Land Surveyor License in New York
Quick Answer
New York land surveyors are licensed through the NYS Education Department. NCEES and state exams are required along with continuing education for renewal.
- Exam
- NCEES FS and PS Examinations, plus NY State Exam
- Timeline
- 6-8 years (education + experience + exams)
- Background Check
- Required
- Renewal
- Every Triennial
Requirements
Land Surveyor license in New York
Land Surveyor Salary in New York
Entry Level
$51,490
Median
$79,050
Experienced
$126,380
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salary data is for informational purposes only.
How to Get Licensed
Step-by-step roadmap to becoming a licensed Land Surveyor in New York.
- 1
Complete Education Requirements
Degree required
- 2
Submit Background Check
No criminal record prohibitions
- 3
Pass the Required Exam
Third-party exam required — NCEES FS and PS Examinations, plus NY State Exam
- 4
Submit Your Application
File your application with the licensing agency.
- 5
Receive Your License
Processing typically takes 6-8 years (education + experience + exams).
Land Surveyor Licensing in New York: What to Know
New York land surveyors are licensed through the NYS Education Department, State Board for Engineering, Land Surveying & Geology. Licensed land surveyors use applied mathematics and other technical skills to measure and plot dimensions of the earth's surface including natural and other structures, lengths and directions of boundary lines, and contours. Continuing education is required for license renewal. Contact the Board for specific fee and experience requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long does it take to get a Land Surveyor license in New York?
- The process typically takes 6-8 years (education + experience + exams), depending on education completion and exam scheduling.
- What exam do I need for a Land Surveyor license in New York?
- You need to pass the NCEES FS and PS Examinations, plus NY State Exam. Third-party exam required
Considering another state?
Compare Land Surveyor requirements across states.
View all states →Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 15, 2026.