Application Fee
See agencyVerified by VA Board of Science
Geologist Licensing in Virginia
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for geologist in Virginia, 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 Virginia
Estimated timeline: Varies by boardCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Specific course required.
- 2
Experience: Work experience required.
- 3
Physical Requirement: No physical requirements.
- 4
License Type: Stand-alone license.
Exam and processing details
- Third-party exam required
Continuing education and program notes
- No continuing education requirement to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation • Board for Professional Soil Scientists, Wetland Professionals, and Geologists
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$94,160 median (5% below national)
- State Salary Rank
#19 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (6)
- 1. Meet Virginia eligibility requirements for Geologist licensure.
- 2. Complete required education or training: Specific course required.
- 3. Document required supervised experience: Work experience required.
- 4. Pass required examination steps: Third-party exam required.
- 5. Submit the application to Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation~Board for Professional Soil Scientists, Wetland Professionals, and Geologists and monitor board communications.
- 6. Maintain post-licensure compliance (continuing education: No continuing education requirement to maintain license).
Salary Insights in Virginia
With a median salary of $94,160, Geologists in Virginia earn 5% below the national median of $99,240. Virginia ranks #19 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is Varies by board.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+1.6%Average Weekly Wage
$1,471Median annual salary
$94,160Hourly estimate
$45.275% below national median
Difference: -$5,080
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationGeologist Salary Ranking
#19 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Virginia | $94,160 | Specific course required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Maryland | $99,200 | Varies by state board | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| West Virginia | $95,640 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | 1 month |
| Kentucky | $68,990 | Degree required | Third-party exam required | Varies by board |
| Tennessee | $76,610 | Degree required | State-approved exam | Varies by board |
| North Carolina | $79,710 | Degree required | Third-party 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Virginia | 60 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Maryland | 78 | High | Board-specific review required. |
| West Virginia | 56 | Medium | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Kentucky | 54 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required. |
| Tennessee | 66 | Medium | Documented experience may be required. Continuing education compliance is required. |
| North Carolina | 50 | Low | State-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be 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
Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation • Board for Professional Soil Scientists, Wetland Professionals, and Geologists
9960 Mayland Drive, Suite 400, Richmond, VA, 23233-1485
Phone: 8043678514
Related Careers in Virginia
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biological Technicians | $49,250 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Chemical Technicians | $50,660 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
| Environmental Science and Protection Technicians, Including Health | $49,130 | No educational requirements | Varies by board |
| Environmental Scientist | $78,140 | Specific course required | Varies by board |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Geologist in Virginia?
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 Virginia?
Virginia lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Geologists.
What education do you need to become a Geologist in Virginia?
The board typically expects Specific course required for Geologist licensure in Virginia.
What is the typical Geologist salary in Virginia?
The median annual salary for Geologists in Virginia is $94,160. Salaries range from $51,860 (10th percentile) to $166,470 (90th percentile).
How does the Geologist salary in Virginia compare to the national average?
Geologists in Virginia earn 5% below the national median of $99,240, with a state median of $94,160.
How many Geologists work in Virginia?
Virginia employs approximately 310 Geologists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Geologist license to Virginia 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 Virginia?
The licensing agency is Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation / Board for Professional Soil Scientists, Wetland Professionals, and Geologists. Review agency details at https://www.dpor.virginia.gov/Boards/SSWPG/.
How often do you renew a Geologist license in Virginia?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.