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 7
Code of Professional Conduct
Code of Professional Conduct
Overview
Professional conduct is governed by ethical standards and regulatory requirements. Maintaining high ethical standards protects the public and upholds the profession's reputation.
Learning Objectives
- Understand professional conduct requirements
- Apply ethical principles in practice
- Recognize and avoid ethical violations
- Maintain professional standards
Key Concepts
Ethical Principles
Core professional values:
- Competence and diligence
- Integrity and honesty
- Objectivity and fairness
- Public protection
- Professional courtesy
Regulatory Requirements
California conduct standards:
- Board for Professional Engineers rules
- Business and Professions Code
- Disciplinary procedures
- Continuing education
Common Ethical Issues
Situations requiring ethical judgment:
- Conflicts of interest
- Competence limitations
- Confidentiality obligations
- Fee and compensation issues
- Colleague relations
Maintaining Standards
Practical implementation:
- Know the requirements
- Seek guidance when uncertain
- Document ethical decisions
- Report violations appropriately
Key Terms
- Ethics: Moral principles governing conduct
- Conflict of Interest: Situation affecting objectivity
- Disciplinary Action: Board sanction for violations
Practice Questions
- What are the core ethical principles for professional land surveyors?
- How should a surveyor handle a potential conflict of interest?
Based on CalTrans LS/LSIT Video Exam Preparation Course materials.