A Professional Geologist is a scientist uniquely qualified to perform a set of geological investigations based upon their formal education, training and experience.
Professional licensure is a requirement in Idaho and most other states and provinces, for any ‘position wherein a person, having independent control, direction, or supervision of a geological project, investigates and interprets geologic features‘. Examples of these positions are in environmental consulting, the minerals and energy sectors, and governmental agencies. The Association of State Boards of Geology (ASBOG) and American Institute of Professional Geologists (AIPG) provide excellent information on the nature of professional geology and the licensure process for candidates.
The first step in licensure is the Fundamentals of Geology written examination, which is developed and maintained by ASBOG. Study materials for the Fundamentals of Geology exam are also compiled by ASBOG.
The Board of Professional Geologists of the State of Idaho’s Division of Occupational and Professional Licenses oversees the Fundamentals of Geology examination. Visit their website for contact information and instructions on the steps in professional licensure in Idaho. In Idaho, ‘To be eligible to take the Fundamentals of Geology examination, an Applicant must have completed thirty (30) semester units or equivalent quarter units in courses in geological science leading to a degree in the geological sciences of which at least twenty-four (24) units are in third or fourth year, and/or graduate courses. Applicants who can satisfy to the Board that they will have completed the required coursework and number of units and will be graduating at the end of the spring, summer or fall terms of any given year, may be eligible for examination immediately preceding the date of graduation.‘
The historical State of Idaho application form for sitting for the FG exam includes a set of professional references forms with the following instructions: ‘List the names of (3) three responsible professional geologists who are familiar with your work in geology. (It is suggested that one of the references be an immediate supervisor, associate or department head.) Applicants for the Fundamentals of Geology examination may fulfill this requirement with reference statements from geologists in Responsible Positions familiar with the ability and character of the Applicant as demonstrated in an academic setting.‘ University faculty with significant knowledge of your academic training in geology can provide this reference.