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
Boundary Surveys
Boundary Surveys
Overview
Boundary surveys determine property lines based on deed interpretation, monument search, and application of legal principles. This work requires both technical skills and understanding of property law.
Learning Objectives
- Conduct systematic boundary investigations
- Locate and evaluate monuments
- Apply boundary principles in the field
- Document findings for professional products
Key Concepts
Field Investigation Process
Systematic boundary investigation:
- Monument search based on record analysis
- Measurement of found evidence
- Evaluation of record/ground relationships
- Application of legal principles
- Corner re-establishment as needed
Monument Search
Locating survey evidence:
- Record position calculations
- Physical search techniques
- Metal detection methods
- Witness interviews
- Adjacent property evidence
Evidence Evaluation
Assessing found monuments:
- Correspondence with records
- Physical condition and stability
- Relationship to other evidence
- Consistency with overall pattern
- Documentation requirements
Corner Establishment
When corners must be set:
- Proportionate measurement where applicable
- Record distance and direction
- Agreement with adjoining evidence
- Monument specifications
- Filing requirements
Key Terms
- Original Corner: Corner from original survey in original position
- Lost Corner: Position cannot be determined from evidence
- Obliterated Corner: Evidence destroyed but position determinable
Practice Questions
- What is the proper sequence for a boundary field investigation?
- How should a surveyor document found monuments?