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Frequently Asked Questions
about the Surveying Licensing Exams


What is the format of the FS exam?

The Fundamentals of Land Surveying (FS) exam is an 8-hour test consisting of 170 multiple-choice problems. There are two sessions, morning and afternoon, each with 85 problems.

The ONLY reference material that may be used during the FS exam is a small reference handbook that is provided at the exam site.


What are the FS exam dates?

The FS exam is given on the same date (and always on a Saturday) in every state. The forthcoming dates are:

April 17, 2010
October 30, 2010
April 9, 2011
October 29, 2011
April 14, 2012
October 27, 2012


What is the format of the PS exam?

The NCCES-developed Principles and Practice of Surveying (PS) exam is 6 hours long. Many states administer this exam in conjunction with a state-specific exam. Contact your to determine the exam format in your state.

The PS exam contains 100 multiple-choice questions. It is administered in two parts: 67 questions in the morning session (4 hours) and 33 in the afternoon session (2 hours). The exam is open-book, with few limits on the number or type of books that may be used as references. Be sure to check with your to verify what is and is not allowed into the exam.


What are the PS exam dates?

The PS exam is given on the same date (and always on a Friday) in every state. The forthcoming dates are:

April 16, 2010
October 29, 2010
April 8, 2011
October 28, 2011
April 13, 2012
October 26, 2012


How far ahead do I need to register for the FS and PS exams?

This varies significantly by state, ranging from 45 to more than 180 days before the exam date. Contact your state board for the exact application deadline that applies to you. Your board will also tell you what locations are available for taking the exam.


What units of measurement are used on the FS and PS exams?

The FS and PS exams use US customary units.


What kind of calculator can I bring into the FS and PS exams?

Your calculator should be battery-powered, silent, and nonprinting, and it must not have word-processing capabilities. Actually, you should bring two calculators of the same model in case one fails.

Some states have restrictions on what models of calculators are allowed into the exam, and a few restrict the use of ROM cards in calculators. It doesn't hurt to contact your state board to get definitive information.


If I don't know an answer on the FS exam, should I guess or leave it blank?

Guess! No points are subtracted for incorrect answers.


What are the passing rates for the most recent surveying exams?

The passing rates for the October 2008 exams are:

Exam 1st Timers Repeats
FS 67% 35%
PS 63% 22%

Where can I find study materials for the FS and PS exams?

Reference manuals, sample exams, and other materials to aid your preparation are located in the PPI catalog.


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