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.
Progress0/57
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 4
State Law Recommendations
State Law Recommendations
Overview
Surveyors advise clients on compliance with California laws affecting land surveying and development. This includes the Professional Land Surveyors Act, Subdivision Map Act, and related statutes.
Learning Objectives
- Advise on surveying law compliance
- Explain statutory requirements to clients
- Identify when legal counsel is needed
- Support regulatory compliance
Key Concepts
Professional Land Surveyors Act
Client guidance on:
- Licensed surveyor requirements
- Record of Survey triggers
- Corner Record filing
- Professional standards
Subdivision Map Act
Advising on compliance:
- Map type requirements
- Exemption applicability
- Processing requirements
- Monument obligations
Other Regulatory Requirements
Additional compliance areas:
- Environmental regulations
- Building and grading codes
- Easement requirements
- Recording requirements
Legal Referrals
Knowing when to recommend counsel:
- Title issues
- Boundary disputes
- Contract matters
- Liability questions
Key Terms
- Compliance: Meeting legal requirements
- Exemption: Exception from standard requirements
- Due Diligence: Required investigation before action
Practice Questions
- What situations require a surveyor to recommend legal consultation?
- How should a surveyor explain statutory requirements to clients?