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 2
Survey Document Compliance
Survey Document Compliance
Overview
Survey documents must comply with statutory requirements, professional standards, and client specifications. Understanding these requirements ensures documents are legally sufficient and professionally acceptable.
Learning Objectives
- Understand statutory document requirements
- Apply professional standards
- Meet client specifications
- Ensure completeness and accuracy
Key Concepts
Statutory Requirements
California law requires:
- Specific map content and format
- Professional certification
- Required statements and notes
- Filing and recording procedures
Record of Survey Requirements
Section 8762 content requirements:
- Title and location information
- Basis of bearings
- Monument information
- Measured and record data
- Surveyor's statement and signature
Professional Standards
Industry standards include:
- ALTA/NSPS survey standards
- Professional organization guidelines
- Agency-specific requirements
- Technical specification compliance
Quality Assurance
Ensuring compliance:
- Checklist verification
- Independent review
- Compliance tracking
- Final quality check
Key Terms
- Certification: Professional attestation of accuracy
- Recording Standards: Requirements for document filing
- Statement: Required declarations on survey documents
Practice Questions
- What content is required on a California Record of Survey?
- What certification is required on survey maps?
Based on CalTrans LS/LSIT Video Exam Preparation Course materials.