, with a state median of $90,770.
Can I transfer my Geologist license to North Dakota 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 Geologists in North Dakota?
The licensing agency is ND Board of Counselor Examiners. Review agency details at http://www.ndbce.org/.
How often do you renew a Geologist license in North Dakota?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.