The mission of the board is to safeguard the health, welfare and property of Oregonians with respect to geologic practice in Oregon. The board accomplishes this primarily through the registration of geologists. They also review complaints about geologist conduct and practice or unlicensed geologic practice. They also have authority to impose civil penalties, suspend, revoke or not renew registrations or seek other resolutions as appropriate. In addition, the board works to inform the public, government agencies and others about the practice of geology.

The board sets examination, education and experience standards for geologist registration and for a specialty certification in engineering geology, evaluates applications for examination and 

registration based on these standards and administers national and engineering geology specialty examinations. Geologists licensed in other states or jurisdictions can apply for registration in Oregon but must meet all of the board’s standards.

Approximately 956 geologists are registered to practice in Oregon with about 208 also holding certification in engineering geology. The board is composed of four Oregon registered geologists, the state geologist (i.e., the Director of the Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries) and a public member. The board is served by two staff, an executive director and registration specialist.​