How to Get a License

Professional Geologist

A geologist is an expert in the field of geology, a science that studies rocks, layers of soil, land, and processes of land formation, to learn about the history of the Earth and its life. The practice of geology in this state is declared to be a subject of regulation to be practiced and regulated as such, and practitioners in this state shall be held accountable to the state and members of the public by high professional standards.
 

Requirements for Initial License by Exam

Education Requirements

1. Be a graduate of an accredited college or university.

2. Successfully complete a minimum of thirty (30) semester or forty-five (45) quarter-hours of coursework in geology, geophysics, geochemistry, engineering geology, or their subdivisions in accordance with TCA §62-36-109(a)(2).

3. Complete at least five (5) years of geological education and professional experience in accordance with TCA §62-36-109(a)(2).

Examination Requirements

Successfully pass both the Fundamentals of Geology (FG) and Practice of Geology (PG) examinations with testing vendor Prometric to assess the knowledge and skills that are common to the competent practice of geology as a profession.

Application & Fees

Complete the “Geologist Application to Test” application online at core.tn.gov. The fee for this transaction is $115.

Candidates who meet the requirements for both the Fundamentals of Geology (FG) and the Practice of Geology (PG) exams can choose to apply for both at one time. Applicants applying for both at one time will only be required to pay one fee of $115.

Candidates who previously applied for and passed the Fundamentals of Geology (FG) exam must next apply for the Practice of Geology (PG) by submitting the “Additional Exam Testing” transaction located under the “My License and Permit“ section on core.tn.gov.

Candidates who fail one or both exams will automatically be added to the eligible list for the next exam session with the test vendor. The Program does not charge additional fees for requests to retake failed exams.

After passing both exams, candidates must apply for their license by submitting the “Application for License” located under the “My License and Permit“ section on core.tn.gov. 
 

Reciprocal Information

Applicants who hold a like, unexpired license as a professional geologist by another state, territory, or possession of the United States, the District of Columbia, or any foreign country, if such jurisdiction’s requirements for licensure are at least equivalent to the requirements for licensure in Tennessee, may apply by reciprocity.

Complete the “Professional Geologist Reciprocal Application” online at core.tn.gov. The fee for this application is $115.

Applicants must provide proof of an active license at the time of application.