CA PLS Exam Preparation
Comprehensive preparation for the California Professional Land Surveyor (PLS) exam. Based on the January 2025 Test Plan with 6 modules and 57 topics. Content adapted from CalTrans LS/LSIT Video Exam Preparation Course materials.
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Module 1: Business Practices and Project Management
1Explaining Land Surveying to the Public2Proposals and Contracts3Procuring Surveying Services4Directing Personnel5Coordinating with Third Parties6Project Standards7Project Execution Planning8Monument Preservation9Managing a Surveying Business10Subdivision Map Act11Professional Land Surveyors Act12Conflicts of Interest
Module 2: Research, Project Planning and Preparation
Module 3: Field Operations and Investigations
Module 4: Analysis and Evaluation
33Analyzing Field Evidence and Documentation34Evaluating Historic vs. Measured Accuracy35Spatial Relationships of Maps and Data36Boundary Location Conflicts37Title Conflicts38Survey Adjustments (Least Squares, Error Analysis)39Quality Assurance and Control40Reconciling Deeds with Field Evidence41Technology Limitations in Practice
Module 5: Mapping and Document Preparation
Lesson 3
Procuring Surveying Services
Procuring Surveying Services
Overview
Understanding how surveying services are procured helps surveyors respond effectively to various client types and procurement methods. Public agencies and private clients have different requirements and processes.
Learning Objectives
- Understand public agency procurement requirements
- Respond to Requests for Proposals (RFPs) and Qualifications (RFQs)
- Comply with California contracting requirements
- Navigate selection processes effectively
Key Concepts
Public Agency Procurement
Government projects typically require:
- Competitive selection processes
- Qualification-based selection (Brooks Act for federal)
- Small business and disadvantaged business requirements
- Prevailing wage compliance
- Insurance and bonding requirements
RFP/RFQ Response Best Practices
Effective responses include:
- Direct answers to all required questions
- Relevant project experience
- Qualified personnel resumes
- Realistic schedules and costs
- Understanding of project-specific challenges
California-Specific Requirements
California government contracts may require:
- Professional engineering liability insurance
- Workers' compensation insurance
- Business license verification
- DIR registration for public works
- Compliance with prevailing wage laws
Key Terms
- RFP: Request for Proposal - solicitation for detailed proposals with pricing
- RFQ: Request for Qualifications - solicitation based on qualifications
- Prevailing Wage: Minimum wage rates required for public works
Practice Questions
- What is the difference between qualification-based selection and low-bid selection?
- What insurance requirements are typically required for California public agency contracts?