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 1
Topographic and As-Built Surveys
Topographic and As-Built Surveys
Overview
Topographic surveys capture existing ground conditions, while as-built surveys document constructed improvements. Both require systematic data collection and attention to detail.
Learning Objectives
- Plan and execute topographic surveys
- Perform as-built surveys for construction
- Document survey findings appropriately
- Deliver products meeting client needs
Key Concepts
Topographic Survey Methods
Data collection approaches:
- Total station and data collector
- GNSS positioning
- Photogrammetry and LiDAR
- Conventional leveling
- Combination methods
Feature Collection
Categories of features to collect:
- Ground shots for terrain modeling
- Breaklines and grade changes
- Structures and improvements
- Vegetation and land cover
- Utilities and infrastructure
As-Built Documentation
As-built survey requirements:
- Actual constructed locations
- Deviations from plans
- Final grades and elevations
- Utility depths and locations
- Monument positions
Data Processing
Processing collected data:
- Download and verification
- Coding and attribution
- Surface modeling
- Map/plan preparation
- Quality control checks
Key Terms
- DTM: Digital Terrain Model - ground surface representation
- Breakline: Linear feature controlling surface modeling
- TIN: Triangulated Irregular Network
Practice Questions
- What factors determine the appropriate data collection method for a topographic survey?
- What information should be documented in an as-built survey?
Based on CalTrans LS/LSIT Video Exam Preparation Course materials.