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What is the European Geologist professional title? The European Geologist title is a professional title created by the European Federation of Geologists (www.eurogeologists.eu) which recognises the ability to deliver a high quality of services within the practice of geology. This certification held by a professional geologist means that the holder has achieved suitable academic training and a level of professional experience, skill and competence to perform tasks within their professional practice. It also means that the geologist undertakes continuing education and training, demonstrating a personal commitment to stay up to date and informed within the sphere of their professional work.
Why do I need the title? Professional titles have become important in demonstrating the suitability of a professional to provide geological services. The professional title provides a quality mark to demonstrate to clients, regulators and the general public that the individual is competent to provide geological advice, and allows employers to offer competitive commercial services. To adapt to the current and future challenges within and beyond the geo-political framework of the European Union, it is necessary that geologists achieve, and can demonstrate, a high degree of professional experience to be able to respond to the demands of society in practicing their profession. Who issues the title? The European Geologist (EurGeol) title is awarded by the European Federation of Geologists (EFG). The Federation represents the geological profession across Europe and has members from the professional associations of 27 European countries. According to 2023 statistics, over 1,800 EurGeol titles have been awarded, with nearly 1,300 EurGeols currently active. The process of vetting applications for the title is carried out for EFG by its Licensed Bodies, the International Licensed Body (ILB). National Licensed Bodies (NLBs) operating in Ireland, Spain, Switzerland, United Kingdom and Italy receive applications from their own members. Applicants from other countries apply to the International Licensed Body, which is supported by the EFG Brussels office. Recommendations for election from the Licensed Bodies are passed to the EFG Council for ratification. A register of title holders is maintained by the EFG on its website. Where is the title recognised? The training and experience underlying the title are being harmonised. This will mean that the title will be recognisable in all European countries and so act as a passport to professional practice in Europe, thereby encouraging free movement of professionals. There are reciprocity recognition agreements being set with the American Institute of Professional Geologists (AIPG) and the Canadian Council of Professional Geologists (CCPG). On a practical level, European Geologists with an additional level of knowledge are recognised by the mineral reporting authorities in Australia, Canada, South Africa and London as professionals accredited to sign reports on mineral resources within their area of expertise and in the valuation of mining companies quoted on the Stock Exchanges. More information: https://eurogeologists.eu/global-network/ How do I apply to the EurGeol Title under the ILB? For members of National Associations that does not have a National Licensed Body (NLB), applying for the European Geologist (EurGeol) title through the International Licensed Body (ILB) involves a streamlined process. Applicants need to register on the EurGeol platform as an EurGeol Application member type and complete their profile, including creating a public URL that serves as their professional identity. They must then secure sponsorship from two existing EurGeol title holders who will provide a supporting Sponsor Letter. The next step is to prepare a detailed Professional Practice Report and gather all required supporting documents as outlined in the EFG Regulation E1. Finally, the complete application is submitted to the National Vetting Committee (NVC) via the designated online submission portal. This process is supported by detailed guidance and tutorial videos available on the EFG’s website to help applicants navigate the steps efficiently. How do I maintain my professional title under the ILB? In order to maintain your professional title, you must pay the annual subscription fees to your Licensed Body, accept the EFG Code of Ethics, and provide to your Licensed Body a record of Continuing Professional Development (CPD) activities carried out in the previous year. E .g. for EurGeols under the International Licensed Body, must complete the following steps:
Failure of carrying out these obligations will result in your exclusion of the public EurGeol directory. Once a return is provided to the Licensed Body, the EurGeol should assume that it has been received and is satisfactory unless there is correspondence indicating the contrary. A small number of returns are randomly selected for audit and in these cases the Licensed Body might ask for further supporting information. Interested to watch our step-by-step tutorials on ILB Application and Renewal? This ILB EurGeol Guidelines playlist, also embedded below, offers step-by-step tutorials designed to assist geologists with the EurGeol Title application and annual renewal processes via the International Licensed Body. It includes detailed guides on registration, profile updates, and submission procedures, as well as comprehensive tutorials on completing the annual renewal, CPD reporting, and certification creation. Whether you're applying for the first time or updating your existing credentials, these videos provide all the necessary information to navigate the process smoothly.
How do I apply and manage my Title under the NLBs? The exact application and renewal process varies from NLB to NLB. Please contact the relevant NLB, using this contact page, for up-to-date information. Alternatively, you can visit the NLB's EurGeol Application support pages:
How do I know if my Title application/management is managed by the International Licenced Body (ILB), or the National Licence Body? To determine if your European Geologist (EurGeol) Title application and management is handled by the International Licensed Body (ILB) or a National Licensed Body (NLB), you need to consider your membership with national geological associations.
What does Continuing Professional Development mean? Continuing Professional Development (CPD) is the systematic maintenance, improvement and broadening of knowledge and skills, and the development of personal qualities necessary for the execution of professional and technical duties throughout a practitioner’s working life. European Geologists have a responsibility to their profession to maintain and develop their abilities as practitioners by demonstrating a commitment to Continuing Professional Development. It is mandatory for all European Geologists to:
Each European Geologist is responsible for submitting their CPD record to the Licensed Body that is responsible for the maintenance of their title. What are the requirements for European Geologists, managed by the ILB, in terms of CPD reporting? European Geologists in employment: should record a minimum of 60 points in each year. Up to 30 points may be carried over from the previous year. At least 15 points should be recorded annually under Professional Practice, along with some points under at least two other activity types. European Geologists not in employment, sick, handicapped, or on parental leave: should record a minimum of 40 points in each year. Up to 20 points may be carried over from the previous year. No activity type is mandatory, but points should be recorded under at least two activity types each year. You may apply to this allowance in the membership area, under the Quicklinks , CPD allowances menu option. Once logged in, you may already start recording CPD activities here. Example of a International Licensed Body Eurgeol Application (in 2022) and renewal process (between 2023 and 2025) 
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