Students: Getting Started in Land Surveying
Land surveying is a fast-growing career field.
According to the U.S. Department of Labor, the demand for land surveyors and technicians is projected to outpace the average growth for all occupations over the next decade.
Step-by-Step Path to Becoming a Land Surveyor in Indiana
Pursuing a career as a licensed professional land surveyor in Indiana starts with the right education, qualifications, and support.
1. Get the Right Education
One of the goals of ISPLS is to keep the public, especially young people, informed about surveying education opportunities in and around the State of Indiana.
ISPLS/IPLS Foundation Scholarships
The Indiana Society of Professional Land Surveyors (ISPLS) and the Indiana Professional Land Surveyors Foundation (IPLSF) provide financial assistance through scholarships to students pursuing a career in land surveying or seeking to become Professional Surveyors.
ISPLS and IPLSF currently offer four scholarships. Additionally, ISPLS has regional chapters across Indiana that often award scholarships.
2. Gain Work Experience
After school, you’ll need practical experience under a licensed Professional Surveyor (PS).
- Indiana requires at least 4 years of experience if you have a bachelor’s degree in surveying.
- If you have a related degree, you may need more experience (up to 6 years), depending on coursework.
Title 865 IAC 1-2-1 outlines the minimum education and experience requirements to qualify for admission to the professional surveyor examination.
Looking for jobs in the surveying industry? Check out ISPLS’s career center, featuring exclusive opportunities in land surveying.
3. Pass Required Exams
You’ll need to pass one major exam from the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES):
- Principles and Practice of Surveying (PS) – Taken after gaining enough work experience.
You’ll also need to pass the Indiana State-Specific Exam administered by the Indiana Professional Licensing Agency (IPLA).
4. Apply for Licensure
Once you’ve passed the exams and gained experience, apply through the Indiana State Board of Registration for Land Surveyors to become a Licensed Professional Surveyor (PS).
Visit the Indiana Professional Licensing Agency for more information on licensing requirements and instructions on how to apply.
Free ISPLS Membership Instructions
ISPLS offers students pursuing a career in surveying the opportunity to connect with surveyors across the state through networking opportunities, education, and resources to help them start their careers. Join ISPLS today!