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 8
Construction Reports
Construction Reports
Overview
Construction surveys generate various reports documenting staking, as-built conditions, and compliance verification. Clear, accurate reporting supports construction quality and record-keeping.
Learning Objectives
- Prepare construction staking documentation
- Create as-built survey reports
- Document compliance verification
- Maintain project records
Key Concepts
Staking Documentation
Recording layout work:
- Stake location information
- Cut/fill data
- Reference points
- Date and conditions
- Changes from design
As-Built Reports
Documenting construction:
- Actual constructed locations
- Deviations from plans
- Quantity calculations
- Certification requirements
Compliance Reporting
Verification documentation:
- Comparison with requirements
- Pass/fail determinations
- Corrective action needs
- Certification statements
Project Records
Maintaining documentation:
- Field notes
- Calculation files
- Communication records
- Final deliverables
- Retention requirements
Key Terms
- Cut Sheet: Document showing cut/fill at stakes
- As-Built: Survey of constructed conditions
- Compliance Certification: Statement of meeting requirements
Practice Questions
- What information should be included in construction staking documentation?
- What elements should an as-built survey report contain?