LicenseCompass

Professional Land Surveyor License in Pennsylvania

Quick Answer

Pennsylvania licenses Professional Land Surveyors through the PE/LS/Geologists Board. Continuing education is required. PLSs may perform engineering land surveys only.

Exam
NCEES FS and PS Examinations
Timeline
6-8 years (education + experience + exams)
Background Check
Required
Renewal
Every Biennial

Requirements

Professional Land Surveyor license in Pennsylvania

gold
Education
Degree required
Exam
Third-party exam required
Background Check
No criminal record prohibitions
Continuing Education
Continuing education required to maintain license
Veterans Benefits
N/A - Not displayed

Licensing Agency

Department of State~Bureau of Professional & Occupational Affairs~Professional Engineer; Land Surveyors; & Geologists Board

Professional Land Surveyor Salary in Pennsylvania

Entry Level

$48,110

Median

$73,680

Experienced

$111,130

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salary data is for informational purposes only.

How to Get Licensed

Step-by-step roadmap to becoming a licensed Professional Land Surveyor in Pennsylvania.

  1. 1

    Complete Education Requirements

    Degree required

  2. 2

    Submit Background Check

    No criminal record prohibitions

  3. 3

    Pass the Required Exam

    Third-party exam required — NCEES FS and PS Examinations

  4. 4

    Submit Your Application

    File your application with the licensing agency.

  5. 5

    Receive Your License

    Processing typically takes 6-8 years (education + experience + exams).

Professional Land Surveyor Licensing in Pennsylvania: What to Know

Pennsylvania Professional Land Surveyors are licensed through the Professional Engineer, Land Surveyors, & Geologists Board under the Bureau of Professional & Occupational Affairs. A professional land surveyor may perform engineering land surveys but may not practice any other branch of engineering. Continuing education is required to maintain the license. Contact the Board for specific fee and application details.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a Professional Land Surveyor license in Pennsylvania?
The process typically takes 6-8 years (education + experience + exams), depending on education completion and exam scheduling.
What exam do I need for a Professional Land Surveyor license in Pennsylvania?
You need to pass the NCEES FS and PS Examinations. Third-party exam required

Considering another state?

Compare Professional Land Surveyor requirements across states.

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Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 15, 2026.