Education · 1 of 5
The path
Degree, then four years under a licensed surveyor, then two national exams and a state one.
- 1
High school
Grades 11 and 12
Math above everything, especially geometry and trigonometry. Drafting, geography and any computer class help.
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Accredited degree
4 years
Most state boards now want a bachelor's degree from a surveying program accredited by ABET (formerly the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology). Some states still allow an associate degree or straight experience, so read your own board's rules before you enroll.
- 3
Fundamentals of Surveying exam
One day
110 questions, about five and a half hours at a testing center, $225. Most people take it in their final year of college while the math is fresh.
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Work under a licensed surveyor
4 years
Most states require four years of progressive, verifiable experience. You will run crews, do research in the deeds office and learn how boundaries are actually decided.
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Principles and Practice of Surveying exam, plus a state exam
After your four years
The national exam tests whether you can practice competently. Nearly every state adds its own test on local property law.