Florida

Florida requires a minimum 4-year college degree for all pathways. The primary paths are: (1) BS in surveying and mapping from an ABET-accredited program; (2) BS in a related field (e.g., civil engineering, geomatics) plus completion of 25 semester hours of surveying and mapping coursework from a board-approved college or university. Official transcripts must be submitted directly from the institution. Foreign graduates must have transcripts evaluated by a Professional Evaluation Service for degree equivalency.

The NCEES Fundamentals of Surveying exam is computer-based, offered year-round at Pearson VUE testing centers. 110 questions, 6 hours. All candidates must be approved by the Board prior to taking any examination. Testing fees are paid directly to NCEES after board approval. Passing the FS qualifies you as a Surveyor and Mapper Intern (SMI).

Accumulate the required supervised experience as a subordinate to a licensed PSM in the active practice of surveying and mapping. With a surveying degree: 4 years required. With a non-surveying BS + 25 semester hours: 6 years required, with 5 years in responsible charge. 'Responsible charge' means direct control and personal supervision — it excludes routine roles such as rodperson, instrument person, or ordinary draftsperson (per §472.005(6), F.S.).

The NCEES Principles and Practice of Surveying exam is computer-based, offered year-round at Pearson VUE testing centers. Board approval is required before sitting for the exam. The Board evaluates your experience as substantiated by licensed PSMs who have verified your work.

The Florida State Specific exam covers Florida surveying laws, administrative rules, professional ethics, and state-specific practice standards. This exam is required for both examination and endorsement applicants. Topics include Chapter 472 F.S., Florida Administrative Code, and standards of practice.

Submit your completed application to FDACS with all required documentation including transcripts, experience verification forms, exam verifications, and applicable fees. The initial application and examination fee cannot exceed $125 plus the actual per-applicant cost of purchasing the examination from NCEES. Apply through FDACS.