Application Fee
See agencyVerified by WA Board of Science
Geologist Licensing in Washington
Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for geologist in Washington, 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 Washington
Estimated timeline: 5 yearsCore Requirements
- 1
Education: Degree required.
- 2
Experience: No experience required.
- 3
Background/Criminal Review: No criminal record prohibitions.
- 4
License Type: Stand-alone license.
- 5
Individuals must graduate from an accredited college or university with a degree in geological sciencess and have at least 5 years of documented and verifiable professional geological practice (or specialty practice if applying for a specialty), must be of good moral and ethical character (as assested to by 2 references) and pass the National Association of State Boards of Geology examination.
Exam and processing details
- National Association of State Boards of Geology examination
Continuing education and program notes
- No continuing education requirement to maintain license
Application Snapshot
- Licensing Authority
Department of Licensing
- Current Filing Fee
See agency
- Renewal Cycle
See board renewal rules
- Salary Position
$99,780 median (1% above national)
- State Salary Rank
#11 of 50 states
Step-by-Step Process (7)
- 1. Confirm eligibility prerequisites (Individuals must graduate from an accredited college or university with a degree in geological sciencess and have at least 5 years of doc...).
- 2. Complete required education or training: Degree required.
- 3. Document required supervised experience: No experience required.
- 4. Pass required examination steps: Third-party exam required National Association of State Boards of Geology examination.
- 5. Prepare supporting documentation (background check: No criminal record prohibitions; Background/Criminal Review: No criminal record prohibitions.).
- 6. Submit the application to Department of Licensing and monitor board communications.
- 7. Maintain post-licensure compliance (continuing education: No continuing education requirement to maintain license).
Salary Insights in Washington
With a median salary of $99,780, Geologists in Washington earn 1% above the national median of $99,240. Washington ranks #11 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 5 years.
State Hiring Climate (QCEW)
RisingQoQ Employment Change
+2.3%Average Weekly Wage
$1,837Median annual salary
$99,780Hourly estimate
$47.971% above national median
Difference: +$540
Percentile Distribution
Annual compensationGeologist Salary Ranking
#11 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 regionLicense 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Washington | 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. |
| Oregon | 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
Department of Licensing
2000 4th Ave W, Olympia, WA, 98502
Phone: 3606646488
Related Careers in Washington
| Profession | Median Salary | Education | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biological Technicians | $52,680 | Degree required | Varies by board |
| Chemical Technicians | $55,940 | No educational requirements | 8 years |
| Environmental Science and Protection Technicians, Including Health | $78,270 | Specific course required | 1 month |
| Environmental Scientist | $88,670 | No educational requirements | 8 years |
FAQ
How long does it take to become a Geologist in Washington?
Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 5 years, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.
What exams are required for Geologists in Washington?
Washington lists Third-party exam required as part of the licensure process for Geologists.
What education do you need to become a Geologist in Washington?
The board typically expects Degree required for Geologist licensure in Washington.
What is the typical Geologist salary in Washington?
The median annual salary for Geologists in Washington is $99,780. Salaries range from $65,820 (10th percentile) to $170,000 (90th percentile).
How does the Geologist salary in Washington compare to the national average?
Geologists in Washington earn 1% above the national median of $99,240, with a state median of $99,780.
How many Geologists work in Washington?
Washington employs approximately 840 Geologists according to BLS data.
Can I transfer my Geologist license to Washington 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 Washington?
The licensing agency is Department of Licensing. Review agency details at https://dol.wa.gov/about/contact-us/business-and-professional-licensing-contact-information.
How often do you renew a Geologist license in Washington?
Current guidance indicates a renewal cycle of See board renewal rules.