New Jersey
New Jersey land surveyors are regulated by the State Board of Professional Engineers and Land Surveyors, housed within the Division of Consumer Affairs. The license title is Professional Land Surveyor (PLS). Candidates must hold a 4-year degree from a board-approved program, pass the NCEES FS and PS exams, and complete 3 years of professional experience under a licensed PLS. New Jersey requires 24 PDH per biennial period with up to 8 PDH carryover.
Everything on one card.
The fields most candidates ask us about, pulled directly from the board's published requirements.
Step-by-step to PLS.
A linear view of the typical path — from education to license. Some steps overlap in practice.
- 01
Meet Education Requirements
New Jersey requires a 4-year degree in land surveying from a board-approved institution. Applicants must be of good character and reputation and must speak and write English. The board evaluates curricula for approval.
- 02
Pass the FS Exam and Obtain SIT
Available nowThe NCEES Fundamentals of Surveying exam (Part F) is computer-based, offered year-round at Pearson VUE testing centers. 110 questions, 6 hours. Upon passing, you may obtain a Surveyor-in-Training (SIT) certificate from the Board.
- 03
Gain 3 Years of Professional Experience
Accumulate 3 years of professional experience in the United States under the regular and effective supervision of a licensed PLS. Experience must demonstrate increased responsibility and technical expertise over time. Pre-graduation experience may be evaluated case-by-case. A master's or doctorate in land surveying may substitute for 1 year. Five references required, three from licensed PLSs in responsible charge.
- 04
Pass the PS Exam
Available nowThe NCEES Principles and Practice of Surveying exam (Part P) is computer-based, offered year-round at Pearson VUE testing centers. You must submit proof of passage from NCEES or via your NCEES Record.
- 05
Apply for Licensure
Submit your completed application to the Board with all required documentation including education transcripts, experience verification, exam passage proof, and five references. The application fee and licensing process are managed through the Division of Consumer Affairs.
After you're licensed.
What this state requires to keep your license active.
- Total Hours
- 24 PDH per biennial renewal period
- Ethics Requirement
- Not specified separately — verify with board
- Carryover
- Up to 8 PDH may carry forward (12 PDH for dual PE/PLS licensees)
- Self-Study
- No limitations on online hours
- Renewal Period
- Biennial
- Pre-Approval Required?
- Not confirmed — verify with board
- Audit
- Failure to meet 24 PDH minimum may result in penalty up to $500 and inability to renew
Coming in from another state?
New Jersey offers comity licensure for PLSs licensed in other states. NCEES Records are accepted. Comity applicants must meet NJ education, experience, and examination requirements. Dual PE/PLS licensees must complete at least 27 credits total (12 each in engineering and surveying).
Verify everything yourself.
Every detail above is sourced from these documents. If the board updates, we update — usually within a week.
New Jersey's prep, when it's ready.
We'll email you when the state-specific exam prep launches — no waitlist tricks, no spam, no obligation.