How to Become a Registered Land Surveyor
Registered land surveyors can expect their occupation to be among those with a strong outlook and growing faster than most in the future, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Surveyors map and measure points on and below the earth's surface. They utilize the Global Positioning System (GPS) to identify reference points for a high degree of accuracy in their work. This career path can be physically demanding and has strict education, testing, and experience requirements, depending on the state you will be licensed and practice in.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
How to Become a Registered Land Surveyor
-
1
Decide if a career as a surveyor is right for you. Many people enjoy working outside, but this is not an environment where everyone likes to work on a daily basis. Surveyors typically spend a great deal of time on their feet and are required to walk long distances and carry heavy equipment. Travel to the job site is often needed and may require temporary relocation.
-
2
Complete educational requirements. The actual educational requirements will vary from state to state, from a high school diploma to a college degree. Even though it may not be required, a bachelor's degree in surveying or a related field from a program that is accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) is highly desired in all areas.
-
-
3
Take and pass the Fundamentals of Surveying (FS) exam. The FS exam is the first exam in the licensing process. You will want to take this exam during the end of or shortly after you complete your surveying educational program, while this information is fresh on your mind. The exam is offered in April and October of each year. Once this exam is passed, you will be a surveying intern (SI).
-
4
Obtain work experience under a licensed surveyor after you have earned the SI classification. Although this may vary by state, this is typically about a four-year internship.
-
5
Take and pass the Principles and Practice of Surveying (PS) exam. With experience in the surveying field, you are ready to take the PS Exam, the second exam in the licensing process. This exam is also offered each April and October. Once you have passed this exam, you are eligible to be licensed by your state's licensing board.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Contact the licensing board for your state to ensure you know the specific requirements in your state. The steps above are the general requirements, but they do vary slightly by state.
Resources
- Photo Credit Dan MacDonald
