Skip to main content
USLG
HomeStatesProfessionsAbout

Arborist License in North Dakota

Your complete 2026 guide to obtaining and maintaining your Arborist license in ND. Covers fees, exams, documents, and renewal.

Application Fee

$200

Processing Time

3-5 Weeks

Exam Required

ISA Certified Arborist Exam

Difficulty Level

Medium

Step-by-Step: How to Get Licensed

Follow these 5 steps to obtain your Arborist license in North Dakota.

Step 1·Complete Education

Finish an approved Arborist training program in North Dakota.

Step 2·Gather Documents

Collect all 5 required documents for your ND application.

Step 3·Pass the Exam

Score passing marks on the ISA Certified Arborist Exam.

Step 4·Submit Application

File your application with the North Dakota licensing board and pay the $200 fee.

Step 5·Receive License

Processing takes 3-5 weeks in ND. Practice legally once approved.

How to Apply

If you are looking to start your career as a Arborist in North Dakota, the licensing process begins with education. ND mandates specific coursework before you can sit for the ISA Certified Arborist Exam. Upon passing the exam, you can proceed to file your application with the appropriate North Dakota regulatory board.

Requirements

North Dakota has specific requirements for Arborist licensure that applicants must fulfill. You must be at least 18 years old and hold a valid government-issued identification. Educational requirements include completing an accredited program relevant to care for and maintain trees in urban and rural settings. A clean background check is mandatory in ND, and you must demonstrate good moral character. The ISA Certified Arborist Exam must be passed with a minimum score set by the North Dakota board.

Fees & Costs

The initial application fee for a Arborist license in North Dakota is approximately $200. This fee covers the processing of your application and initial license issuance. ND also charges an examination fee which is typically paid directly to the testing provider. Late application submissions in North Dakota may incur additional penalties of up to $50.

License Fee Calculator — Arborist in North Dakota

Base License Fee$200
Estimated Total$200

Renewal Process

Maintaining your Arborist license in North Dakota requires timely renewal every 3 years. ND sets the renewal fee at $125. You must complete all required continuing education hours and submit proof to the North Dakota board. Failure to renew on time may result in license suspension and reinstatement fees in ND.

License Expiry Calculator — Arborist in ND

Enter your license issue date to see when renewal is due. North Dakota requires renewal every 3 years.

Additional Information

North Dakota takes professional licensing seriously, and the Arborist field is no exception. The state board in ND regularly updates its requirements to align with industry standards and protect public safety. As a licensed Arborist in North Dakota, you will be expected to maintain high ethical standards and stay current with developments in your field. The ND licensing board provides resources and support to help professionals meet their obligations.

Document Checklist — Arborist

0 of 5 documents ready

Frequently Asked Questions

License Reciprocity: Can I Use My North Dakota Arborist License in Other States?

Reciprocity varies by state. Always verify with the destination state's licensing board before practicing.

Destination StateReciprocityNotes
Alaska (AK) FullAK accepts ND Arborist license via reciprocity agreement.
Alabama (AL) FullAL accepts ND Arborist license via reciprocity agreement.
Arizona (AZ) NoneAZ does not recognize ND Arborist license. Full re-application required.
Arkansas (AR) PartialAR requires additional exam or paperwork for ND license holders.
Colorado (CO) PartialCO requires additional exam or paperwork for ND license holders.
Delaware (DE) FullDE accepts ND Arborist license via reciprocity agreement.
California (CA) FullCA accepts ND Arborist license via reciprocity agreement.
Florida (FL) PartialFL requires additional exam or paperwork for ND license holders.

Where to File Locally in North Dakota

Visit a licensing department office near you for in-person assistance.

Bismarck

600 E Boulevard Ave, Bismarck, ND 58505

(701) 328-9660

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Fargo

200 3rd St N, Fargo, ND 58102

(701) 241-1310

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Grand Forks

255 N 4th St, Grand Forks, ND 58203

(701) 746-2600

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Minot

515 2nd Ave SW, Minot, ND 58701

(701) 857-4750

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Mandan

205 2nd Ave NW, Mandan, ND 58554

(701) 667-3200

Mon-Fri 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Official North Dakota Resources

Always verify requirements directly with the North Dakota state board. Regulations may change.

Can't find what you're looking for?

Our research team is here to help. Reach out and we'll get you the licensing information you need.

Contact Our Team

Disclaimer

US License Guide is a private informational resource and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to any federal, state, or local government agency. The information provided on this website is for general guidance purposes only and should not be considered legal or professional advice. Licensing requirements, fees, and procedures may change without notice. Always verify current requirements directly with your state's official licensing board before making any decisions. Use of this site does not create any professional-client relationship.