How to Guide: Foresters
How To Apply
If you would like to apply as a Forester, it is required that you file with the Secretary of State and renew every two years. Review the requirements and the step-by-step guide below.
- Licensure requires completing an application and pay the required fee.
- See specific instructions for application depending on license and application type.
- You must complete all the required examinations before you apply for registration with the Board.
- Renewal is required by December 31 of odd-numbered years. Late renewal period is January 1 to January 31.
Select your application type to view instructions on how to apply:
To file online:
Once your checklist is completed, Navigate to GOALS to register and login to the license portal >>
After you Apply – What to Expect
- Processing Time – Applications are generally processed within 20 business days of receipt, excluding weekends and holidays. Applications are individually evaluated by the Board in order of date received, and processing times can vary based on individual circumstances and volume.
- If you receive a deficiency letter, your 20 day count restarts when the Board receives your correct and complete documentation.
- Please Note – Incomplete applications may be withdrawn if noted deficiencies are not satisfied within 60 days of said notification. If your application is withdrawn, you will be required to restart the application process to be considered for licensure, to include submission of all required documents and fees.
- Completed applications will be initially reviewed by Board staff and may be reviewed by the Board at an upcoming Board Meeting. Applications must be complete and received at least 15 days prior to a Board Meeting to be added to that meeting’s agenda. Otherwise, the application will be reviewed at the next Board meeting.
- Check Application Status >>
- Keep Your Contact Info Up to Date
- Be sure the email address you include for yourself on your application is correct and current. Email is the primary means of communication for the Board.
- Additionally, it is important for applicants/licensees to update their email address with the Board just as they would update their physical and mailing addresses.
- Wait For It
- You may not legally perform services until you hold an active license.
Disability Accommodations
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA Public Law 101-336), the Professional Licensing Boards Division provides for reasonable accommodations by designated vendors for exam candidates with disabilities that may interfere with their performance on a Licensure Examination.
Applicants may request an accommodation under the American with Disabilities Act by submitting an application and all supporting documentation to the respective Board and/or a designated vendor as instructed on this form >>
Veteran’s Preference
Veterans, military service members, transitioning service members and military spouses of the armed forces of the United States, including the National Guard, may be eligible for exam point credits and/or expedited application processes. See program information here >>
- If you are claiming veteran’s preference points, you must enclose a copy of your DD-214 form, showing that you served during a period of conflict or war for a minimum of 90 days. Contact the VA to make a DD-214 Request >>. If you have a service-related disability, please add your Veterans Administration service disability letter.
Licensure by Exam / Evaluation
If you have never been licensed before and have completed the requirements including passing your exam, apply for licensure by examination.
If you have never been licensed before and have completed the requirements including passing your exam, apply for licensure by examination.
The following is a checklist of documents required for this application:
- Completed application with fee. Navigate to GOALS to register and login to the license portal >>
- Official College Transcripts
- Disciplinary Action/Sanctions (if applicable)
- Court Documents
- Letter of Explanation
- Enrolled in Alternative to Discipline
- Secure & Verifiable Document
- Affidavit of Citizenship
- Immigration Documents (If applicable)
Once you have passed both exams, you will apply by Registration:
- Completed application with fee. Navigate to GOALS to register and login to the license portal >>
- Employment verification form
- Official College Transcripts
- Letters of Reference (from 5 people)
- Endorsement (by Verification of Original License)
- Passed Practical Exam
- Passed Georgia Exam
Reciprocity
If you have previously held this license in another state and are wishing to apply for licensure in Georgia, apply for licensure by endorsement.
If you have previously held this license in another state and are wishing to apply for licensure in Georgia, apply for licensure by endorsement.
You must submit this application by mail.
The following is a checklist of documents required for this application:
- Completed application with fee. Navigate to GOALS to register and login to the license portal >>
- Official College Transcripts
- Verification of License (Select State)
- Disciplinary Action/Sanctions (if applicable)
- Court Documents
- Letter of Explanation
- Enrolled in Alternative to Discipline
- Secure & Verifiable Document
- Affidavit of Citizenship
- Immigration Documents (If applicable)
Reinstatement
If you have previously held this license and it has lapsed, you must submit a reinstatement application and fee.
If you have previously held this license and it has lapsed, you must submit a reinstatement application and fee.
The following is a checklist of documents required for this application:
- Completed application and fee. Navigate to GOALS to register and login to the license portal >>
- Proof of Continuing Education
- Disciplinary Action/Sanctions (if applicable)
- Court Documents
- Letter of Explanation
- Enrolled in Alternative to Discipline
- Secure & Verifiable Document
- Affidavit of Citizenship
- Immigration Documents (If applicable)
Renewal Checklist
If you have previously held this license and need to renew in order to keep your license up to date, apply for licensure renewal before December 31 of odd-numbered years to avoid late fees
If you currently hold this license and need to renew to keep your license up to date, apply for licensure renewal before December 31 of odd-numbered years to avoid late fees. The late renewal is from January 1 to January 31.
- To process your renewal, log in to your account on the GOALS portal.
- Follow the instructions for online renewal specific for your license.
How to File
Navigate to GOALS to register and login to the license portal >>
After renewing online, CHECK your license expiration date online to ensure the renewal was completed.
Contact
Related Resources
- Online Resource Society of American Foresters
- Online Resource Georgia Forestry Commission