What is the path to becoming a licensed land surveyor?

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I'm a survey technician thinking about getting licensed. What are the general steps?

Asked October 25, 2026

AI answer · not yet verified by a surveyor

Paths vary by state, but generally include [1]:

  1. Education: a degree in surveying or geomatics, or a related degree with surveying coursework. Some states allow experience in place of a degree.
  2. Fundamentals of Surveying (FS) exam: often taken near the end of school. Passing it usually earns surveyor-in-training (SIT) or LSIT status.
  3. Experience: several years under a licensed surveyor, with responsible charge growing over time.
  4. Principles and Practice of Surveying (PS) exam.
  5. State-specific exam on local law and practice, in many states.
  6. Application to the state board, with references.

Tips:

  • Keep a detailed experience log from day one.
  • Join your state society. Many offer mentoring and exam prep [1].
  • Check your state's board for exact rules [2].

Sources

  1. Professional Land Surveying Organizations
  2. Is Your Surveyor Licensed?

General information only. Answers here are not a survey or legal advice, and no one here can tell you where your boundary is. For your property, hire a licensed land surveyor in your state; for legal questions, a real-estate attorney.

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