Examinations: Geologists
National Association of State Boards of Geology (ASBOG) Exam
ASBOG is converting two exams to computer-based testing (CBT). The exams changing are:
- Fundamentals of Geology (FG)
- Practice of Geology (PG)
ASBOG offers these exams twice per year, on dates they choose. For more information on CBT and candidate resources, please see the ASBOG website
Specialty exams
We administer the specialty exams for Engineering Geology (EG) and Hydrogeology (HG). We offer the exams twice per year, on the same dates as the ASBOG exam. You must be a geologist licensed in Washington to take the specialty exam
Before you apply
Before you can take the exam, make sure you meet the minimum requirements.
To take the exam, you must complete the following:
- Geologist-in-Training Certification Application
- Geologist-in-Training to Geologist License Application
- Geologist License Application
- Geologist Specialty License Application (Engineering and/or Hydrogeologist)
ASBOG exam schedule
| Exam date and location | Due date for application and fees |
|---|---|
| October 6, 2023 Computer-based testing |
July 15, 2023 |
Note: ASBOG no longer proctors exams at a physical location. They now offer the exam as computer-based training at partner locations.
Specialty exam schedule
| Exam date and location | Due date for application and fees |
|---|---|
| March 17, 2023 Hydrogeology 1 p.m.–5 p.m. Department of Licensing 405 Black Lake Blvd Olympia, WA Map and directions |
December 31, 2022 |
Exam fees
You'll need to pay 2 different fees:
- The cost to apply for the ASBOG exams is $135 (check or money order payable to the Department of Licensing). This fee includes your application, license, and certificate.
- After you receive our approval letter to take the exam, you'll need to pay the exam fee to ASBOG.
- If you don't pay the ASBOG fee by their deadline, you won't be able to take the exam.
Due dates
- Applications and fees must be postmarked before or on the application due date.
- All supplemental material must be received on the same due date as application and fees (see above) This includes:
- Transcripts.
- Employment and experience verification forms.
- Personal references.
- Lists of projects
License and exam information
- Geologist License Application
- Geologist Specialty License Application (Engineering and/or Hydrogeologist)
- Engineering Geologist Examination Content
- Engineering Geologist Examination Reference Study Guide
- Hydrogeologist Examination Content
- Hydrogeologist Examination Reference Study Guide
For veterans, military personnel, and partners
Your military experience or training might help you meet licensing requirements. You may also be able to get a temporary license if you're moving here with a current license from another state. For more information visit military assistance.
If you're a U.S. veteran, you may be eligible for partial reimbursement of your fees. For more information, visit Get paid back for test fees.
Related information
- Guidelines for becoming a licensed geologist in Washington State
- List of allowable calculators and devices
Questions? Need help?
- Email us: geologist@dol.wa.gov
- Call us: 360.664.1497
