Note: While the processes outlined below can appear complex, it's mainly because they are new. In addition to reading the information below, you should come talk to a geology faculty member about the PG process if it is of interest to you.
Professional Geologist License
The license is formally called the "Practice of Geology" (PG) license but it is commonly referred to as the professional geologist license.
Becoming a PG is a significant professional accomplishment and requires passing professional exams.
There are two overall requirements to qualify for the PG exam process:
- Approporiate educational background. Only the geology concentration provides the required educational background (see the highlights in the linked document). The general Environmental Earth and Soil Science degree does not. If you have any interest in geology as a career area you should concentrate in geology to keep this option open.
- Sufficient work experience. The requirement is approximately three years, but varies based on your supervised job duties by other licensed geologists. These supervisors write your letters of support attesting to your work experience when you apply to take the PG exam.
You can read FAQ about the various exams and licenses.
The PG Exam Sequence
- Geologist in Training (GIT) Exam.
- Typically you take this exam just before or soon after completing the educational requirements.
- Professional Geologist (PG) Exam.
- This exam is taken after sufficient documented work experience is completed.
- California Specific Exam (CSE).
- This exam can be taken with the PG exam, or after.
➤ Becoming a PG is indeed a significant professional accomplishment.
Additional/Other Professional Licenses
Certified Hydrogeologist License
After achieving the Professional Geologist license, if it is relevant to your career path you can also become a Certified Hydrogeologist (CHG).
Click to read FAQ on the Certified Hydrogeologist license.
Certified Engineering Geologist
The Certified Engineering Geologist (CEG) license is also available to those with a PG license.
Click to read FAQ on the Certified Engineering Geologist license.
Professional Geophysicist License
The Professional Geophysicist (PGp) license is much less common than the PG license and requires a different educational and work experience background.
The educational arequirements are not as explicitly spelled out as they are for the PG license, but a physics major and a geology minor will probably get you there (again, each applicant is individually assessed by the state registrar). Similar to the PG, work experience requirements also exist.
Click to read FAQ on the Professional Geophysicist license.