PS Exam Requirements by State
The Principles and Practice of Surveying (PS) exam is the final national exam on the path to becoming a licensed Professional Land Surveyor.
Experience requirements vary significantly by state. Click your state for details.
Principles and Practice of Surveying (PS) Exam — Quick Facts
Select Your State
All States & Territories (51)
What You Need to Know About the PS Exam
Prerequisites
- Must have passed the FS exam first
- Most states require 4 years of qualifying surveying experience
- Experience must be progressive and under a licensed PLS
- Some states reduce the experience requirement for ABET graduates
- Apply through your state board, not directly to NCEES
Experience Requirements Vary
- Most states: 4 years post-FS under a licensed PLS
- Some states: 2-3 years with an ABET-accredited degree
- Some states: 6-8 years with experience only (no degree)
- Experience must demonstrate increasing responsibility
- Check your specific state for exact requirements
After You Pass
- Some states grant licensure immediately upon passing the PS
- Other states require an additional state-specific exam
- You can then apply for licensure in other states via comity
- Most states require continuing education to maintain your license
States Requiring Additional Exams (49)
These states require a state-specific exam in addition to the PS:
California, Colorado, Florida, Indiana, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Oregon, Texas, Washington, Wisconsin, and others.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much experience do I need for the PS exam?
Most states require 4 years of qualifying experience under a licensed Professional Land Surveyor after passing the FS exam. Some states may reduce this to 2-3 years with an ABET-accredited degree, while others may require more experience if you lack a degree. Check your specific state board.
What counts as qualifying experience?
Qualifying experience typically includes boundary surveys, subdivision platting, topographic surveys, ALTA/NSPS surveys, construction staking, legal description writing, and other work that demonstrates progressive responsibility. The experience must be under the direct supervision of a licensed Professional Land Surveyor.
Can I take the PS exam in a different state than where I passed the FS?
Yes. Your FS exam results are recognized nationally. You can apply for the PS exam through any state board where you meet the experience requirements.
What is the PS exam passing rate?
Passing rates for the PS exam typically range from 50-70%, varying by administration. The PS exam is considered more challenging than the FS because it tests practical application of surveying principles.
Do I need to pass a state-specific exam too?
About 15 states require an additional state-specific exam covering that state's surveying laws and standards of practice. Check the state detail page to see if your state requires one.
Can I get licensed in multiple states?
Yes. Once you pass the PS exam and are licensed in one state, you can apply for licensure in other states through comity (reciprocity). Some states may still require you to pass their state-specific exam. An NCEES Record simplifies the comity process.