Application Fee
See agencyVerified by TX Board of Science
Geologist Licensing in Texas
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for geologist in Texas, 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 Geologist in Texas
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.
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
Texas Board of Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$155,330 median (57% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#1 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (7)
- 1. Meet Texas 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: Both state and third-party exams required.
- 5. Prepare supporting documentation (background check: Background check required; Background/Criminal Review: Background check required.).
- 6. Submit the application to Texas Board of Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors and monitor board communications.
- 7. Maintain post-licensure compliance (continuing education: Continuing education required to maintain license).
Salary Insights in Texas
With a median salary of $155,330, Geologists in Texas earn 57% above the national median of $99,240. Texas ranks #1 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
SteadyQoQ Employment Change
+0.8%Average Weekly Wage
$1,420Median annual salary
$155,330Hourly estimate
$74.6857% above national median
Difference: +$56,090
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationGeologist Salary Ranking
#1 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Texas | $155,330 | Degree required | Both state and third-party exams required | Varies by board |
| Oklahoma | $128,240 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Arkansas | $65,250 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Louisiana | $72,340 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| New Mexico | $93,720 | No educational requirements | No 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Texas | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Oklahoma | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Arkansas | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Louisiana | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| New Mexico | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be 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
Texas Board of Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors
1917 S. Interstate 35, Austin, TX, 78741
Phone: 5124407723
Related Careers in Texas
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biological Technicians | $48,830 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Chemical Technicians | $64,520 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Environmental Science and Protection Technicians, Including Health | $49,620 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Environmental Scientist | $78,560 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Geologist in Texas?
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 Texas?
Texas lists Both state and third-party exams required as part of the licensure process for Geologists.
What education do you need to become a Geologist in Texas?
The board typically expects Degree required for Geologist licensure in Texas.
What is the typical Geologist salary in Texas?
The median annual salary for Geologists in Texas is $155,330.
How does the Geologist salary in Texas compare to the national average?
Geologists in Texas earn 57% above the national median of $99,240, with a state median of $155,330.
How many Geologists work in Texas?
Texas employs approximately 3,620 Geologists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Geologist license to Texas 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 Texas?
The licensing agency is Texas Board of Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors. Review agency details at https://pels.texas.gov/.
How often do you renew a Geologist license in Texas?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.